Docketing Director

Perkins Coie is searching for a Docketing Director who oversees the firm's docketing professionals, docketing systems, and related projects, ensuring that adequate staff, processes and procedures are in place so that deadlines tracked for the firm and its clients are met. Working closely with firm administrative and practice group leadership, this individual will assist in the development of docketing policies and procedures that meet applicable professional responsibility, statute and rule requirements, as well as business needs. This position also provides strategic leadership and direction in the implementation and development of systems, processes and procedures that optimize efficiency and accuracy in the provision of docketing services.

• Oversee and develop a cohesive and skilled team of 25+ docketing professionals who provide all business, litigation and intellectual property docket-related services for the firm. Strategically direct and oversee workforce planning, staffing decisions, team compensation and promotions.
• Monitor and assess all firm docketing systems, processes and procedures with the goal of maximizing efficiency, accuracy and cost-savings and minimizing errors that could negatively impact clients and the firm. Propose strategies and implementation methods to enhance or refine firm docketing systems, processes and procedures, including identifying and analyzing technologies, trends, and best practices across the profession that will help meet such goals. Work closely with the firm's technology and project management teams to oversee the implementation of any docketing-related projects and initiatives.
• Serve as subject matter expert and collaborator to firm administrative and practice group leadership in the development and regular review of firm service standards, policies and procedures with respect to docketing. Oversee updates to the firm's docketing policy.
• Serve as the main point of contact and subject matter expert for lawyers and other firm business professionals on issue resolution and queries relating to policy, procedure, best practices and use of the docketing systems, escalating unusual or sensitive issues as appropriate based on established protocols and mandatory reporting policies. Liaise regularly with the practice group and administrative management to ensure docketing needs are serviced effectively.
• Assist with the development of departmental budgets, with a focus on identifying priorities, controlling costs and using resources efficiently. Oversee all docketing-related expenses.
• Oversee the development and implementation of regular, ongoing training protocol for all docketing professionals. Oversee creation and maintenance of all docketing-related training resources. Implement and monitor quality control procedures to ensure accuracy in docketing entries and compliance with legal and ethical requirements and firm policies and procedures.
• Maintain in-depth working knowledge of the entire docketing team's processes, procedures, and technical environments in order to provide the expected level of support and troubleshoot emergent issues.
• Oversee relationships with third party providers. Work with firm's technology team to ensure docketing systems are functioning properly and implement technical efficiencies.
• Provide specialized firmwide docket reporting support to firm and practice group management as requested.
• Maintain membership and relationships within industry professional groups and associations that promote ongoing education regarding docketing deadlines, practices and procedures, and docketing systems.

• Must be analytical, strategic and practical. Demonstrated ability to effectively lead and develop a large team. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, and present information in a professional, concise and timely manner. Demonstrated ability to compile, review, filter, and synthesize data and information. Ability to establish effective working relationships throughout operational groups. Extensive experience in strategic planning and policy development. Demonstrated ability to exhibit judgment and flexibility in problem solving to make decisions or recommendations. Demonstrated ability to lead projects and manage third party vendor relationships.
• Advanced understanding of business, litigation, trademark and patent docketing practices and procedures.
• Proficiency with calendaring and docketing software, preferably CompuLaw, Pattsy Wave, and FoundationIP.
• Must remain informed and educated on current USPTO, state court and federal court rules and requirements.

• Experience with data analytics and AI tools, including advanced experience with Microsoft Excel.
• Experience with data visualization tools, including Microsoft Power BI and Denodo.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent required; advanced degree, such as Master of Business Administration or similar, preferred.
• 10+ years of supervisory or management experience, with a minimum of 3 years of senior-level management experience.
• Leadership experience within a large law firm or similar professional services environment.
• 5+ years of legal docketing experience within a large law firm or similar professional services environment.
• Docketing experience in multiple areas of law.

At Perkins Coie, we look for self-motivated individuals dedicated to providing value and superior service and who have a high degree of integrity and enthusiasm for their work. We have created a company culture based on collaboration, devotion to serving our clients, and mutual respect. Perkins Coie is committed to advancing diversity and inclusion both within the firm and throughout our collective communities. Work with one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For and receive great health insurance, tuition reimbursement, and paid sabbaticals.

This position is eligible for an annual discretionary bonus, 401(k) plan, medical, dental, and vision insurance, accrued paid time off plan starting at 20 days annually, personal medical and parental leave, up to 10 paid holidays, and family care benefits. More information regarding benefits and programs may be found here.

This position may be filled in the following location(s). The listed compensation range reflects the typical pay for this role, though it is rare for new hires to receive an offer at the top of the range. Actual compensation may vary depending on experience, skills, market conditions, and internal equity.

Colorado compensation range: $134,380 to $212,460 annually

Illinois compensation range: $141,820 to $224,220 annually

Washington state compensation range: $141,750 to $224,110 annually

Washington, D.C., compensation range: $153,090 to $242,040 annually