Knowledge & Innovation Program Manager
Ashurst Perkins Coie · Madison, WI · 1 wk ago
Information Technology$138k–$219k/yrFull-time
Essential Functions
- Partner with legal teams to identify opportunities to integrate AI into client workstreams.
- Audit the relevant AI needs and opportunities, define and implement a plan to meet those needs, and establish mechanisms for regular review of the plan.
- Translate business and legal needs into AI solution requirements; facilitate proof-of-concept development.
- Design and deploy scalable AI tools and workflows in collaboration with K&I, data, e-discovery and other technology teams.
- Ensure AI solutions align with the firm’s governance, ethics, and risk standards for responsible AI.
- Lead end-to-end delivery of AI-enabled client projects from concept through implementation.
- Capture feedback for continuous improvement of AI workflows and processes.
- Develop frameworks to track AI solution performance, including time saved, cost impact, and quality metrics.
- Maintain a portfolio dashboard highlighting adoption, client outcomes, and return on innovation.
- Coordinate across practice groups, pricing, technology, and K&I teams to align priorities and resources.
- Serve as a strategic advisor to client relationship teams on how AI solutions can be positioned as value-added differentiators.
- Create client-facing materials and outcome reports that demonstrate measurable value from AI initiatives.
- Facilitate knowledge sharing and education sessions to keep client teams informed about emerging AI capabilities.
- Develop and lead engaging presentations with the client and client teams as needed.
- Respond to client surveys and other requests for information related to AI, in collaboration with marketing, client relationship and K&I teams.
- Partner with Learning & Development to upskill lawyers and staff in AI literacy and practical application.
- Build awareness and adoption programs that integrate AI into daily legal workflows.
- Promote a culture of experimentation, measurement, and continuous improvement across client teams.
- Perform other duties, as assigned.
Specific Skills
- Demonstrated experience in process improvement through the strategic application of AI or other technologies.
- Strong understanding of the legal industry, service delivery models, the economics of law firm operations and legal technology trends.
- Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills, capable of engaging with both technical and non-technical audiences.
- Strong leadership skills, excellent project management skills, attention to detail, and the ability to meet tight deadlines.
- Effective interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust and productive relationships across the firm.
- Ability to analyze a problem/project quickly, make decisions accurately, and develop creative solutions.
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to exercise independent judgment and self-direct; identify and secure resources to meet competing demands; and quickly learn new skills and technologies and apply existing knowledge to new problems.
- Receptiveness to feedback and coaching; growth mindset.
- Fluency in standard MS Office applications and ability to quickly master new collaboration and similar software and tools.
- Knowledge of other Microsoft apps, including Power Apps, Power BI, and SharePoint is a plus.
Education, Licenses, Certifications, And Experience
- Bachelor’s degree required; JD or other advanced degree (MBA, or MS in Data/Technology field) a plus.
- 5-plus years of experience in legal operations, innovation, consulting, or technology program management (experience in a law firm or legal service organization strongly preferred).
- Demonstrated experience designing or managing AI or automation solutions within professional services or technology-driven environments (legal services preferred).
- Familiarity with AI tools (e.g., LLMs, document automation, workflow orchestration) and data analytics concepts.
- Familiarity with legal-specific AI applications is a plus.
- Successful track record in client service.
Benefits
- 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
- Family care benefits
Compensation Range
- Colorado: $138,450 to $218,880 annually
- Illinois: $146,110 to $231,010 annually
- Washington state: $146,040 to $230,890 annually
- Washington, D.C.: $157,720 to $249,360 annually