Director: Global HR Operations

Job Overview Director: Global HR Operations – responsible for defining the strategic direction for the HR Operations team and administering programs, policies and key imperatives to support the business and deliver a rewarding career experience for our people. Lead and develop a team of trusted advisors, oversee all HR processes, systems, data, reporting, global mobility, HR compliance and other operational matters. Foster a common purpose and commitment among the team, leading by example and striking a balance of challenge and support to empower them to perform at their highest level and deliver exceptional client service. Provide centralized services, program support and budget oversight to the HR team and our various Centers of Expertise (COE) with the aim of enhancing the employee experience. Serve as liaison with IT function to advance the technology roadmap for each of the COEs including compensation, benefits, global mobility, recruitment, talent management & community building, and learning & development. Actively identify and manage risk and compliance issues, working closely with the General Counsel’s office on privacy, compliance training, background checks, law licenses and visa status tracking. Represent the HR function in all matters related to cross‑functional processes, data and systems integration. Inform and prioritize all Firm technology projects including system implementations, upgrades, data governance and privacy considerations. Form part of the Business Intelligence Committee that governs data reporting and analytics. Responsibilities Managing and developing the HR Operations team in line with the strategy and ensuring all activity is adequately resourced Aligning and efficiently operating the global HR business processes, projects and systems that support them Project planning, implementation and operational oversight of all employee lifecycle processes, including performance evaluations, competencies, client and office secondments, mobility, retirement/succession planning, leaves of absence, job descriptions, onboarding and exits Networking with regional HR teams and office HR process owners, as well as the Senior Leaders across Legal and Business Services Work with HRIS team to manage HR data integration with other Firm systems Develop standardized procedures and process expertise across the team, liaising with all offices to ensure the Operations team is delivering Cross‑functional liaison and work planning, particularly relating to Technology, Business Reporting and General Counsel Oversee all projects relating to HR Operations to ensure they are delivered efficiently Take a leadership role within the HR function to ensure all core HR processes are fit for purpose and support the Firm’s strategy Manage and develop the HR Knowledge Library and the internal Shared Services teams – based in Chicago (Americas time zone) and London (UK time zone) – to drive global operational standardization, efficiency and expertise, and an exceptional partner and employee experience Contribute to the development and continuous review of the HR Strategy in conjunction with the CTO Set the parameters for the prioritization of people and budget resources and high impact changes to be implemented, as relevant to the HR Operations COE Liaise with the General Counsel’s office to ensure compliance objectives and requirements are achieved, including background and conflicts checking, data privacy/retention, compliance training, law license and visa status, risk management and other Firm obligations Address global regulatory requirements including secondment administration Develop and communicate HR policies, technology, operations, global mobility and HR compliance strategies and development roadmaps Foster global adoption of standardized processes and systems; manage conflicts in terms of global adherence to established processes, legal compliance and risk management Make decisions about strategy, best practice, program offerings, HR spend, etc. Stay at the forefront of HR process innovation, identify new opportunities and drive effective adoption of technology and best practices Oversee the annual development of the HR operations budget for projects, expenses and headcount in coordination with leaders of HR COEs and provide reporting to stakeholders Manage HR Operations that includes Global Mobility, HR Projects, Compliance and internal Central HR or HR Shared Services Serve on the senior leadership team for HR Qualifications & Experience An undergraduate degree or related/comparable work experience Intellectual curiosity and creative thinking Project Management certification (e.g. Prince II) or equivalent experience Professional services experience essential; experience in a global law firm preferred Experience managing an internal shared service or operations center capability Working internationally and cross‑culturally Strong track record of managing teams for HR Operations, preferably global teams, and managing key HR processes using technology Technical Skills Evidence a deep understanding and application in: HR Process Design & Implementation Presenting people Analytics and insights Setting and monitoring HR KPIs HR project management Organizational design Service quality management Budgeting and financial management Strong technology experience of using – and preferably implementing – any of the following: PeopleSoft Workday SuccessFactors ServiceNow HR data analytics Performance Management and Onboarding tools HR Knowledge Library Applicant Tracking Learning Management Job Descriptions AI applications for HR, etc. Performance Traits Ability to inspire, influence and motivate others Understand the commercial and business context of the legal sector Ability to see the bigger picture and act accordingly Practical and innovative Strength of character and ability to debate and challenge as required Strategic, logical thinking Well‑developed relationship and stakeholder management skills Credible professional presence Proactive, resourceful, takes initiative Excellent communication, facilitation and negotiation skills Sound judgement and decision making Critical thinking Advanced project management skills Client service focus Analytical Skills Leading global teams Physical Requirements International travel to other offices Benefits We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life and AD&D insurance, 401(k) savings plan, backup childcare and eldercare, generous paid time off (PTO), and opportunities for professional development and growth. Equal Opportunity Mayer Brown works with select external search firms that have been vetted against our standards. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. We are committed to providing equal opportunity and reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities and disabled veterans. Posted Pay Range The typical pay scale for this position is between USD $230,000.00/Yr. and USD $330,000.00/Yr., although the actual wage or salary could be lower or higher if the candidate's education, experience, skills and internal pay alignment are different from those specified. This description is not exhaustive, and the Firm may modify it at any time at its sole discretion; nothing herein creates an employment contract or alters the at‑will nature of employment. #J-18808-Ljbffr