Warner Norcross + Judd
Chief Information Officer (CIO)
Warner Norcross + Judd is seeking a Chief Information Officer (CIO) to join the team in Grand Rapids. The CIO is a key member of the firm’s administrative leadership team, responsible for the strategic planning, development, and secure implementation of technology across the organization. This role ensures that IT infrastructure, systems, and data management practices support legal operations, client service delivery, and regulatory compliance.
The CIO will drive innovation, enhance cybersecurity, and align technology investments with the firm’s business goals while leading an information security team of 15+ members.
Responsibilities
Lead the deployment, monitoring, maintenance, development, upgrade, and support of all IT systems, including servers, PCs, laptops, operating systems, telecommunication platforms, software applications, and peripherals.
Develop and execute a comprehensive, firmwide IT strategy aligned with firm objectives, ensuring scalability, security, and efficiency.
Oversee systems development, integration of new technologies, and enhancement of existing systems.
Oversee the creation and implementation of standard operating procedures, information systems policies, and best practices, including those related to architecture, security, disaster recovery, standards, and purchasing.
Provide written protocols and guidance to IT staff and end‑users and oversee firm member training in new and existing technologies.
Provide strategic leadership and hands‑on management of the IT team, fostering professional growth, ensuring operational excellence, and aligning team efforts with the firm’s technology vision and business objectives.
Strategically and efficiently direct and prioritize the workflow of the IS team, with a high level of focus on customer service and user experience.
Provide expertise and support during system upgrades, installations, conversions, and maintenance.
Participate in privacy and compliance initiatives.
Negotiate and administer vendor, outsourcing, and consultant contracts and service agreements.
Maintain comprehensive documentation, including system manuals, license agreements, and upgrade records.
Manage financial aspects of the IT department, including budgeting, purchasing, and vendor negotiations.
Evaluate and implement emerging technologies to improve legal workflows and client service.
Collaborate effectively with other departments, committees, and practice groups to align technology initiatives with firm‑wide goals.
Regularly and effectively communicate with firm members, including firm leadership and partners, on the status of the firm’s technology initiatives.
Foster a culture of innovation by continuously monitoring emerging technologies (including AI), evaluating their potential impact, and championing strategic adoption to enhance firm efficiency, client service, and competitive advantage.
Support the firm’s overall mission and follow all standards, policies, procedures, and confidentiality guidelines.
The above list is not intended to be all inclusive but provides a general framework for the position. Other related responsibilities will arise from time to time.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field.
10+ years of progressive IT leadership experience, preferably in a law firm or professional services environment.
Proven deep and broad expertise in IT strategy, cybersecurity, infrastructure, and legal technology.
Excellent communication, leadership, and project management skills.
Essential Physical Demands
Mobile and stationary throughout the workday, able to transport 25 pounds, and able to operate a computer and other business equipment found in the office.
Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and build consensus at all levels.
Deep understanding of professional services operations, ideally in a law firm setting.
High degree of discretion, integrity, and sound judgment.
Self‑aware, collaborative, approachable, inclusive, respectful, and receptive to feedback and diverse perspectives.
Able to prioritize multiple projects, work under tight deadlines, and handle changing priorities.
A regulatory and risk management‑focused mindset.
Customer‑focused.
Superior judgment and integrity when working with highly confidential information.
Benefits
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
Firm‑provided life insurance and disability coverage
401(k) with employer contribution or match depending on plan design
Generous PTO and leave policies
Firm holidays
Remote work flexibility
Wellness program
Employee assistance program
Culture Warner’s cultural motto is “Fun, Pride + Profit...in that Order”. The firm emphasizes teamwork, a lock‑step compensation model, DEI engagement, and community outreach. The culture supports a balanced personal and professional lifestyle and a 94% attorney retention rate.
EEO Statement Warner Norcross + Judd LLP is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in our workplaces. We are committed to building a firm that reflects the diversity of the clients and communities we serve. We can foster inclusion and equity by moving beyond barriers and rejecting stereotypes based on gender, race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and veteran status. The result is a high‑performing team of professionals providing excellent service to our clients.
How to Apply To apply, visit WNJ.com and navigate to the Careers section, then select Staff Openings. Click Add to Apply List and then Apply to create a profile and continue with your application.
Closing Statement Warner hires top talent at every point in our organization. We are seeking dedicated professionals with diverse backgrounds who strive to support the firm and its goals. Our collegial culture attracts people with diverse skills and backgrounds who are dedicated to teamwork and client service.
Location: Grand Rapids, MI
Salary: $200,000.00 – $250,000.00
Seniority level: Executive
Employment type: Full‑time
Job function: Information Technology
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The CIO will drive innovation, enhance cybersecurity, and align technology investments with the firm’s business goals while leading an information security team of 15+ members.
Responsibilities
Lead the deployment, monitoring, maintenance, development, upgrade, and support of all IT systems, including servers, PCs, laptops, operating systems, telecommunication platforms, software applications, and peripherals.
Develop and execute a comprehensive, firmwide IT strategy aligned with firm objectives, ensuring scalability, security, and efficiency.
Oversee systems development, integration of new technologies, and enhancement of existing systems.
Oversee the creation and implementation of standard operating procedures, information systems policies, and best practices, including those related to architecture, security, disaster recovery, standards, and purchasing.
Provide written protocols and guidance to IT staff and end‑users and oversee firm member training in new and existing technologies.
Provide strategic leadership and hands‑on management of the IT team, fostering professional growth, ensuring operational excellence, and aligning team efforts with the firm’s technology vision and business objectives.
Strategically and efficiently direct and prioritize the workflow of the IS team, with a high level of focus on customer service and user experience.
Provide expertise and support during system upgrades, installations, conversions, and maintenance.
Participate in privacy and compliance initiatives.
Negotiate and administer vendor, outsourcing, and consultant contracts and service agreements.
Maintain comprehensive documentation, including system manuals, license agreements, and upgrade records.
Manage financial aspects of the IT department, including budgeting, purchasing, and vendor negotiations.
Evaluate and implement emerging technologies to improve legal workflows and client service.
Collaborate effectively with other departments, committees, and practice groups to align technology initiatives with firm‑wide goals.
Regularly and effectively communicate with firm members, including firm leadership and partners, on the status of the firm’s technology initiatives.
Foster a culture of innovation by continuously monitoring emerging technologies (including AI), evaluating their potential impact, and championing strategic adoption to enhance firm efficiency, client service, and competitive advantage.
Support the firm’s overall mission and follow all standards, policies, procedures, and confidentiality guidelines.
The above list is not intended to be all inclusive but provides a general framework for the position. Other related responsibilities will arise from time to time.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field.
10+ years of progressive IT leadership experience, preferably in a law firm or professional services environment.
Proven deep and broad expertise in IT strategy, cybersecurity, infrastructure, and legal technology.
Excellent communication, leadership, and project management skills.
Essential Physical Demands
Mobile and stationary throughout the workday, able to transport 25 pounds, and able to operate a computer and other business equipment found in the office.
Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and build consensus at all levels.
Deep understanding of professional services operations, ideally in a law firm setting.
High degree of discretion, integrity, and sound judgment.
Self‑aware, collaborative, approachable, inclusive, respectful, and receptive to feedback and diverse perspectives.
Able to prioritize multiple projects, work under tight deadlines, and handle changing priorities.
A regulatory and risk management‑focused mindset.
Customer‑focused.
Superior judgment and integrity when working with highly confidential information.
Benefits
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
Firm‑provided life insurance and disability coverage
401(k) with employer contribution or match depending on plan design
Generous PTO and leave policies
Firm holidays
Remote work flexibility
Wellness program
Employee assistance program
Culture Warner’s cultural motto is “Fun, Pride + Profit...in that Order”. The firm emphasizes teamwork, a lock‑step compensation model, DEI engagement, and community outreach. The culture supports a balanced personal and professional lifestyle and a 94% attorney retention rate.
EEO Statement Warner Norcross + Judd LLP is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in our workplaces. We are committed to building a firm that reflects the diversity of the clients and communities we serve. We can foster inclusion and equity by moving beyond barriers and rejecting stereotypes based on gender, race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and veteran status. The result is a high‑performing team of professionals providing excellent service to our clients.
How to Apply To apply, visit WNJ.com and navigate to the Careers section, then select Staff Openings. Click Add to Apply List and then Apply to create a profile and continue with your application.
Closing Statement Warner hires top talent at every point in our organization. We are seeking dedicated professionals with diverse backgrounds who strive to support the firm and its goals. Our collegial culture attracts people with diverse skills and backgrounds who are dedicated to teamwork and client service.
Location: Grand Rapids, MI
Salary: $200,000.00 – $250,000.00
Seniority level: Executive
Employment type: Full‑time
Job function: Information Technology
#J-18808-Ljbffr