Human Resources Manager

The Human Resources (HR) Manager reports directly to a member of the Executive Committee.This is a highly visible, hands-on position responsible for managing the HR function and Facilities for the firm.This role is responsible for the employee lifecycle, supporting a positive and collaborative workplace environment, and the facilities for the Chicago and Lake Forest office. The role requires a strong combination of HR expertise, leadership ability, sound judgment, and exceptional interpersonal skills. A successful candidate will be proactive and approachable, with the ability to build trusted relationships throughout the Firm while maintaining professionalism, discretion, and confidentiality. Key Responsibilities Human Resources & Employee Experience Serve as the Firm’s primary Human Resources resource and trusted advisor to firm leadership and employees. Oversee the complete employee lifecycle, including recruiting, interviewing, hiring, onboarding, employee development, performance management, engagement, retention, and offboarding. Provide timely and thoughtful guidance to employees regarding HR policies, benefits, workplace concerns, and other employment-related matters. Serve as the primary point of contact for employee relations issues and workplace concerns, handling sensitive matters with sound judgment, discretion, and confidentiality. Develop, implement, and maintain HR policies, procedures, and best practices. Maintain accurate and confidential personnel records and HRIS information. Employee Engagement Help shape and strengthen a positive, professional and collaborative Firm culture. Develop practical initiatives that improve employee engagement, morale, communication and retention. Serve as a visible and approachable presence throughout the Firm and build strong relationships with attorneys and staff. Regularly assess employee needs and feedback and make recommendations to firm leadership regarding opportunities to improve the employee experience. Organize Firm social events, employee appreciation activities and other programs that encourage connection and engagement. Directly manage all Firm support staff, including Administrative Assistants, Paralegals, and Office Services personnel. Provide day-to-day leadership, direction, coaching and support to the support staff. Oversee staffing needs, workload distribution, scheduling, coverage, and performance. Establish clear expectations and provide ongoing feedback and coaching. Administer annual and ongoing performance evaluation processes for support staff. Identify training and professional development opportunities to enhance support staff capabilities. Promote teamwork, accountability, professionalism, and a service-oriented approach among support staff. Evaluate staffing needs and recommend changes to improve efficiency and service to attorneys and clients. Manage recruiting for support staff positions, including developing job descriptions, sourcing candidates, screening applicants, coordinating interviews, and facilitating hiring decisions. Partner directly with firm leadership to identify staffing needs and recruit qualified candidates. Coordinate a professional and welcoming onboarding experience for all new employees. Ensure new employees receive appropriate orientation, training, policies, technology, benefits information, and resources. Benefits & HR Administration Administer employee benefit enrollments, changes, questions, and terminations. Serve as the primary employee contact for benefit-related questions Manage HRIS systems and ensure employee information is accurate and current. Maintain required employment records and documentation. Compliance & Employee Relations Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations. Stay current on employment law developments and recommend appropriate changes to Firm policies and practices. Handle employee relations matters fairly, consistently, and confidentially. Counsel firm leadership regarding employee performance, workplace issues, and employment practices. Maintain appropriate documentation relating to employee relations and performance matters. Office Operations & Facilities Oversee Office Services and day-to-day office operations to ensure the Chicago and Lake Forest office runs efficiently and professionally. Manage office support functions, including scheduling, coverage, supplies, vendors, facilities, and related administrative needs. Coordinate facilities-related projects and work with building management and outside vendors as needed. Demonstrated success in Human Resources within a professional services organization; law firm experience strongly preferred . Strong leadership and people-management skills, with demonstrated experience directly managing employees. Strong employee relations skills and the ability to handle sensitive situations with maturity, discretion, and sound judgment. Demonstrated ability to foster employee engagement and contribute to a positive workplace culture. Proactive, self-directed, and comfortable working independently as the Firm’s primary HR professional. Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Outstanding verbal and written communication skills. Ability to build credibility and strong working relationships with attorneys, staff, and firm leadership. Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively under pressure. High level of professionalism, integrity, discretion, and confidentiality. Qualifications & Experience Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 6+ years of progressive Human Resources experience. 4+ years of direct people-management experience. Experience working in a professional services environment required; law firm experience preferred . Demonstrated experience in employee relations, performance management, recruiting, benefits administration, and employee engagement. Working knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations. #J-18808-Ljbffr Berger Schatz