Director of HR Strategy & Operations

The Director of HR Strategy & Operations will own the human resources operations strategy and be responsible for developing and implementing scalable solutions, as well as building a shared services organization to support the overarching HR strategy. It is an excellent opportunity to work with a world-class law firm with an outstanding global HR team. The position requires extensive experience as an HR operations leader and innovator.  They should have led significant build or HR transformation projects in past roles. This role partners with Sidley’s HR IT function to implement technologies that enable best-in-class processes to ensure the flow and ease of use of critical data. The leader of this team reports to the Chief Human Resources Officer and liaises with other stakeholders to understand the business requirements and usability expectations related to managing Human Resources systems and processes. They will collaborate with the HR Information Systems Lead and business owners of key firm systems and other stakeholders to implement a coordinated strategy that addresses these requirements and expectations through an effective balance of intuitive design, automation, consistent data management, efficient processes and technology best practices.

They will consult with Human Resources leaders to identify opportunities to enhance or expand the use of information to support strategic business goals and data-driven decision making through process improvements and system enhancements.

• In close collaboration with the Chief Human Resources Officer and leaders within the Human Resources department, contribute to the development and implementation of the firm’s overall Human Resources strategy and department-specific goals, as well as serve as an ambassador for the team when interacting with IT and staff.
• Partner with HR directors to continuously refine existing HR processes and systems to pinpoint standardization and automation opportunities, tailoring solutions to accommodate local regulations and requirements.
• Collaborate with Human Resources department leaders and team members to implement workflows and communication strategies to facilitate the adoption and enhance the impact of the firm’s processes.
• In partnership with the HRIS Lead, build a solid network within the legal technology community and monitor trends and developments related to the profession and use of technology and processes in order to identify opportunities and best practices

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the Duties and Responsibilities (Duties) above satisfactorily and meet the requirements below.  The requirements listed below are representative of the minimum knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.  If you need such an accommodation, please email staffrecruiting@sidley.com (current employees should contact Human Resources). 

Education and/or Experience: 

Required:

• A minimum of 10 years of experience working with HR operations, HR transformation, and HR process design
• A minimum of 10 years of Human Resources managing and developing teams
• Demonstrated experience implementing and managing enterprise information systems including integration with both internal and external sources

Preferred:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field
• HR certification (e.g. SHRM-SCP, PHR/SPHR)
• Experience developing and executing against a strategic vision for HR operations
• Experience developing and implementing enterprise Human Resources systems in a legal or professional services environment
• Experience in identifying, designing and implementing automation opportunities across HR functions. Experience with automation technology (e.g. UiPath) would be a plus
• Experience in leading, designing or operating within a HR Shared Services organization
• Knowledge of an array of legal practices, including transactional, litigation, and regulatory areas.  

Other Skills and Abilities:

The following will also be required of the successful candidate:

• Strong organizational skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Good judgment
• Strong interpersonal communication skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Able to work harmoniously and effectively with others
• Able to preserve confidentiality and exercise discretion
• Able to work under pressure
• Able to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines and priorities

Sidley Austin LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer.