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Korn Ferry · 1 day ago

Chief Public Defender

Pittsburgh, PA

Full-time

Onsite

Director/Executive

$140K/yr - $160K/yr

8+ years exp

Allegheny County is seeking a dynamic, mission-driven leader to serve as its next Chief Public Defender. The role involves leading a respected public defense office, managing a large legal team, and ensuring effective representation for indigent clients within the criminal justice system.

Management Consulting

Responsibilities

Lead and manage a large, unionized legal team and support staff across multiple divisions

Independently direct legal strategy for the Public Defender’s Office and ensure the rigorous representation of clients

Collaborate with Division Heads and County leadership to oversee strategic direction, staffing, and operations of the Public Defender’s Office

Interface regularly with the County Manager and Deputy County Manager

Manage a budget of approximately $15 million and advocate for continued growth and investment in public defense

Support cross-functional collaboration with agencies such as the Office of Children, Youth and Families (CYF), Health and Human Services (HHS), and immigrant services

Lead program strategy, planning, and evaluation, incorporating data analysis and statistical insights to inform decision-making

Oversee contracts and grant administration, including development, compliance, reporting, and strategic alignment with office priorities

Supervise and evaluate legal practice across the office, respond to inquiries from Attorney Disciplinary Counsel, and address complaints from clients, justice system stakeholders, and external parties

Promote a collegial and inclusive culture within the office

Oversee hiring, discipline, promotion, and termination of employees

Ensure compliance with collective bargaining agreements and maintain positive union relations

Represent the office in meetings, conferences, and hearings impacting indigent defense services

Represent the interests of indigent clients and the public defense system in intra- and intergovernmental committees, commissions, and working groups

Provide input on legislative, policy, and procedural changes affecting indigent defense; recommend new laws or amendments where appropriate

Engage with judicial, executive, and legislative stakeholders on matters impacting the delivery of public defense services

Build and maintain strategic partnerships with public, private, and nonprofit organizations that support clients, staff, and the mission of the Public Defender’s Office

Monitor and communicate relevant public policy developments, ensuring the office remains responsive to emerging issues and opportunities

Serve as a public-facing representative of the office, when appropriate and in compliance with professional conduct rules and confidentiality obligations, including media engagement and public speaking

Qualification

Leadership in legal organizationCriminal law experienceBudget managementUnion relationsDiversityInclusionStakeholder engagementPublic policy familiarityTeam buildingEthical leadershipInterpersonal skillsCommunication skills

Required

The Chief Public Defender must be an active licensed member of the Pennsylvania bar

An out-of-state candidate selected as the Chief Public Defender must seek admission to the Pennsylvania Bar within 18 months of employment with the Allegheny County Public Defender's Office

The Chief Public Defender must have been admitted to the practice of law for a minimum of 8 years

Proven leadership in a complex legal or public service organization; experience managing attorneys and multidisciplinary teams

Ability to advise on legal strategy (though not required to appear in court), manage budgets, and lead organizational growth

Skilled in navigating relationships with elected officials, judges, and external stakeholders

Passion for indigent defense and improving outcomes for justice-involved individuals

Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in hiring and office culture

Strong interpersonal, political, and communication skills

Ability to delegate effectively and ensure accountability across the organization

Familiarity with public policy, legislative advocacy, and media engagement