Increasing the visibility and influence of legal operations within corporate leadership, or the C-suite, is a critical task for those in the field. In navigating this typically challenging endeavor, legal professionals must strive to demonstrate the potential and value of legal operations.
“We have to show them the art of the possible—what this role is and how it can deliver value,” argues Mary O’Carroll, co-founder of the Corporate Legal Operations Consortium (CLOC). However, winning over the C-suite requires a strategic approach, understanding the mindset of business-focused executives, and effectively communicating the direct impact of legal operations on the company’s bottom line.
At its core, the role of legal operations extends beyond mere legal compliance. It is about putting in place efficient processes, orchestrating cross-functional efforts, managing legal resources effectively, and meticulously benchmarking all these activities for performance improvement.
If correctly demonstrated, these functions can substantially contribute to organizations’ competitiveness and efficiency, thus commanding the attention of top-tier executives. Further insights into the role of legal operations and the journey from blank stares to boardrooms can be found here.
Armed with the right mindset and a well-articulated vision, legal operations professionals can not only win the confidence of the C-suite but can also have a profound impact on organizational efficiency and effectiveness.