Attorney Development Manager

About the role

This exempt position is responsible for managing all aspects of firm‑wide, as well as department‑ and section‑specific attorney career development, training and programming. The role reports to the Director of Attorney Development and works closely with Department Administrative Partners, Section Chairs, Practice Group Leaders, other lawyers, firm‑wide committees, and heads of administrative departments.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage firm‑wide in‑house legal training programs and presentations, including Milestone Development Programs.
• Assist with planning, management, and logistics of section‑specific training.
• Partner with practice‑area partners to create strategic training plans, curriculum development, and sequencing for entry‑level associates, lateral hires (including patent agents, scientific advisors, and landmen).
• Design and/or deliver in‑house and third‑party legal training and professional development programs.
• Lead and facilitate firm‑wide mentoring and leadership development programs for attorneys at all levels, ensuring effective delivery, participant engagement, and alignment with development objectives.
• Manage the Attorney Development budget, monitoring expenses, forecasting costs, and allocating resources across the department.
• Facilitate attorney staffing and work allocation, aligning skills, experience, and development goals with firm and client needs.
• Partner with the Office of General Counsel and Chief Talent Officer on attorney‑related employment, compliance, and risk‑management matters.
• Oversee mid‑year and year‑end attorney evaluation cycles, including process design, communications, feedback collection, deadline management, reporting, and collaboration with department and section leadership.
• Facilitate attorney onboarding, training, and performance reviews for international offices, ensuring compliance with local requirements, firm policies, and timelines.
• Assist the Attorney Development Director with talent development and performance issues, including annual associate review cycles to promote growth, promotion, and retention.
• Serve as a resource to attorneys and identify appropriate professional development opportunities.
• Work cross‑functionally with other teams and departments.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Manage direct reports, including one or more junior team members.

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience in professional development, performance management, or practice support, preferably at a peer law firm with increasing responsibility.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, especially Excel, and generative AI tools such as Copilot and Harvey; familiarity with electronic databases like Micron and viDesktop is a plus.
• Knowledge of licensing and compliance requirements for trainees and solicitors in the United Kingdom (preferred but not required).
• Exceptional verbal and written communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and adapt flexibly.
• Strong analytical ability to grasp both big concepts and details quickly.
• Energetic, achievement‑driven orientation.
• Demonstrated ability to handle confidential matters with attention to detail.
• Proactive problem‑anticipation and independent judgment.
• Experience managing teams and direct reports (a plus).
• Proven ability to interface with attorneys, business professionals, and external vendors, gaining confidence and trust.
• Skill in building and maintaining strong professional relationships with attorneys, understanding their aspirations, strengths, and development needs while exercising discretion.
• Willingness to travel as needed.
• Bachelor’s degree and at least 5 years of relevant experience; J.D. strongly preferred.
• Coaching certification and experience practicing law are a plus.

About Haynes & Boone

Haynes & Boone is one of the largest law firms in Dallas, with a 27‑story headquarters in the Harwood District. The firm serves a broad range of practice and industry areas and is recognized in publications such as The Best Lawyers in America and Chambers USA. The firm values an inclusive workforce, a collegial environment, and a culture of respect and teamwork.