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Chief Operating Officer - Law Firm

How to Manage a Small Law FirmFt Lauderdale, FL

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Overview

Schedule
Full-time
Career level
Executive
Remote
On-site
Benefits
Career Development

Job Description

Chief Operating Officer — Confidential Search, Established Fort Lauderdale, FL Law Firm

Compensation: $150,000+ Base (Negotiable) + Performance Bonus Tied to Firm GrowthLocation: Fort Lauderdale, FL — This is a full-time, in-office position

A respected, multi-practice Fort Lauderdale, FL law firm — led by an attorney who has been AV-Rated for over a decade by fellow lawyers and judges, and repeatedly named a Top Lawyer by the South Florida Legal Guide — is seeking a strategic, high-trust Chief Operating Officer to help drive the firm's continued growth.

This is a confidential search on behalf of a firm known for deep bench strength across criminal law, civil litigation, corporate work, real estate, and family law, with leadership actively engaged in the broader legal and civic community.

About the Opportunity

This is a high-trust leadership position for someone who can bring structure, sound judgment, and forward momentum to a growing practice. The role includes a direct reporting line to firm ownership, with high-level access to firm financials and strategic decision-making. The firm's owner places strong value on the credibility and polish a well-credentialed operator brings — both internally with attorneys and staff, and externally with clients and partners.

Compensation & Bonus Structure

  • Base salary $150,000+, negotiable based on experience
  • Performance-based bonus tied directly to firm growth — the more you help scale the firm, the greater your earning potential
  • This role rewards ownership-minded leadership, not just task execution

What You'll Do

  • Oversee daily operations across the firm's practice areas
  • Partner directly with firm leadership on strategic planning and growth initiatives
  • Manage budgeting, financial oversight, and operational reporting
  • Lead HR functions, staffing strategy, and firm culture initiatives
  • Improve workflows, technology adoption, and case management systems
  • Serve as a trusted right hand to firm leadership, with significant autonomy and decision-making authority

What We're Looking For

  • Bachelor's degree required; MBA, JD, or advanced degree strongly preferred
  • Prior title such as COO, Director of Operations, Practice Manager, or similar leadership role
  • Must have experience in a professional services organization; law firm experience strongly preferred
  • Strong financial acumen and budget management skills
  • Excellent judgment, discretion, and communication skills — this role requires the highest level of trust and confidentiality
  • Ability to build and lead high-performing teams
  • Must be local to or willing to relocate to the Fort Lauderdale area — this role is fully in-office

Why This Role

This is more than an operations job — it's a high-trust seat at the table with a firm that has a well-earned reputation for excellence. With bonus potential directly tied to growth, the right candidate has real upside as the firm scales.

This is a confidential search. Firm identity will be disclosed to qualified candidates upon initial conversation.

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FAQs About Chief Operating Officer - Law Firm Jobs at How to Manage a Small Law Firm

What is the work location for this position at How to Manage a Small Law Firm?
This job at How to Manage a Small Law Firm is located in Ft Lauderdale, FL, according to the details provided by the employer. Some roles may also include multiple work locations depending on the requirement.
What pay range can candidates expect for this role at How to Manage a Small Law Firm?
Employer has not shared pay details for this role.
What employment applies to this position at How to Manage a Small Law Firm?
How to Manage a Small Law Firm lists this role as a Full-time position.
What experience level is required for this role at How to Manage a Small Law Firm?
How to Manage a Small Law Firm is looking for a candidate with "Executive" experience level.
What benefits are offered by How to Manage a Small Law Firm for this role?
How to Manage a Small Law Firm offers Career Development for this position. Actual benefits may vary depending on the employer's policies and employment terms.
What is the process to apply for this position at How to Manage a Small Law Firm?
You can apply for this role at How to Manage a Small Law Firm either through Sonara's automated application system, which helps you submit applications 10X faster with minimal effort, or by applying manually using the direct link on the job page.