A leading Chicago-based law firm is seeking a Senior Manager, Human Resources due to growth. The Senior Manager, Human Resources works closely with the Chief Talent Officer, the Business Director, and the Co-Managing Shareholders to provide HR, professional development, and recruiting support for the Chicago office. Areas of focus include performance management, training and development, employee relations, and policy administration, along with other Talent Services functions.
What's the job?
• Own recruiting, onboarding, and retention for attorneys and staff, including sourcing candidates and running new hire orientation
• Work with leadership to build programs that improve morale, engagement, and retention, and that support career growth and a positive office culture
• Serve as a go-to HR resource for employees and managers on policy interpretation, benefits, FMLA, short- and long-term disability, and workers' compensation, while keeping the office compliant with federal and state rules
• Handle complex employee relations matters, coaching and counseling managers on performance issues, administering corrective action, and leading disciplinary meetings and separations when needed
• Run the performance management cycle for associates and staff, including talent reviews, improvement plans, and manager training and development programs
• Apply sound compensation principles to make well-informed salary recommendations, and support the Business Director with annual salary and bonus cycles
• Work with the wider Talent Services team to map career paths and contribute to workforce and succession planning
• Partner with Professional Development on training resources and skill-building, and make sure required training is completed
• Maintain accurate, compliant personnel records, including recruiting files, I-9s, EEO documentation, and onboarding and separation records
• Build, improve, and refine HR processes and procedures, recommend policy updates, and support change management efforts in the office
• Supervise legal support staff so that attorneys receive high-quality help and work flows efficiently
• Support other department projects and take on additional duties as assigned
What's needed?
• Bachelor's degree in HR, Business, Organization Development, or a related field, or equivalent experience
• 10+ years in HR, business management, or a related area, ideally in a law firm or professional services environment, including management or supervisory experience
• Working knowledge of federal, state, and local employment law, including Illinois requirements and Chicago ordinances
• Proven recruiting experience and familiarity with best practices
• Solid understanding of benefits, compensation, and other HR programs
• Strong written and verbal communication, professional presence, and presentation skills
• Ability to manage competing priorities and tight deadlines under pressure
• Analytical, with sound judgment, a bias for action, and reliable follow-through
• A service-first mindset that meets or exceeds client expectations and looks for new ways to help others
• Experience with applicant tracking and HRIS systems
• Skill in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook) and Adobe, and the ability to learn new software quickly
• Experience using firm-approved AI tools, such as Copilot or ChatGPT, to support professional and management work, checking outputs carefully and staying accountable for the final product
• Models responsible AI use and encourages adoption of new AI technologies, with attention to privacy, confidentiality, and human oversight
• SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or SPHR certification preferred
• Workday experience preferred
Key Details
• Compensation: $150,000-$160,000 annually + bonus eligibility
• Location: Chicago, IL
• Work Model: Hybrid (4 days onsite, 1 day remote)
• Benefits: Comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance and 401(k)
• Employment Type: Direct Hire
If this sounds like your perfect next role, apply today!
Rachel Holmes
Principal Recruiter
#LI-RH1
