Director, Student Legal Services

Summary

Responsible for the operational management and administrative direction of Student Legal Services with broad responsibility. This position directs the long-range strategic planning, operations, and/or administrative activities of Student Legal Services. Oversees complex student legal projects and provides advice and counsel on a broad range of legal matters. Analyzes the effectiveness of and establishes future direction for functional policies and programs. The primary duty is the management of other managers, professionals, and support staff*.  This position reports to a Vice President, Assistant/Associate Vice President, Associate Dean, or other appropriate administrator. This position may not report to another Director.

Examples of Work

Job functions are specific duties that would be included in the essential functions of the job description.  These functions are not all-inclusive nor do they cover the full extent of the duties performed.

• Overseas attorneys who provides legal counsel, advice, and representation to student clients on a broad range of legal topics including landlord-tenant, criminal, consumer, creditor/debtor/collection, employment, and public benefits law.
• Translates strategic and tactical business plans into Student Legal Services operational plans. Has latitude to make operational decisions within broadly defined parameters and decision require a high level of judgement.  Deviations from university policies generally requires higher managerial approval.
• Establishes the direction, goals, implementation strategy and policies of the department or unit within an administrative area.
• Directs the efforts of and supervises departmental staff, sets performance standards and accountability. Has the authority to propose, uphold, modify or revoke notices of proposed dismissals or suspensions.
• Formulates and administers the annual operating budget. With appropriate approval, may procure agreements for materials or services.
• Advises senior administrators in implementing programs, new initiatives, and special projects.
• Responsible for ensuring the all programs, activities, and series comply with university, state, and federal regulations.
• Responsible for developing and maintaining partnerships throughout the University. Oversees communications, promotions, and public relations for department in order to achieve departmental goals and objectives.
• Serves on various university, division and departmental committees and represents the department at various state and national associations.
• Responsible for maintaining an inclusive working environment that is free from discrimination and harassment.

Education and Experience

J.D. or LL.B. and six years of relevant experience.

Licensure and Certification

Must be a member of the Florida Bar or become a member within twelve months of employment.

Supervision

This position does have supervisory responsibility.

*The Director title may be used when a key contributor does not have the management responsibilities for this class but leads a function with significant impact to campus operations or external relations.

Competencies

• Transparency*
• Talent Selection*
• Strategic Thinking*
• Role Model*
• Resolve*
• Problem Solving*
• Political Savvy*
• Judgment*
• Integrity*
• Humility*
• Financial Management*
• Fair and Legal Management*
• Facilitative Decision Making*
• Execution*
• Emotional Intelligence*
• Communication*
• Collaboration*
• Coaching/Mentoring*
• Advocacy*
• Accountability*

To see common career pathways for each position at the University of Florida please visit the Career Paths section of the UFHR website.