Perkins Coie is searching for a Knowledge & Innovation Program Manager who will play a key role in advancing how the firm leverages artificial intelligence to enhance the delivery of legal services to key clients. This role bridges legal practice business operations and technology to design implement and measure AI-powered solutions that improve efficiency quality and client value.

The successful candidate will combine expertise in AI solution engineering business process analysis and program management to identify opportunities where AI can create measurable improvements in client outcomes.

As a member of the Knowledge & Innovation (K&I) team the K&I Program Manager may be called upon to contribute to other K&I and Technology Department efforts.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

AI Strategy & Solution Design

• Partner with legal teams to identify opportunities to integrate AI into client workstreams.
• Assess 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 and 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 firms governance ethics and risk standards for responsible AI.

Program Management & Execution

• 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 (ROI).
• Coordinate across practice groups pricing technology and K&I teams to align priorities and resources.

Client Engagement & Reporting

• Serve as a strategic advisor to client relationship teams on how AI solutions can be positioned as value-add 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.
• Participate in client conversations about the use and impact of AI technologies on legal services delivery.
• Respond to client surveys and other requests for information related to AI in collaboration with marketing client relationship and K&I teams.

Change Management & Enablement

• 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.
• Be present at work during regularly scheduled working hours and as needed in the position consistent with the Firms attendance expectations.

SPECIFIC SKILLS PREFERRED

• 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.
• Ability to identify and secure resources to meet competing demands.
• Ability to quickly learn new skills and technologies and apply existing knowledge to new problems.
• Receptiveness to feedback and coaching with a 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

• Bachelors degree required; JD or other advanced degree (MBA or MS in Data/Technology field) a plus.
• 5 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.

At Perkins Coie we look for self-motivated individuals dedicated to providing value and superior service and who have a high degree of integrity and enthusiasm for their work. We have created a company culture based on collaboration devotion to serving our clients and mutual respect. Perkins Coie is committed to advancing diversity and inclusion both within the firm and throughout our collective communities. Work with one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For and receive great health insurance tuition reimbursement and paid sabbaticals.

This position is eligible for an 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 and family care benefits. More information regarding benefits and programs may be found here.

Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records that reside in Los Angeles San Diego and San Francisco counties will be considered for employment in accordance with the applicable Fair Chance Ordinance and the California Fair Chance Act.

This position may be filled in the following location(s). The listed compensation range reflects the typical pay for this role though it is rare for new hires to receive an offer at the top of the range. Actual compensation may vary depending on experience skills market conditions and internal equity.

San Francisco Bay Area compensation range: $171520 to $271170 annually

Colorado compensation range: $134380 to $212460 annually

Illinois compensation range: $141820 to $224220 annually

Los Angeles compensation range: $156490 to $247420 annually

San Diego compensation range: $154510 to $244280 annually

New York compensation range: $155930 to $246520 annually

Washington state compensation range: $141750 to $224110 annually

Washington D.C. compensation range: $153090 to $242040 annually

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