Head of Knowledge Management

Stephenson Harwood is an international law firm dedicating the highest calibre of legal talent to overcome the most complex issues. It delivers pragmatic, expert advice that is set squarely in the real world. It has over 150 partners and over 900 lawyers and staff worldwide offering deep local insight and the capability to provide a seamless international service. The firm's staff provide essential professional backing for the firm's legal teams. Their expertise and professional care is crucial to the firm's success. See www.shlegal.com for more information.

Following a review of their approach to Knowledge Management in the context of the changing needs of their clients and business the firm has created this new position of Head of Knowledge Management. The role will take significant responsibility for developing and leading the firm's approach to knowledge management, contributing actively to the firm's wider business efficiency and professional training agendas. The Head of Knowledge Management will report to the firm's Chief Operating Officer but will also work closely with the firm's client-facing legal teams in each practice group and office. A key member of the firm's Heads of Support group, the Head of Knowledge Management will work with and support other Heads on cross discipline projects and challenges.

This is a great and rare opportunity to take on a greenfield Knowledge Management role at a firm of such size and prominence. Representative responsibilities include:

• Developing, communicating and implementing a global knowledge strategy in line with the firm's wider business strategy and objectives
• Leading the central knowledge management and information services team to ensure a high level of professional expertise and service is provided to all internal clients in all offices.
• Encouraging and supporting the development of a deeper culture of knowledge creation and sharing across the firm, working with knowledge management partners, PSLs, Learning and Development and Business Development teams.
• Designing and implementing effective knowledge management systems, processes and procedures, including effective use of appropriate technology, to continuously develop and improve the way information and knowledge are captured, handled, shared and re-used.
• Supporting the development of client facing knowledge initiatives and, working within the context of a wider team, support the development of new and innovative approaches to efficient legal service delivery.
• Working with PSLs, knowledge management partners and others across the business to ensure that appropriate electronic and hard-copy information sources are available as needed and that their continuing usage and cost effectiveness is monitored.

Suitable candidates could already perform a number one Knowledge role or could be looking to "step-up" into such a post. They will be able to match the following criteria:

• Significant relevant experience in knowledge management in an international law firms or other similar professional services businesses, either leading a team or at a senior level. A legal qualification and experience working in commercial law are preferable but not essential.
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally and to build credibility at all levels in the business. Able to articulate the case for change and the benefits of it and lead, persuade and influence partners.
• Excellent writing skills, including the ability to research issues, gather information and evidence and formulate and document conclusions and recommendations clearly and succinctly.
• Highly motivated, proactive and energetic - a self-starter who can think and act independently. Delivery focused and resilient; able to deal effectively with and overcome set-backs.
• Creative and innovative approach to challenges; organised and able to work at high and detailed levels as required; prepared to be 'sleeves rolled up' when this is needed.
• Strong leadership and people management skills - able to manage multiple projects and activities concurrently, keeping each on track.
• Highly collaborative and team orientated - able to both manage a team and work well within a wider team.

This position is being handled exclusively by Totum on behalf of Stephenson Harwood. All direct and third party CVs sent to Stephenson Harwood will be forwarded to Totum so they can manage this assignment effectively.

To apply for his role please forward your CV with details of your current remuneration to Gary Jones or Tim Skipper at Totum Partners - or

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