www.clearygottlieb.com

Operations Manager

We are seeking an Operations Manager to lead the day-to-day operations of our Brussels office and manage our Operations team, reporting functionally to the Director of Operations - EME.

The Operations Manager is responsible for the management and day-to-day operations of the Brussels office including functioning of the Operations (reception and travel services, hospitality, office services, facilities, events) team and plays an integral role to ensure high quality service delivery, with focus upon operational efficiency, project and workflow delivery. This role requires an individual who is comfortable in a fast-paced environment and who is agile at juggling multiple priorities.

Core Functional Responsibilities

Service Delivery

  • Oversee day-to-day operations of the Brussels office including reception, travel services, hospitality, facilities, and events management, ensuring high-quality service delivery and operational efficiency.
  • Manage annual budget preparation and financial objectives for operations departments in coordination with Global Controller and Director of Operations - EME, including vendor contract negotiations and procurement.
  • Develop and implement office policies, procedures and standards in partnership with local and global Human Resources, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations and maintaining appropriate insurance coverage.
  • Plan and supervise internal and external firm events in coordination with Business Development and Human Resources functions, with particular focus on important client meetings, ensuring the highest service standards whilst managing budgeted expenses.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for all operations-related matters, managing relationships with vendors, service providers, landlord and internal stakeholders, and coordinating facilities and building projects. Liaise with the Secretarial Services Manager to ensure Operations and Secretarial Services collaborate effectively and deliver the best service to the Firm.
  • Drive sustainable best practices to reduce waste, control costs and enhance personnel well-being, whilst collaborating with functional managers locally and globally and the operations committee partner(s).

People Management

  • Ensure appropriate supervision of the Operations team members and act as the primary point of contact for any work-related queries, concerns or issues, whilst ensuring compliance with local regulations and procedures.
  • Participate in recruitment processes for new hires and ensure proper cover arrangements are in place, managing absences, holidays and flexible work rotas for direct reports.
  • Run regular local committee and team meetings, including agenda preparation, and participate in global and regional meetings of the Firm.

Team Development

  • Provide ongoing feedback to all direct reports and manage year-end and mid-year review and remuneration processes, including collecting feedback from legal and professional staff and running appraisal meetings.
  • Ensure proper induction, training and smooth integration of new team members, actively participating in the development of operations resources through delegations, accountability and soft skills training.
  • Identify and manage performance-related issues in a timely and effective manner.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree and 5 to 10 years of office management experience or facilities operations in a legal or professional services environment.
  • Experience in people management, small and large scale project management, and management of suppliers and contractors.
  • Knowledge of local legislation and best practice on operations, including events, facilities management and health and safety requirements.
  • Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills with ability to interact and communicate effectively with internal and external clients and stakeholders at all levels.
  • Strong organisational and project planning skills; ability to prioritise and manage conflicting projects and tasks under time constraints, delegate effectively and exercise sound judgement.
  • Proactive, forward-thinking and autonomous with excellent attention to detail, strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, and capacity to identify efficiencies and drive continuous improvement.
  • Proven performance management capabilities including monitoring workflows, service levels and delivering timely feedback, with flexibility and a positive team-oriented attitude.
  • Fluent in English and French and/or Dutch.
  • Level 2 Prevention Advisor certificate is desirable (or willingness to undertake the necessary training (cost covered)).

If you are looking for a position in an international environment where collegiality, integrity, excellence, passion and going the extra mile are the core values, then please send your cover letter and CV to BruAdminRecruit@cgsh.com.