Job Description

This Senior Operations Manager role is focused on the

Middle East

and our

Brand Integrated

and

Regular Contact Firms

.


The role works closely with the Managing Director (MD) to shape and deliver on business strategy in line with Executive priorities, creating a more cohesive and effective working relationship with colleagues across the regions. Active engagement with client and sector initiatives -- across all regions -- is essential to ensure strategic alignment and knowledge sharing.



A significant focus of the role will be to develop DLA Piper International's approach to managing and getting the most from its network of Brand Integrated and Regular Contactfirms, maximising strategic value and collaboration. In close collaboration with the Managing Director responsible for these, as well as key internal (partners and within business services functions) and external stakeholders

Exclusive arrangements with firms in Norway, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Portugal, and New Zealand, which deliver legal services under the DLA Piper brand, with access to the firm's global network and a range of business services and support.*


Other firms we hold relationships with and trust to provide our clients with advice in jurisdictions where the firm does not currently have offices.



Main duties and responsibilities



The Senior Operations Manager will work in close partnership with the Managing Director (MD) to support both their formal responsibilities and broader Executive duties. The role spans strategic execution, operational leadership, relationship management, and business development, with a particular focus on DLA Piper's International network.



Strategic Planning and Execution


Support the MD in delivering the Middle East's strategic objectives, ensuring alignment with the firm's global priorities Translate high-level strategic goals into actionable plans and oversee their implementation across the region Support the MD in reporting progress and outcomes to the Executive and Board Lead the development and execution of the Middle East's communication strategies, ensuring alignment with organisational goals and effective stakeholder engagement Champion change initiatives by fostering engagement and ensuring successful implementation and scalability across the region
Network and Relationship Management


Develop and manage DLA Piper International's strategy for its network of Brand Integrated and Regular Contact firms, ensuring alignment with the firm's broader market approach Support the MD and nominated relationship partners in strengthening relationships with non-integrated firms Act as a key point of contact for business services teams and external firms to support alignment and collaboration Foster and leverage relationships across the firm and within the referral network to identify and pursue business development opportunities Maintain oversight of internal and BIF-led initiatives (e.g. sector and client development), ensuring alignment with the firm's strategic direction and values
Client and Business Development


Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to drive joint client development initiatives that generate profitable referral pipelines Ensure that client and sector development plans involving non-integrated firms are strategically aligned and effectively executed Track and evaluate the impact of joint initiatives to ensure they deliver measurable value and align with client needs
Financial Oversight and Performance Monitoring


Conduct high-level financial analysis to monitor performance against budgets, identifying opportunities and mitigate risks Set and report against key performance indicators to measure progress and value creation Lead the evolution of referral tracking processes with non-integrated firms, ensuring data quality, accuracy, and actionable insights Provide regular reporting and analysis on revenue generation and other key metrics
Operational Excellence and Governance


Act as a key escalation point for complex operational issues, ensuring timely and effective resolution in collaboration with relevant stakeholders Ensure compliance with agreed terms between DLA Piper and its network firms, including quality assurance and service alignment Support the embedding of tools, processes, and efficiencies within Brand Integrated Firm agreements to enhance service delivery and operational consistency
About you


Extensive senior management experience within a legal or comparable professional services environment, with a strong understanding of operational and strategic leadership Demonstrated commercial acumen and a results-oriented mindset, with a consistent track record of delivering business value and driving sustainable growth Proven ability to lead and manage high-performing teams, fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and accountable culture Strong relationship-building capabilities, with the ability to credibly influence and engage senior stakeholders across diverse geographies and functions Expertise in designing, developing and executing strategic initiatives within complex, international, and matrix-managed environments, particularly in partnership structures Proven success in delivering operational excellence and scalable solutions across global, multi-jurisdictional settings Deep international perspective, with a curious and globally minded approach to business challenges and opportunities A dynamic and proactive self-starter, with exceptional interpersonal and communication skills and a strong client service orientation Recognised as a trusted advisor, capable of influencing a diverse group of partners and stakeholders while managing competing priorities and pressures Innovative and forward-thinking, with the courage and sensitivity to question established approaches, challenge the status quo and drive continuous improvement Strong project management capabilities, with the ability to lead complex initiatives from concept through to execution Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex ideas clearly and persuasively to varied audiences
About us



We're a global law firm helping our clients achieve their goals wherever they do business. Our pursuit of innovation has transformed our delivery of legal services. With offices in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, we deliver exceptional outcomes on cross-border projects, critical transactions and high-stakes disputes.



At DLA Piper, we understand that inclusion is not a one-size-fits-all concept. We embrace and celebrate the range of perspectives, backgrounds and experiences that each individual brings to our firm. By fostering a culture that welcomes and appreciates all aspects of our individuality, we ensure that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.



Our commitment to inclusion and positive social impact enables us to provide exceptional service to our clients and communities, while nurturing a unique and inclusive culture for all our people. We welcome the unique contribution that you will bring to our firm and actively encourage applications from all talented people - however your talent is packaged, whatever your background or circumstance and regardless of how you identify.



We are committed to being accessible and accommodating any reasonable adjustments needed throughout the recruitment process to ensure an inclusive experience for all. If you need any support or adjustments, please let us know.



Where local legislation permits, we will conduct relevant pre-engagement screening checks prior to your first day.




Job Reference


6462


Function


Business & Service Delivery


Category


Business Professionals


Location


Dubai, United Arab Emirates


London, United Kingdom