Lacelle Porter
*************@*****.*** • 703-***-****
• https://www.LinkedIn.com/in/lacelle-porter-7397437/
• Washington, DC
Strategic operations leader responsible for defining and implementing strategy and operational excellence for organizations including process improvements, technology adoption, operational changes, and budget allocation. Results-oriented and dynamic operations executive with over two decades of experience leading organizational strategies, financial management, and service delivery optimization in the legal sector. Excel at driving growth and reducing costs, demonstrated through seamless integration of cross-border operations and strategic realignment of technological resources. Proven track record of bolstering profitability and revenue through innovative project management and business development initiatives. Areas of Expertise
● Project Management
● Financial Management & P&L Oversight
● Litigation Support & Legal Technology
● Legal Operations
● Operational Strategy Development
● Innovative Solution Implementation
● Business Development & Growth Initiatives
● Technological Resource Realignment
● Case Management Systems
● Data Preservation & Document Review
● Talent Development
● Cross-Border Team Integration
● Service Delivery Optimization
● Digital Forensics
● Data Analytics
Professional Experience
Ricoh USA, Washington, DC
Vice President of eDiscovery Operations
2022 — 2024
Directed and enhanced growth strategies for a $30M P&L within global eDiscovery business unit. Managed operational strategies, structural adjustments, and process enhancements to optimize service delivery. Oversaw budgeting, financial forecasting, and P&L management, ensuring fiscal responsibility and cost-effectiveness. Provided guidance and supervision to litigation support operations, fostering a collaborative environment among service line leaders. Streamlined operations through integration of cross-border teams and technology stacks, aligning with overarching business objectives. Key accomplishments:
Boosted project management revenue by 20%, demonstrating effective strategies and fostering growth opportunities within the organization.
Merged Canadian and U.S. teams, forming cross-border North American operations, enhancing collaboration and efficiency across international boundaries.
Aligned personnel and technology stack with company’s business goals through strategic right-sizing initiative, optimizing efficiency and productivity.
Engaged with executive management team, outside brokers, and potential buyers to successfully sell line of business. iDiscovery Solutions, Inc, Washington, DC
Director of Discovery Services
2018 — 2022
Spearheaded daily operations of the Discovery Services department, ensuring optimal financial and operational performance. Developed and oversaw strategies for efficient and effective delivery of eDiscovery services. Guided clients in adopting cutting-edge technologies and industry best practices for complex litigation and investigations. Drove modernization initiatives, streamlining systems and processes to meet evolving business needs. Ensured compliance with legal requirements, regulations, and industry standards related to eDiscovery processes.
Key accomplishments:
Enhanced service delivery and fostered inter-departmental collaboration to bolster overall efficiency and client satisfaction.
Boosted revenue by 20% through strategic management and expansion of project management services.
Expanded company's market offerings by launching state-of-the-art document review facility and expanded digital forensics services to meet growing demand for specialized investigative services. Lacelle D. Porter Page 2 2
FRONTEO USA, Washington, DC
Vice President of Discovery Services
2016 — 2017
Oversaw budgetary planning and fiscal management to ensure efficient resource allocation and cost control. Led marketing initiatives to amplify brand visibility and fostered collaborative relationships with CEO for regional development in Washington, DC. Directed multidisciplinary team comprised of Analysts, Project Managers, Digital Forensics, and Document Review staff, ensuring high standards of performance and service delivery. Implemented policies and procedures to streamline operations, increase productivity, and maintain compliance with industry regulations.
Key accomplishments:
Guided growth strategies and operational excellence within EMEA litigation support markets, enhancing FRONTEO’S brand recognition and market presence.
Launched state-of-the-art Document Review Center in Washington, DC, bolstering company's operational capabilities and client service offerings.
Created a third-party legal contracting team to cover vendor and commercial agreements. Reed Smith LLP, Washington, DC
Senior Manager
2008 — 2014
Developed and led a top-tier litigation support team, realigning them with the firm's strategic objectives. Managed a diverse portfolio of initiatives aimed at enhancing process efficiency and elevating client satisfaction. Oversaw a team of 25 analysts, project managers, and IT professionals to ensure timely and effective completion of all projects and tasks. Championed the adoption of innovative technology solutions that improved operational workflows and team productivity. Formulated and executed strategies for service expansion into new international markets, enhancing firm's global presence. Conducted comprehensive analysis and revision of existing procedures to identify and eliminate inefficiencies. Mentored and developed staff, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth.
Key accomplishments:
Implemented a new enterprise-wide document review platform and broadened service offerings into the EMEA region.
Streamlined eDiscovery technology processes, leading to a 15% reduction in legal spend.
Boosted billable hours in Project Management services by 50%, enhancing departmental profits and optimizing resource utilization.
Led high-level departmental transformational projects and change management teams. Additional Experiences
Global Litigation Support Manager Dewey & LeBoeuf Washington, DC 2005 - 2008
Senior Project Manager Paul Hastings Washington, DC 2004 - 2005
Project Manager Latham & Watkins Washington, DC 2002 – 2004
Litigation Support Specialist Wilmer, Cutler & Pickering Washington, DC 2000 - 2002
Computer Specialist Collier, Shannon, Rill & Scott Washington, DC 1995 - 2000
Litigation Paralegal Van Ness, Feldman Washington, DC 1990 - 1994 Education
Bachelor of Arts, Eastern Illinois University, Charleston, IL Licenses & Certifications
Paralegal Certification, Barclay College St. Ann, MO