Head of Employee Relations & HR Compliance

Join the Human Resources department of a fast‑paced law firm.

The salary range for the position is $100,000 - $135,000, based on years of experience.

This position has primary responsibility for all aspects of the Human Resources function, including compensation and benefits, policy development and administration, employee relations, performance management, staffing, training and development, recruiting, compliance, and personnel records management. The individual oversees the HR Generalist, HRIS Specialist and legal support managers. Successful candidates will nurture our innovative and collaborative culture while bringing rigor and creativity to our internal processes and people management.

Performance Management

• Manage the annual and mid‑year performance evaluation process.
• Advise, coach, and participate in complex performance matters as requested.

Employee Relations & Recognition

• Promote positive employee engagement and satisfaction across all levels of the firm, through open communication, feedback and recognition programs.
• Develop and maintain employee recognition programming.
• Administer years of service program.
• Provide open‑door accessibility to all personnel for employee relations issues and coach managers and practice group leaders on related matters.
• Oversee and administer total rewards benefits platform.
• Work with the HR Generalist to execute all aspects of employee benefit programs and changes as required.
• Manage benefits‑related communication, education and advocacy for all employees.
• Manage and ensure compliance with the 401(k) plan.
• Facilitate and manage leaves of absence and other time‑off benefits.
• Oversee the HRIS Specialist in managing all benefits and onboarding setup within UKG to facilitate smooth enrollment processes and accurate payment of employees.
• Complete industry salary surveys.
• Administer the annual merit increase process for support staff.

Recruitment

• Work closely with the HR Generalist to direct the recruitment and selection of a high‑performing workforce.
• Consult with hiring managers to identify current and future workforce needs and translate into job specifications.
• Facilitate the selection process and provide training in recruitment techniques. Conduct and/or supervise the HR staff in conducting screenings, references, background checks, job offers and other logistical tasks associated with recruitment.

Records & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all local, state and federal law postings and procedures.
• Manage and support state unemployment accounts and claims.
• Develop new policies and provide enforcement and interpretation as needed.
• Maintain confidential personnel and benefit records.
• Provide accountability for ongoing documentation of HR internal processes.
• Facilitate administration of sensitivity and non‑discrimination training.

Training & Development

• Provide overall guidance and recommend resources to ensure adequate training for staff in the skills they need to perform their jobs. Identify skill gaps and training opportunities.
• Develop and implement an orientation program for new employees to ensure they gain an understanding of benefit plans, enrollment provisions and firm policies and procedures.
• Identify and implement improvements to the various systems and processes that provide infrastructure to the HR function.
• Maintain and oversee the HR budget.
• Supervise the HR Generalist, HRIS Specialist, Legal Assistant Support Managers and Legal Assistant staff.
• Provide support and guidance to administrative managers and directors in overseeing their teams.
• Serve on firm DEIB initiatives in support of policy, compliance and adoption.
• Manage consultant and vendor relations for a variety of HR functions.

Qualifications

• Solid base of knowledge and understanding of the human resources field and concepts as well as related administrative practices.
• Degree in Human Resources Management, Industrial Relations or similar is highly desirable.
• Prior experience in a law firm or professional services environment is highly desirable.
• Strong organizational, planning and time‑management skills.
• Effective communication skills including writing, listening, and speaking.
• Management and supervisory skills.
• Requires periodic travel to Merchant & Gould’s offices.
• Requires sitting and computer‑related activities for an extended period of time.

Benefits

We are equally committed to providing competitive, affordable health and wellness benefits to help take care of yourself and your family, including a competitive salary with a bonus plan, a comprehensive benefits package that includes employee medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D insurance, short‑ and long‑term disability, 401(k) match, parenting leave, and ten firm holidays.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Merchant & Gould provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Accessibility

We welcome candidates with disabilities. If you need any accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please contact our Human Resources Department at View email address: on click.appcast.io.