Lilian Bernal

About Lilian Bernal

Legal operations professional with a comprehensive background in law firm administration, billing, and HR. Currently managing the full billing cycle at a boutique law firm, including time entry review, invoice generation, collections, and client communication. Also oversee human resources, benefits administration, accounts payable/receivable, vendor relationships, insurance, and day-to-day office operations. Known for streamlining workflows, improving internal processes, and supporting attorneys so they can focus on legal work. Fully fluent in Spanish and German, with excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

Experience

1. Operations Manager

   Romano Law PLLC

   Feb 2022 — Present · New York, NY, US

   As Operations Manager at a boutique law firm, I oversee the firm’s day-to-day business operations, with a strong focus on billing, human resources, and administrative management. I work closely with firm leadership to ensure internal systems support the needs of attorneys and clients, and I’m directly responsible for developing and maintaining core operational processes that drive efficiency and accuracy.Key responsibilities include:Billing & Financial Operations: Manage the full billing cycle from time entry review to invoice generation, collections, and client communication. Coordinate with attorneys to ensure accurate billing narratives, timely invoicing, and client satisfaction. Track retainers, trust account activity, and expense reimbursements.Accounts Payable / Accounts Receivable: Process firm and client expenses, reconcile statements, and ensure timely payments and collections.HR & Benefits Administration: Oversee employee onboarding/offboarding, manage benefits enrollment, handle compliance with federal and state employment regulations, and serve as point of contact for payroll and insurance matters.Vendor & Systems Management: Coordinate with third-party vendors for office services, IT, and benefits administration. Manage software tools including QuickBooks, Microsoft Teams, and SharePoint.Office Operations: Supervise administrative workflows, implement internal policies, and ensure smooth coordination of calendar management, meeting room usage, and general office logistics.Highlights:Took full ownership of billing operations, improving invoice turnaround time and accuracy.Introduced new workflows for expense tracking and reimbursements, reducing errors and missed payments.Played a key role in transitioning the firm to Microsoft Teams and streamlining collaboration across departments.

Education

• University of Havana

  Bachelor of Arts - BA, German and English Studies

  2013