HR Manager - Law Firm

Location Chicago, IL (Hybrid - 2-3 days in office) About the Firm We are partnering with a leading international law firm known for its strong global platform, high-caliber client base, and long-standing reputation within the legal market. The firm is recognized for combining legal excellence with a genuinely collaborative and people-focused culture. With a strong presence in Chicago and across the U.S., the business continues to invest heavily in its people strategy, HR capability, and leadership infrastructure. As part of this investment, the firm is continuing its transition from a traditional HR generalist model toward a more modern HR Business Partner and Centers of Excellence (CoE) structure - creating an exciting opportunity for an experienced HR leader to join during a pivotal stage of that journey. The Opportunity This is a senior HR role supporting a population of 300+ attorneys , covering the Chicago office alongside elements of the firm\'s U.S. Corporate Practice . Reporting into the Head of HR Business Partners , you will act as a trusted advisor to senior legal leadership, balancing strategic partnership with hands-on HR delivery. The HR transformation is well underway but not yet complete, making this an ideal opportunity for someone who enjoys helping shape operating models, influencing change, and building consistency within a complex, high-performance professional services environment. Key Responsibilities Act as the primary HR partner for the Chicago office and U.S. Corporate Practice. Support attorneys, advising across performance management, employee relations, workforce planning, and talent-related matters. Build strong relationships with partners and senior leaders, providing pragmatic and commercially grounded HR advice. Lead and develop two direct reports . Partner closely with HR Centers of Excellence as the HRBP model continues to evolve. Support organizational change initiatives related to structure, leadership transitions, and firm-wide transformation. Manage complex and sensitive employee relations matters with discretion, confidence, and sound judgment. Contribute to broader HR initiatives and collaborate closely with a wider national HRBP team. About You The successful candidate will bring: Solid HR experience within a law firm or professional services environment . Demonstrated experience supporting senior, fee-earning populations. Strong employee relations capability and confidence handling complex matters. Proven people management experience, including development of junior HR team members. Comfort operating in a business undergoing change and transformation. Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence at partner level. A collaborative, calm, and solutions-oriented approach. Why This Role? Senior HR leadership role within a respected global law firm. Opportunity to help shape and embed an evolving HRBP model. Significant scope supporting a large attorney population. People management responsibility with real influence. Hybrid working model (2-3 days in office). #J-18808-Ljbffr Oakleaf Partnership