Director of Human Resources

Whiteford, Taylor & Preston, LLP • Washington, DC

9d

About The Position

The Director of Human Resources provides leadership and oversite of all aspects of human resources and talent management for our firm. The Director oversees the development and application of policies, training and educational programs, compensation and benefits to ensure the Firm remains a place where Attorneys and Staff have all that they need to succeed in their work. Additionally, the Director maintains awareness of changes in employment laws and regulations to ensure the Firm’s policies and procedures are within compliance. The Director of Human Resources collaborates with the Firm’s leadership to align strategic HR initiatives with growth, development and changes across the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Management, or Human Resources preferred or demonstrated relevant professional experience in lieu of degree
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive HR leadership experience required
• High level of interpersonal relations and communication skills.
• Willingness and aptitude to listen intentionally and to interact effectively with individuals at all levels within the Firm.
• Ability to positively engage and motivate employees through various programs, activities, and communication tools.
• Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office suite, particularly Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams. Experience utilizing payroll software, applicant tracking systems, and learning management systems.

Nice To Haves

• Masters Degree in Human Resources and/or Human Resources Certification (i.e., SHRM-CP/SCP, PHR/SPHR) preferred
• Experience working in a professional service firm strongly desired

Responsibilities

• Oversee the management and efficacy of all aspects of the human resources function for the firm.
• Lead the development and advancement of Human Resources strategic initiatives that support the growth and direction of the Firm. Collaborate with the Executive Director and other Firm leadership to align Human Resources programs and solutions with firmwide initiatives and objectives.
• Maintain awareness of federal and state employment laws and related developments. Develop and update policies and programs to align with applicable legal requirements.
• Partner with Firm leadership on workforce planning to assess current and future staffing needs, identify skill gaps, and support organizational growth and operational needs.
• Lead, develop, and prioritize the work of the Human Resources team, including establishing departmental goals, service standards, and opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Develop and manage the Human Resources departmental budget, including expenses related to recruiting, training, employee programs, benefits, and outside vendors.
• Ensure that talent acquisition practices are following state and federal laws, as well as best practices.
• Support recruitment efforts as needed, including development of job descriptions, training on interview best practices, interviewing and evaluating candidates, and supporting hiring managers throughout the process.
• Manage relationships and expenses associated with various recruiting sources and talent management firms.
• Partner with firm leadership and relevant departments to support, maintain, and enhance the onboarding program for new employees.
• Develop and support training, leadership development, and management education initiatives to strengthen employee performance, supervisory effectiveness, and professional growth across the Firm.
• Participate in and support, in collaboration with Office Administrators, employee engagement and recognition activities throughout the year, including staff meetings, Administrative Professionals Appreciation Week, recognition programs, and celebrations.
• Manage employee relations, including conducting investigations, providing coaching and feedback, and documenting findings, recommendations, and solutions.
• Oversee the performance evaluation process for staff, including support the 90-day and annual performance appraisal process.
• Organize and support multiple programs for gathering attorney and staff feedback, including administration of surveys, conducting retention (stay) interviews, managing exit interviews, and meeting with focus groups. Analyze feedback to support improvements and changes that support employee retention and growth.
• Provide strategic oversight and guidance on complex employee matters, including leave administration, accommodations, and other sensitive employment issues, in coordination with the Firm leadership as appropriate.
• Provide guidance to managers on the consistent interpretation and application of Firm policies, performance expectations, and employee management practices.
• Ensure the alignment of benefits programs with market-competitive offerings, employee-focused options, and practical solutions with options to support our diverse group of employees. Partner with the Human Resources Manager who oversees the administration of health and welfare plans, short and long term disability, FMLA, retirement savings plans, COBRA, and related programs.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director on strategic areas of focus related to compensation structure and design. Oversee compensation analysis, including periodic compensation studies for various groups of employees. Ensure alignment of roles and responsibilities with compensation, along with location-based variances.
• Provide general oversite of payroll processing, accuracy, and efficiency. Support Payroll & Operations Manager as needed with complex functions, payroll system upgrades, and special projects.
• Oversee Human Resources systems, reporting, and data integrity to support compliance, operational efficiency, accurate recordkeeping, and informed decision-making.
• Utilize HR metrics and analytics to identify trends, support workforce planning, assess program effectiveness, and make recommendations to Firm leadership.
• Ensure appropriate Human Resources recordkeeping, documentation, and internal processes are maintained in accordance with legal requirements and Firm standards.

Benefits

• A competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development within a dynamic and supportive environment.
• A collaborative culture that values innovation, integrity, and inclusivity.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees