HR Process / Change Manager
Location: Manchester (with limited national and occasional global travel)
Contract: Fixed Term – 10 months
Reports to: Global Head of Continuous Improvement
About Freshfields
Freshfields is a leading international law firm, trusted by businesses worldwide for advice of the highest quality. We foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing environment where colleagues are empowered to excel. Our culture is built on integrity, respect, and continuous improvement, supporting professional growth and wellbeing through flexible working arrangements and fair access to opportunities.
The Opportunity
We are seeking an experienced HR Process / Change Manager to lead and deliver transformation initiatives within our HR function. This is a pivotal role that will shape the future of HR operations at Freshfields, driving operational excellence and enhancing the colleague experience across our global network.
What You’ll Do
1. Lead HR transformation projects using Lean Six Sigma and change management methodologies.
2. Design, document, and optimise HR processes in collaboration with HR, Continuous Improvement, and business stakeholders.
3. Standardise and scale HR processes globally, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
4. Quantify and communicate the impact of process changes on efficiency, cost, risk, and colleague experience.
5. Support HR technology and data strategy implementation.
6. Act as a change agent, facilitating workshops, conducting impact assessments, and driving adoption of new processes and technologies.
What We’re Looking For
7. Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (or equivalent) certification.
8. Degree in HR, Business, Information Systems, or related field.
9. Demonstrable experience in HR process design, engineering, or transformation in a global context.
10. Proven track record in leading large-scale change projects.
11. Strong analytical, project management, and stakeholder engagement skills.
12. Proficiency with HRIS and automation tools (e.g., Workday, ServiceNow, RPA).
13. Excellent communication, facilitation, and coaching abilities.
What We Value
14. A mindset of continuous improvement and operational excellence.
15. Ability to work collaboratively across functions and geographies.
16. Commercial awareness and strategic thinking.
17. Adaptability and resilience in a changing environment.
Why Join Us?
At Freshfields, you’ll be part of a global team that values innovation, collaboration, and professional growth. This is your chance to make a tangible impact on HR operations and help shape the future of our firm.
Ready to take the next step?
If you are passionate about driving HR transformation and continuous improvement, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and join us in shaping HR excellence at Freshfields.
Inclusion
Freshfields is an equal opportunities employer and all applications received by the firm will be considered by the firm on the basis of their merit alone and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals regardless of background. All offers of employment will be conditional on the candidate having/securing the right to work in the UK and providing the firm with evidence of that right (as required by the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006) prior to employment commencing.
Freshfields is a Ban the Box employer. We ask applicants to disclose criminal convictions only when a conditional job offer is made. A conviction does not automatically lead to withdrawal of the offer: we make decisions on a case by case basis and take a number of factors into account (eg the role you are applying for and the circumstances of the offence). You would have the opportunity to discuss the matter with us before we make a decision.