HR Systems Associate Director (New York)

A global law firm is seeking an experienced HR technology leader to join the Human Resources Department as the HR Systems Associate Director. This role will serve as a key driver of HR systems strategy, managing the lifecycle of system implementations — from RFP development and vendor selection through configuration, testing, and go-live — while providing ongoing strategic management of the firm's existing HR technology portfolio. The Associate Director will partner closely with the HR Data Analytics and Compensation Director to enhance reporting capabilities, design and implement new workflows, and advance data-driven decision-making across the HR function.

Key Responsibilities Include But Are Not Limited To:

System Implementation & Technology Strategy

· Lead end-to-end implementations of new HR systems and platforms — from business case development and vendor evaluation through configuration, UAT, change management, and go-live.

· Serve as a primary project owner for implementation workstreams, managing contract negotiations, timelines, budgets, and cross-functional dependencies across HR, Benefits, Legal Talent Management, IT, Finance, and external vendors.

· Translate complex business objectives into detailed technical specifications that guide vendor selection and system design; drive change management to ensure adoption and smooth transitions for end users.

HR Systems Portfolio Management

· Oversee the day-to-day management, performance, and reliability of the firm's full suite of HR systems, including applicant tracking, performance management, time and attendance, and global cloud HRIS.

HR Data Governance, Reporting & Analytics

· Partner closely with the HR Data Analytics and Compensation Director to establish and maintain a data governance framework that ensures consistent data standards, quality, and security across all HR systems; define and document data models, map information flows, and maintain a full inventory of critical employee data points — identifying new fields required to support evolving business needs.

Strategic Partnerships & Team Leadership

· Partner closely with the HR Data Analytics and Compensation Director on analytics capabilities that support workforce planning, compensation analysis, and firm-wide people strategy, including maintenance and expansion of the HR data architecture.

· Build and maintain strong working relationships with Legal Talent Management, IT Systems, Benefits, Payroll, Finance, and other key stakeholders to align HR technology initiatives with broader firm objectives.

Qualifications

•Bachelor’s Degree (BA/BS) required; advanced degree or relevant certification (e.g., HRIP, HR Analytics) preferred.

•At least seven (7) years of relevant experience mapping, configuring, implementing, and supporting SaaS-based HR technology solutions required, preferably with significant hands-on experience with Workday; experience with ADP Enterprise strongly preferred.