Apply By: Monday, November 16, 2026 11:59 pm EST

Director, Lawyer Services and Payments (24 months) Building a diverse workforce that represents the communities we serve while promoting a protected culture and work environment while dismantles systemic barriers, welcomes fresh perspectives and embraces differences as a priority is a core value at LAO. LAO encourages applicants from equity-seeking groups, including but not limited to individuals who are First Nations, Inuit or Métis, Black and racialized, as well as persons with disabilities, women and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. We recognize the value of equity, diversity and inclusion and are committed to addressing systemic barriers, and prioritizing, attracting and retaining diverse staff. All interested and eligible people will be considered, with due consideration to all protected grounds under the Ontario Human Rights Code. Legal Aid Ontario values integrity, respect, responsiveness, excellence, independence, accountability, openness and consistency. Our recruitment process reflects our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. Accommodations are available throughout the recruitment process as well as during employment at LAO. Please direct any accommodation requests to our recruitment team.

About the job Primary function The Director, Lawyer Services & Payments (LSP) provides strategic leadership and oversight of Lawyer Services & Payments, the Lawyer Service Centre, and the Provincial Case Management Office. The role is responsible for ensuring compliance with legislative and regulatory requirements while overseeing more than $200 million in annual payments to roster lawyers,



including Big Case Management budgets and payments for court-appointed counsel on behalf of the Ministry of the Attorney General and the Department of Justice. The Director ensures strong financial controls, payment accuracy, operational efficiency, and service excellence across all functions. This role leads or supports business transformation, process improvement, risk management, and modernization initiatives that enhance service delivery, strengthen governance, and improve organizational performance. Working collaboratively across the organization, the Director drives cross-functional projects, leverages data and performance metrics to support decision‑making, and promotes sustainable change through the integration of people, processes, technology, and communications.

What you bring to the team Key accountabilities

Provide strategic leadership and oversight of payment operations, billing adjudication, service standards, and financial controls.

Ensure timely, accurate, and compliant processing of lawyer payments and related financial transactions.

Lead operational excellence and continuous improvement initiatives to improve efficiency, reduce risk, and strengthen internal controls.

Identify, assess, and resolve complex business and operational challenges through analysis, risk assessment, and implementation of effective solutions.

Support large‑scale business transformation and payment modernization initiatives, including process redesign, technology implementation,



and change management.

Oversee multiple projects and strategic initiatives, ensuring delivery within scope, budget, timelines, and quality expectations.

Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to align operational priorities, business requirements, and organizational objectives.

Develop and monitor performance measures, service standards, and reporting frameworks to support data‑driven decision‑making.

Prepare and present business cases, financial analyses, and executive‑level recommendations to support strategic priorities.

Evaluate systems, processes, and technologies to identify opportunities for automation, innovation, and service enhancement.

Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, continuous improvement, and client service excellence.

Lead, coach, and develop a high‑performing team while supporting employee engagement, talent development, and succession planning.

Act as a subject matter expert in operational excellence, financial administration, process improvement, and project delivery.

Required skills & experience

University degree in Law, Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or a related discipline.

Professional accounting designation or equivalent combination of education and experience considered an asset.

Minimum of 10 years of progressive operational management experience, including leadership of complex business, financial, and process improvement initiatives.

Strong financial, analytical, and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to evaluate risks, opportunities, and business impacts.

Proven experience leading large‑scale projects and organizational change initiat

📌 Director, Lawyer Services and Payments (Toronto)
🏢 Legal Aid Ontario
📍 Toronto