Director of IT / CIO

Hawkins Parnell & Young, LLP is seeking a technology leader to serve as Chief Information Officer (CIO) or Director of Information Technology, depending on candidate experience. This role is responsible for the strategic direction, oversight, and continuous improvement of the firm’s IT infrastructure, enterprise applications, cybersecurity posture, and service delivery. We’re looking for a hands-on leader who can operate at both strategic and tactical levels—capable of shaping long-term technology vision while also troubleshooting day-to-day law firm operational issues when needed.

The ideal candidate will bring strong experience from the legal industry managing IT operations across distributed environments, a demonstrated ability to lead high-impact projects, and a firm grasp of best practices in technology governance, risk management, and legal tech enablement.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Technology Leadership

• Work with the Technology Committee, the executive leadership team, strategic partners and the Managing Partner to champion a comprehensive IT roadmap aligned with the firm’s business strategy, regulatory requirements, and client service objectives.
• Executive communications skills are key to driving the adoption of modern technologies that enhance legal operations and productivity.

Enterprise Systems & Infrastructure Management

• Oversee the performance, scalability, and security of firmwide systems including cloud platforms (Azure), on-premise infrastructure, and legal applications.
• Ensure cost-effective improvement and modernization of the firm’s technology stack.

Project Management & Systems Implementation

• Lead cross-functional technology initiatives including system upgrades, cloud migrations, and legal tech integrations (e.g., DMS, time & billing, e-discovery).
• Apply proven project management methodologies to ensure on-time, on-budget delivery.

Cybersecurity & Risk Management

• Maintain the current cybersecurity posture and policies, data privacy, and compliance practices.
• Conduct periodic risk assessments and ensure preparedness through comprehensive disaster recovery and business continuity planning.
• Work with key clients, insurance carriers, and strategic partners to support data and technology questionnaires as needed.

Technology Operations Oversight

• Manage outsourced IT services to ensure responsiveness, accountability, and measurable service levels.
• Oversee helpdesk operations and escalation procedures to support attorneys and staff.

Budgeting & Vendor Management

• Lead IT budgeting, procurement, and financial oversight, ensuring responsible cost management.
• Build and manage relationships with technology vendors and strategic service partners and SaaS providers.

Training, Change Management & Communication

• Working with the Technology Committee, promote a culture of continuous learning and digital proficiency through structured training and communications.
• Translate technical topics into accessible insights for executive and non-technical audiences.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive IT experience, including 5+ years in a leadership role ideally at the Director, VP, or CIO level.
• Prior experience in a professional services or law firm.
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft ecosystems (Azure AD, O365, hybrid infrastructure).
• Demonstrated success leading enterprise-wide projects and managing third-party providers.
• Deep understanding of legal practice technology and security/compliance standards (e.g., HIPAA, ISO, NIST frameworks).
• Experience with legal software systems including document management, time & billing, and case management tools.
• Familiarity with AI applications and emerging legal tech trends is a plus.

Key Competencies

• Enterprise-level thinking with the ability to translate vision into action
• Clear communicator with strong executive presence and influence.
• Hands-on approach to technical troubleshooting and process improvement.
• Proactive, decisive, and able to operate effectively in a fast-paced, service-driven environment.
• Strong leadership presence with a collaborative, team-first mentality.

Why Hawkins Parnell & Young?

We offer a competitive compensation package with comprehensive benefits including health coverage, parental leave, 401(k) and profit sharing, flexible spending accounts, and more. You’ll be part of a respected national law firm that values professionalism, innovation, and a supportive workplace culture.

We believe diversity makes us stronger, and we encourage all qualified candidates to apply.

Hawkins Parnell & Young is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.