Managing Director, IS Operations and Strategy

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For Business Professionals, Winston & Strawn presents an exciting opportunity to be a part of a leading global law firm. With our commitment to excellence, diversity, a collaborative work environment, and an emphasis on professional growth, Winston offers a platform for individuals seeking to advance their careers in a dynamic and rewarding environment. Winston is known for its collaborative and collegial culture.

We believe teamwork is an essential component in providing high-quality legal services and we value the talents and skills of our entire business professional team.

The Managing Director, IS Operations and Strategy is a strategic leadership role responsible for managing and supporting the firm's IS team's operational responsibilities and delivery of Tier 1 services. This role is responsible for overseeing and directing the department's budget, contract management, and the firm's service desk function (Tier 1 service delivery). This individual will be a key driver in operationalizing the firm's strategy through IS, delivering value and innovation across the firm's legal practices, ensuring best-in-class Tier 1 support for lawyers and business professionals, and managing the department efficiently and within budget.

The Managing Director, IS Operations and Strategy will report directly to the Chief Information Officer (CIO) and will work closely with firm executive leadership, IS and administrative leadership, and practice group leadership to identify opportunities, develop and implement strategic initiatives, and ensure the effective provisioning of and access to best-in-class Tier 1 support and innovative technology solutions across the firm.

• Develop, own and execute a strategic vision for the firm's Tier 1 user support services, ensuring alignment with overall firm goals.
• Responsible for day‑to‑day Service Desk operations, ensuring timely resolution of incidents and requests.
• Monitor and report on KPIs, SLAs and service performance metrics; continuously identify avenues for improved service and innovation in delivery of service.
• Lead user support automation and self‑service initiatives to improve efficiency and reduce ticket volume and time to resolution.
• Ensure integration of Service Desk with other IT operations and support functions.
• Serve as an executive thought leader in service delivery, representing the firm in industry discussions and client engagements on the future of legal services.
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement across all technology and client service teams.

• Develop and implement procurement policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Own and lead strategic sourcing initiatives to achieve cost savings and supplier performance improvements.
• Manage vendor selection, contract negotiation, and supplier relationship management.
• Oversee technology contract lifecycle management.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and internal controls.
• Oversee annual budgeting process and long‑term financial planning for IT and technology functions across administrative and legal departments.
• Monitor and report on budget performance, variances, and forecasts.
• Collaborate with department heads to align budgets with strategic priorities.
• Identify opportunities for cost optimization and resource allocation efficiency.
• Work with IT and business units to maintain a roadmap for currency and innovative use of new platforms and methodologies, and to plan and budget for same.

• Provide strategic direction, mentorship, and performance management to the Tier 1 and IT Operations teams.
• Build and maintain high‑performing teams, ensuring appropriate staffing, training, and professional development.
• Promote collaboration and knowledge sharing across teams and with other departments.

• Serve as a trusted advisor to firm executive leadership, administrative leadership, and practice group leadership on technical services and support.
• Collaborate with attorneys and business professionals to understand their needs and challenges and to identify…