Senior Human Resources Manager – Legal Practice Groups

McDermott Will & Emery

Strategic HR Manager advising legal practice groups on workforce strategy and talent initiatives. Collaborating with leaders to drive high-performance outcomes in a top law firm environment.

Posted 5/9/2026full-timeChicago • District of Columbia, Illinois, New York, Washington • 🇺🇸 United StatesSenior💰 $190,000 - $225,000 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Provide senior-level HR guidance and coaching to leadership on workforce strategy, organizational design, risk management, and talent-related decisions
Collaborate with HR Leadership and the General Counsel’s Office to ensure all employment policies and practices comply with federal, state, and local law
Lead the implementation of Firmwide HR programs, including attorney lifecycle processes, talent management, compensation planning, and training initiatives
Manage the performance and development of Human Resources Manager direct reports
Contribute ideas and project leadership to the strategy and roadmap for the global HR Management function
Provide direction on complex employee relations matters and high-impact organizational change efforts
Analyze people trends and HR data to anticipate challenges and drive strategic talent planning
Promote a high-performance culture by driving leadership development, career progression, and succession planning

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience
At least eight years of progressive experience working in law firms or professional services organizations
Advanced knowledge of employment law, employee relations, and talent development practices
Knowledge of law firm industry concepts and practices
Strong business acumen and leadership coaching skills
Ability to navigate difficult conversations and complex interpersonal situations
Ability to assess risk and escalate concerns when appropriate
Ability to convey a variety of HR concepts in a practical and straightforward manner
Ability to handle and maintain confidential information

Benefits

Comp & perks

Generous compensation packages
Comprehensive benefits package
Discretionary bonus eligibility
Wellness programs

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

employment lawemployee relationstalent developmentHR data analysisperformance managementcompensation planningorganizational designrisk managementtalent managementleadership development

Soft Skills

leadership coachingbusiness acumenconfidentialityinterpersonal skillsstrategic planningcommunicationconflict resolutionproject leadershipcollaborationchange management

Certifications

Bachelor's degree