Human Resources Director - Swanson Martin and Bell LLP

The Human Resources Director is responsible for the business and non-legal aspects of the firm, focusing on short- and long-term operational issues, as well as providing support for strategic planning. The ideal candidate will operate comfortably across a spectrum of people and responsibilities, including human resources, administration, technology, facilities, marketing, and business development.

This position is based in Chicago, Illinois, and reports to the Chief Financial Officer with periodic reports to the Managing Partner and Executive Committee. The successful candidate will have excellent academic credentials with proven management experience and skills.

Responsibilities of Human Resources Director

• Ensure policies/procedures, determined by the Executive Committee, are implemented, followed, and monitored in all firm offices, making recommendations when the need for innovation or improvement is observed.
• Overall responsibility for general administration, compliance, growth, and special projects. Foster effective teamwork to address issues related to human resources, office facilities, marketing, use of technology, purchasing, systems/procedure changes, and long-range planning.
• Attend Partnership, and Executive Committee meetings; prepare minutes and supporting materials. Attend Practice Team and other committee meetings as requested. Under the direction of the Chief Financial Officer, coordinate the implementation of policies, procedures, and other initiatives to achieve strategic results.
• Serve as a business counselor by assisting the Executive Committee with overall strategic input.  Plan and assist in the successful onboarding and integration of new practices
• Ensure firm management is equipped with the resources necessary to support all strategic and operating functions.
• Establish/maintain good working relationships and decision-making practices, collaborating with different levels of firm personnel and diverse groups of people, understanding and building on the firm's history and culture.

Qualifications

• Strong administrative, management, and leadership skills. Capable of working with limited direction, providing leadership and strategic guidance to others.
• Demonstrated ability to rapidly analyze issues, anticipate consequences, make decisions, and initiate action.
• Excellent oral and written skills to communicate complex information and ideas tactfully and effectively to personnel at all levels of the firm, sometimes under pressure in the presence of strongly held opposing viewpoints.
• Strong interpersonal skills to create a firm-minded atmosphere of mutual respect, trust, and openness, and encourage resourcefulness.
• Solid understanding of the importance of client relationships and the need for consistent and excellent client service, ensuring operational and technological support.
• Highly organized, with keen attention to detail, and self-directed in work approach.

Preferred Education & Certification

• Master’s degree in human resources or business-related field from an accredited college or university
• SPHR or PHR Certification

Required Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in human resources or a business-related field, from an accredited college or university
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive management experience, preferably in a law firm setting, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.