HR Business Partner - Change Management (San Francisco)

Wilson Sonsini is the premier legal advisor to technology, life sciences, and other growth enterprises worldwide. We represent companies at every stage of development, from entrepreneurial start-ups to multibillion-dollar global corporations, as well as the venture firms, private equity firms, and investment banks that finance and advise them. The firm has approximately 1,100 attorneys in 17 offices: 13 in the U.S., two in China, and two in Europe. Our broad spectrum of practices and entrepreneurial spirit allow exceptional opportunities for professional achievement and career growth. We are seeking an experienced HR Business Partner with strong operational instincts and a demonstrated ability to lead and implement change in a law firm or similarly complex professional services environment. This role is designed for an HR leader who understands firm culture, governance, and the practical realities of working with partners, attorneys, and professional staff—and who brings discipline, structure, and follow‑through to people initiatives.The Human Resources Business Partner, Change Management plays a dual role: driving the execution of HR initiatives while also serving as a center of excellence for change management and project best practices across the HR team. This individual will consult on work of all sizes—no project is too small—helping HR colleagues plan effectively, anticipate risks, and execute with confidence. The role is highly collaborative and is intended to elevate how work gets done across HR, ensuring initiatives are implemented thoughtfully, consistently, and successfully.This role is available as a hybrid or virtual work arrangement.What You’ll Do In this role, you will be responsible for the operational execution and adoption of HR initiatives across the firm. Key responsibilities include:Managing HR initiatives from planning through implementation, ensuring timelines, dependencies, and risks are actively managed and outcomes are deliveredLeading change management efforts for new or evolving HR programs, policies, and processes, with a focus on practical adoption and minimal disruptionServing as a consultative resource to the broader HR team by introducing project discipline, change management best practices, and practical tools that enable others to be effectivePartnering closely with HR leadership, firm leaders, and key stakeholders to align expectations, coordinate execution, and resolve issuesDeveloping clear, targeted communications and rollout approaches tailored to partners, attorneys, and business professionalsIdentifying opportunities to improve HR processes and execution, applying a hands‑on, solutions‑oriented approachWhat We’re Looking For7+ years of progressive HR experience, ideally including experience in a law firm or professional services environmentBachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field preferredDemonstrated success as an HR Business Partner or in a similarly consultative, execution‑focused HR roleStrong change management experience, particularly implementing HR initiatives related to talent, performance, workforce planning, employee relations, or organizational changeProven ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously and bring structure and momentum to complex workHigh level of professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment when handling sensitive HR mattersClear, confident communicator who can work effectively with partners, attorneys, and business professionalsHighly organized, detail‑oriented, and comfortable operating in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environmentProficiency with HR systems and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)​The primary location for this job posting is in Palo Alto, but other locations may be listed. The actual base pay offered will depend upon a variety of factors, including but not limited to the selected candidate’s qualifications, years of relevant experience, level of education, professional certifications and licenses, and work location. The anticipated pay range for this position is as follows:Palo Alto, New York, San Francisco: $131,750 - $178,250 per year.
Austin, San Diego, Seattle, and all other locations: $119,000 - $161,000 per year.The compensation for this position may include a discretionary year-end merit bonus based on performance. We offer a highly competitive salary and benefits package. Benefits information can be found here. Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). SummaryLocation: Palo Alto; San Francisco; San Diego; New York; Seattle; Virtual / Remote; AustinType: Full time