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Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer (COO), the Director, Human Resources will plan, lead, direct, develop, and coordinate the policies and activities of the Firm, ensuring legal compliance and implementation of the Firm’s talent management strategy. The successful candidate will oversee the full talent management cycle from recruiting, on-boarding, performance coaching and management. The incumbent will provide strategic advice to the COO on all HR matters, work with both the Vancouver and Toronto offices, and serve as a member of the Equity, Diversity & Inclusion committee, Harassment Committee, Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery team, and the COVID-19 Response Team. Works full-time in the office; oversees the HR Advisor, direct report.
Organization Development
Leads, develops and implements effective firm-wide HR programs and services to meet strategic long and short-term needs of the firm .
Proactively consults with, coaches and advises Managers on all HR matters, including performance reviews, performance management, team innovation, career planning.
Evaluates and recommends ongoing professional development and training for staff.
Innovates the traditional law firm staffing model.
Manages the annual performance review and probation process for staff and Paralegals.
Conducts annual salary reviews for staff and Paralegals, including recommended adjustments to the COO.
Plans, organize and facilitate relevant firm-wide lunch-and-learns.
Assists the COO on the agenda and presentation for the firm’s Quarterly Staff Meeting.
Participates as a member of the firm’s Equity, Diversity & Inclusion committee, Harassment Committee, Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery team, and the COVID-19 Response Team.
Recruiting & Onboarding
Initiates and develops firm-wide workforce planning needs.
Oversees the research and creation of position specific job descriptions.
Leads the recruitment and selection process for all support positions (Paralegals, Legal Administrative Assistants (LAA), Managers, Accounting, Marketing, IT, Office Services, and support staff) including job placement, pre-screening candidates, liaising with agencies, coordination of interviews, shortlisting of candidates for second interviews and reference/background checks.
Oversees new hire processes including the onboarding process; as well as off-boarding departing employees.
Recommends compensation for new hires consistent with internal equity, established policies, and market salary data.
Operations
Oversees the HR Advisor (direct report) who performs the following HR functions:
Day-to-day staffing needs and float coverage to ensure sufficient coverage.
Utilizes the HRIS and available technology to streamline administrative functions.
Maintain and update the Firm’s Office Manual including all HR policies and procedures.
Coordinates new staff orientation schedules, schedules exit interviews.
Administers the Firm’s health and benefits program.
Coordinates HR Intranet notices for staff changes and employee announcements.
Manages and reconciles attendance, overtime, and vacation through the HRIS.
Maintain staff list for anniversary dates, special notes, and assignments.
Plan and execute select internal events such as the summer social, holiday party, staff recognition events, etc.
Recognize staff on anniversaries and special occasions.
Assists with the annual performance review process and scheduling.
Co-Chairs the workplace health activities, compliance as well as safety and fire drills.
KEY QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor degree in business/human resources or relevant educational background.
CPHR designation highly preferred.
At least 7 years of human resources management experience with at least 3-5 years in a leadership capacity.
Professional services experience is preferred.
Ability to keep apprised of HR trends and implement best practices to enhance employee engagement.
Proven knowledge of employment law, human rights and other relevant legislation (Provincial ESA in BC and ON, and Workplace safety).
SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES
Strong leadership abilities even when not in charge or designated leader.
Ability to stay calm and respectful when under pressure.
Demonstrated self confidence and ability to lead organizational change.
Proactive approach to work; backs-up (with reliable data) plans.
Proven ability to innovate the traditional law firm staffing model.
Thorough knowledge of employment related laws and statutes.
Strong conflict resolution skills and to come up with solutions that meet the needs of the firm and the parties involved.
Highly organized and excellent project management skills.
Exceptional interpersonal and conflict resolution skills including demonstrated strength in both verbal and written communication skills.
A high level of comfort with public speaking and making presentations.
The ability to work both collaboratively with colleagues as well as independently on complex issues.
Reliable and impeccable work ethic.
Sound business judgment and discretion in handling sensitive and confidential information.
