Description
The Research Manager for Risk Mitigation drives a dedicated team of research professionals, focusing on comprehensive public records investigations for clients and internal risk management. This role fuses hands-on investigative research with effective team leadership, quality assurance, and stakeholder collaboration. The Manager reports to the Director of Business Research and works alongside attorneys and firm leadership across various practice groups and offices to meet client goals and enhance the firm's overall risk management strategy.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Team Leadership and Management
- Oversee a team of Investigative Research Analysts and Senior Analysts, providing daily guidance, mentorship, and support for professional growth. Responsibilities include managing workload distribution, performance assessments, and cultivating a collaborative team environment through regular check-ins and identifying training opportunities.
Investigative Research and Quality Assurance
- Ensure the precision and quality of investigative outputs, such as background investigations and due diligence reports. Review and approve work products before they are delivered to stakeholders, guaranteeing thoroughness, clarity, and compliance with legal and ethical standards. Maintain proficiency in public records research, handling complex inquiries as necessary.
Client and Stakeholder Engagement
- Act as the main point of contact for attorneys and clients seeking investigative services, defining the scope of research requests, setting expectations for timelines and deliverables, and clearly communicating findings.
Process Improvement and Technology
- Identify and implement enhancements to team workflows, research methodologies, and technology tools, including adopting AI technologies, evaluating new research platforms, and optimizing standard operating procedures to boost efficiency and quality.
Compliance and Risk Management
- Ensure all investigative research activities adhere to firm policies, client guidelines, and relevant laws, including data privacy regulations. Support firm-wide risk management initiatives pertaining to lateral hires, client onboarding, and conflict processes.
ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS:
- Perform other duties and projects as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS (EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES):
Education:
- Bachelor's degree required; advanced degrees such as J.D. or M.L.S. preferred.
Experience:
- At least seven years of experience in public records research and investigative due diligence, preferably in a law firm or corporate investigation environment, with two years in a management role.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
- Expertise in public records databases, court record systems, corporate filings, and open-source research techniques.
- Capacity to synthesize complex information from varied sources into clear, well-organized reports.
- Robust understanding of legal and ethical considerations in research, including data privacy and the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
- Experience in an Am Law 100 or 200 firm preferred, along with familiarity with international research and cross-border investigations.
- Proven leadership skills to inspire and nurture a high-performing team.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with meticulous attention to detail.
- Exceptional communication abilities to convey complex information to diverse audiences.
- Client service-oriented with a commitment to delivering high-quality work.
- Highest level of integrity when managing confidential information.
- Ability to adapt to changing priorities and tight deadlines.
WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
This position is based in an office environment and offers a hybrid work model. Occasional travel may be required. The role entails regular use of office equipment, like computers and photocopiers.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Sedentary work involving minimal physical exertion, typically requiring prolonged sitting. Some walking and standing may be necessary to complete job duties.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
The salary for this role ranges from $115,000 to $160,000, influenced by factors such as experience, education, location, and market conditions. Candidates are usually not offered compensation at the maximum of this range upon hiring.
DISCLAIMER
The above description is intended to summarize the essential functions and qualifications for this position but is not exhaustive. Fox Rothschild LLP may modify the job description as necessary. Employment is at-will, and employees must be able to perform all essential functions with or without accommodation. This firm provides equal employment opportunities irrespective of race, religion, gender, or other legally protected statuses.