Main information
* Experience level:
Advanced
- Term type:
Permanent
- Team:
HR
- Location:
Birmingham or Northampton
The role
This role is an integral part of the wider People Directorate, contributing to the delivery of a high-quality and cost-effective HR advisory service. A collaborative approach is paramount, as this role involves supporting the HR Business Partner, and working positively and flexibly with colleagues across the People Directorate and Firm.
This role will act as a trusted adviser to Business Services management and colleagues, providing expert advice on people strategy, employee relations, organisational design, and workforce planning. The role will also support wider projects and initiatives.
The team
This role sits within HR Advisory, one of the core teams within the People Directorate. The team comprises HR Business Partners, Senior HR Advisors and Employee Relations specialists and is headed up by our Head of HR. The team undertake responsibility for a business unit, this role will be supporting Business Services, Conveyancing and Shoosmiths Eight.
The HR Advisory team works alongside specialist people teams covering Performance & Talent Development, Talent Acquisition, HR Benefits, Reward and Operations, and Responsible Business. We play a pivotal role in the effective operation of the firm where we are strategic partners to the business who put people and society at the heart of what we do.
Main responsibilities
* Support talent acquisition and onboarding processes to ensure a seamless experience for new hires within Business Services and other Business Units.
* Support the HR Business Partner to develop and implement initiatives around performance management, succession planning, and talent development.
* Manage and resolve employee relations cases in line with employment law and firm policy.
* Support with engagement, and retention initiatives, fostering a positive work culture and promoting psychological safety and inclusion.
* Utilise HR technology and data analytics to deliver insights on workforce trends, enabling data-driven decision-making.
* Support the delivery of HR policies, processes, and programs in compliance with local regulations and global standards.
* Support and advise on terms and conditions of employment, reward and recognition, job categorisation and pay reviews.
* Lead or support organisational change processes, including restructures, consultations, and TUPE.
* Provide coaching and guidance to managers on HR best practices, leadership, and team management.
* Lead or contribute to HR projects and firm-wide initiatives, driving continuous improvement and innovation.
* Manage the flexible workforce team in collaboration with Talent Acquisition, HR Ops, and the Resource team.
* Providing support and assistance to all employees in respect of health and wellbeing.
* Support the leaver process and conduct exit interviews as required, analyse leaver data and report analysis as relevant.
* Lead by example and enhance Shoosmiths' reputation as an employer of choice both locally and in the various disciplines of the Firm.
* Any other reasonable tasks and duties as directed by People Director, Head of HR or HR Business Partner.
* Be an ambassador of the Firm's Values and strive for excellence in all tasks and responsibilities.
Skills and Qualifications
* Ideally CIPD qualified or studying towards qualification.
* At least 3 years' experience within an Advisory role within professional services (ideally Legal).
* Strong IT skills are desirable, particularly proficiency with PowerPoint, data analytics, use of AI tools, and familiarity with SAP HR systems.
* Professional, self-confident and calm approach.
* Strong communication skills, ability to present in front of Directors/Senior Leaders and management
* Highly organised with the ability to prioritise and work under pressure and meet deadlines.
* Excellent client service skills.
* Able to work independently and collaboratively.
* International experience desirable.
The firm
Shoosmiths is the law firm clients choose for excellent service, incisive thinking and above all for our ability to focus on what matters. From offices across the UK and Brussels, we support some of the world's most exciting and ambitious businesses; amazing clients making an impact. We empower our people to be their authentic selves and deliver together in supportive teams committed to excellence and innovation. The first top 50 law firm to achieve 'Platinum Standard' Investors in People, our values and culture are not just words on our website but are the heartbeat of the firm.
We have an outstanding benefits package to complement our competitive remuneration system. In addition to the competitive salaries, great working environment and high-quality work, we believe that all staff should be rewarded for their commitment to the continued success of the firm through a comprehensive and flexible range of benefits.
Equal opportunities
Our approach to our people is underpinned by our approach to diversity, inclusion and well-being. Our ambition is to build a diverse and ambitious workforce that reflects all backgrounds and talents, and a workplace that is supportive and inclusive, recognises and nurtures talent, and has a strong sense of community between colleagues.
This means that everyone who either applies to or works for the firm is treated equally, whatever their gender, age, ethnic origin, nationality, marital status, disability, sexual orientation or religious beliefs.
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