Information Governance Manager

Position Summary  

The Information Governance Manager is an innovative leader that develops and assists in the execution of strategic information governance initiatives that support all aspects of matter and information lifecycle, including but not limited to:  retention, disposition, ethical and legal compliance, privacy and security of information, information mobility and dark data/ remediation efforts.   Leads records management project initiatives consistent with firm goals and objectives to decrease risks and costs and increase efficiencies in information access and use across the Firm.  Liaisons with GTS to lead the analysis and design of systems and processes relating to lifecycle management of electronic data with emphasis on process analysis, automation, storage, records retention requirements, policy development, privacy and security controls, and records repositories.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Ensure that the program and any resulting policies, schedules and procedures are comprehensive, covering the management of information assets in all formats, including hard-copy and electronic, and meeting all applicable statutory, regulatory, ethical, and privacy requirements in each jurisdiction.  Clearly articulate relative obligations to Firm stakeholders.
  • Work collaboratively with Knowledge, GTS, General Counsel and eDiscovery teams to optimize use of available information governance technologies,  evaluation/selection of new technologies and apply governance to:
  • Document Management Systems
  • File Shares Management
  • Lit Support Data Management
  • Data Backup, Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity Planning
  • System Account Management and File Security
  • Data Import and Export
  • Data Management Systems Configuration and Processes
  • Contribute ongoing analysis and requirements gathering specific to the maintenance of the Information Governance framework (policy, standard operating procedures, and data entry rules) for the Records Management System (RMS)
  • Work with other leaders to develop and recommend to executive management strategies for improving, implementing and enforcing handling of client and administrative records at all stages of their lifecycle – including system configuration and designing imaging workflows.
  • Works with administrative staff and legal practitioners to identify business requirements and automate records management processes.
  • Coordinates legal research to determine records retention requirements.  Analyzes records retention and disposition recommendations from various legal and professional sources.
  • Develops workflow processes for final disposition of information and oversee disposition efforts, including large scale clean-up/dark data remediation projects. Develop, implement and enforce appropriate deadlines and means of document retention and disposal.
  • Leads the development of a standard for data portability of legal data with other large law firms in order to minimize resources needed to import/export legal data.
  • Creates and presents proposals, project plans, status reports, and other information in a variety of formats and styles appropriate to the audience.
  • Communicates the RIM vision and guiding principles Firm-wide in a variety of forums.
  • Provides advice and proposes solutions for complex and technical records and information management issues.
  • Works with iManage Product Manager to maximize functionality and apply information governance policy to iManage, including use of Matter Workspaces and email filing.
  • Collaborate with Information Technology personnel to develop training programs relevant to Information Governance and Management.

Knowledge and Experience

• Understands electronic records management system protocols, and the synergies between electronic and hard copy records (including email management, archiving, imaging and lifecycle management).
  • Understands various technologies available to support records and data management initiatives, and has the ability to evaluate and make recommendations for solutions to support the firm’s goals.  Includes a basic understanding of legal technology concepts, including database administration, system integration and information network architecture.
  • Experience in supporting the information lifecycle within a multi-office law firm, including a clear understanding of legal terminology, legal processes and legal records taxonomy.
  • Ability to effectively communicate within all levels of the organization.  Team-oriented approach with the ability to communicate up, down and across the organization in order to meet the Firm’s goals.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.  Must be results driven with the ability to provide creative solutions to challenging projects and situations.
  • Strong presentation and communication skills.
  • Analytical skills, critical thinking, change management and project management are required.

Education/Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree, preferred.
  • A minimum of 5 years records/data management experience with a dedicated focus on records program design and implementation.
  • Law Firm, Legal or Professional Services background is preferred.
  • Proficient in iManage WorkSite/FileSite and LegalKEY is preferred.
  • Proficient in MS Office applications.  A working knowledge of MS Project and Visio is preferred.