Location: East Midlands (with regular travel across the firm) Contract: Permanent The opportunity We are seeking an experienced HR Business Partner to join our HR team at an exciting point in the evolution of our HR operating model. This role plays a critical part in embedding a true business partnering approach, working closely with Divisional Heads and senior stakeholders to align people strategy with business priorities. The role is ideally suited to an HR professional with previous experience in a law firm or professional services environment, who is commercially minded, confident influencing senior leaders, and comfortable operating at pace. Regular travel across the firm will be required, therefore flexibility and a willingness to be visible within the business is essential. Key responsibilities As an HR Business Partner, you will: Act as a trusted strategic advisor to Divisional Heads and senior stakeholders, translating business plans into aligned people strategies Drive delivery of the people plan across your Division, strengthening culture, engagement, performance and talent outcomes Shape and deliver a consistent, high‑quality employee and stakeholder experience aligned to the firm’s values and culture Lead and influence on workforce planning, succession planning, organisational design, promotions and salary review activity Use people data, MI and HR analytics to identify trends, inform decision‑making and measure the impact of people initiatives Prepare reports and present insights at Divisional People & Development and leadership meetings Drive performance management processes including check‑ins, feedback, goal setting and development planning Provide expert guidance on complex employee relations matters, ensuring compliance with employment law and firm policies Work in partnership with Centres of Excellence (L&D, Recruitment, EDI, Responsible Business, Future Talent, Finance, BD, Innovation) using an account‑management approach Partner closely with Learning & Development to identify capability gaps, support career pathways and implement targeted development solutions Champion continuous improvement, keeping up to date with HR best practice, sector trends and emerging developments (including digital and AI‑enabled HR) About you You will bring: Proven experience operating as an HR Business Partner within a law firm or professional services environment Strong capability to influence and challenge senior stakeholders with credibility and confidence A solid working knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practice Experience managing complex employee relations cases independently Confidence working with data and HR systems (e.g. Workday), translating insight into clear narratives and actions Excellent communication, coaching and relationship‑building skills A commercial mindset with the ability to balance risk, pragmatism and business outcomes A proactive, continuous improvement approach and appetite for operating in an evolving organisational model Flexibility to travel regularly across office locations as required Why join us You’ll be joining a firm that is investing in its people agenda and moving towards a more strategic, insight‑led HR Business Partnering model. This role offers genuine scope to influence, shape thinking, and play a visible role in supporting the firm’s future growth. Smart. Bold. Together. We Are Freeths. Become part of the team at Freeths. View some of our recent highlights on our website here. Do we sound like a match? If you’re someone who cares deeply, communicates openly and collaborates effectively, then we’d love to have you join our diverse, inclusive team.