Business Improvement Project Manager

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The Business Improvement Project Manager is pivotal in managing a portfolio of projects aimed at enhancing overall simplicity, efficiency and ease of working throughout the firm. They will be responsible for planning and leading initiatives designed to simplify processes, diminish administrative burdens on fee earners and partners, remove "friction" between functions and improve internal service delivery.

About CMS

CMS is a Future Facing firm with more than 70 offices in over 40 countries and 5,000+ lawyers worldwide. We combine deep local market understanding with a global perspective. We are passionate about building strong relationships with our clients, our people, and the communities we work in.

We take a bold, dynamic, and agile approach to ensure our clients are able to face the future with confidence. We are driven by technology and readily embrace the possibilities it opens up for developing new and better ways of working. Our aim is to inspire, impact and support our clients and our people, helping them to maximize their potential and thrive.

About the Role

Working collaboratively with Heads of Functions, Practice Group Managers, Partners, Fee Earners, Secretaries and various stakeholders the Project Manager is responsible for defining initiatives, setting objectives, establishing detailed project plans and time frames, and quantifying benefits. Once defined, they will track progress against the plan, removing impediments, facilitating workshops and meetings, engaging stakeholders, managing dependencies, and escalating issues when necessary.
Consider market knowledge, why the role would be interesting to candidates, technical language/details, selling points of the CMS team. Progression. Clients/client exposure. Quality of team/colleagues/partners you will work with. Learning/development opportunities.

They will also be responsible for providing comprehensive monthly progress reports to Senior Management and the Board.

Key Responsibilities

Manage a diverse portfolio of improvement projects aligned with the legal firm's strategic objectives. Collaborate closely with Heads of Functions, Practice Group Managers, and stakeholders to define project scope, objectives, time frames, and anticipated benefits. Monitor and report on the progress, risks, and issues of each project. Provide support and guidance to project teams and sponsors, ensuring alignment with the overarching strategic goals of the firm.

• Facilitate workshops and meetings to identify and implement solutions. Utilize tools such as process maps, root cause analysis, and stakeholder maps to engage effectively and communicate progress.

• Actively address barriers, resolve conflicts, and ensure projects adhere to the agreed methodology and governance framework.

• Navigate challenges using tools such as issue logs, escalation paths, and negotiation skills.

• Identify and share best practices and lessons learned across the portfolio and the firm.

• Foster a culture of continuous improvement by leveraging successful strategies and insights.

• Establish and enforce robust process governance for business improvement initiatives, creating standardised procedures, clear documentation, and comprehensive protocols.

About You

Skills and Qualifications

Over five years of hands-on experience in managing or delivering improvement projects, preferably within the legal industry or a professional services environment.

• A demonstrable track record of successfully delivering tangible results and benefits.

• Demonstrable strong project and change management skills, ensuring a structured and strategic approach to driving adoption and change within the organization.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate with individuals at all levels. The ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and implement solutions that deliver tangible value and benefits, using data and evidence to support decision-making.

• Highly motivated and self-directed, capable of working both independently and collaboratively within a fast-paced and dynamic environment.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel, PowerPoint, and Word. Familiarity with other project management tools and software, such as MS Project, Visio, SharePoint, etc.

• Comprehensive knowledge of project management methodologies and tools, such as Agile, Lean, Six Sigma, and understand how to apply them in different contexts and situations.

• Knowledge of the legal industry and its processes, challenges, and opportunities.

• Proven ability to lead and collaborate with cross-functional teams, fostering a culture of cooperation and shared goals.

• Proficient in resolving conflicts and overcoming challenges, employing negotiation skills to ensure successful project outcomes.

• A creative, curious and innovative mindset, consistently seeking new approaches to problem-solving and process improvement.

• Expertise in effectively managing and cultivating relationships with stakeholders at various levels, ensuring alignment with project objectives.

• Adaptability in navigating evolving project requirements and dynamically changing environments, ensuring successful project delivery.

• Proficient in identifying and mitigating project risks, ensuring proactive measures are in place to address potential challenges.

• Understanding of financial principles related to project management, including budgeting, cost tracking, and financial reporting.

• Possession of relevant certifications in project management, change management, or related fields, showcasing a commitment to professional development.

• Demonstrated commitment to continuous learning, staying updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and evolving best practices.

• Prioritization of a customer-centric approach in project management, ensuring that project outcomes align with the needs and expectations of internal and external stakeholders.

Equal Opportunities

At CMS, a next-generation mindset is woven into all we do. We're diverse, supportive and inclusive, embracing our corporate social responsibility and creating a culture of sustainability in which every one of our people, whatever their background, can maximise their potential and thrive. For further information about CMS' diversity initiatives and programmes, please view the Diversity & Inclusion pages on our website.

Please apply online or contact a member of the Talent Acquisition team if you have any questions. For information regarding our competitive range of benefits please visit our Rewards & Benefits page on our website.

Please note that CMS have a preferred agency panel in place. Only applications submitted via the portal at the point of instruction will be accepted.

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