Director of Human Resources

Salary: Oakland, CA: $190,000 $245,000 Los Angeles, CA: $185,000 $240,000 San Diego, CA: $175,000 $225,000 RESPONSIBILITIES: Human Resources Leadership & Strategy Develop, implement, and maintain HR policies, procedures, and best practices in compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws Partner closely with firm leadership, Directors, Managers, and HR team members to ensure consistent and effective HR operations across all offices Serve as a strategic advisor on employee relations, workforce planning, organizational development, and personnel matters Lead and oversee internal investigations, progressive discipline processes, performance management issues, and employee terminations when necessary Provide leadership coaching, employee counseling, conflict resolution support, and performance guidance to managers and staff Foster a professional, inclusive, and collaborative work environment grounded in accountability and mutual respect Maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment when handling highly sensitive employee and organizational matters Talent Acquisition & Employee Management Oversee recruiting and hiring processes for non-attorney business professional positions across all offices Develop hiring strategies and obtain approvals for open positions Manage candidate screening, background investigations, onboarding, and orientation processes Oversee employee performance evaluation programs for attorneys and business professionals Administer annual compensation reviews, salary adjustments, and bonus processes for business professional staff Manage employee departures, transition processes, exit interviews, and related documentation Support long-term talent development and retention initiatives Compensation, Benefits & HR Operations Oversee administration of employee benefit programs, policies, and compliance procedures Ensure HR practices align with applicable labor laws, firm policies, and industry standards Prepare annual HR budgets and long-term workforce planning initiatives Direct implementation and adherence to operational and financial objectives related to HR programs Collaborate with leadership to proactively identify and resolve personnel and organizational issues Maintain and improve HR systems, processes, and reporting capabilities Travel between office locations as needed to support operational and business objectives Additional Responsibilities Maintain current knowledge of employment law developments, HR trends, and industry best practices Participate in professional organizations and continuing education opportunities Support special projects, operational initiatives, and additional duties as assigned Maintain dependable attendance and flexibility in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelors degree required; advanced degree preferred Professional HR certifications preferred including SHRM, HRCI, CLM, CEBS, or similar credentials Minimum 810 years of progressive HR leadership or employment law experience, preferably within a law firm or professional services environment Strong experience handling employee relations, organizational leadership, conflict resolution, and performance management Excellent interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills Strong written and verbal communication skills with exceptional attention to detail Ability to manage multiple priorities and shifting business needs effectively Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across departments and leadership levels High level of professionalism, discretion, and confidentiality Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and HR systems including HRIS, payroll, performance management, and background check platforms IDEAL CANDIDATE: Strategic and solutions-oriented HR leader Professional, approachable, and highly dependable Strong leadership presence with excellent judgment and emotional intelligence Comfortable handling sensitive and complex employee matters Able to balance strategic initiatives with day-to-day operational responsibilities Effective communicator with strong collaboration and coaching skills Organized and adaptable in a fast-paced professional environment Committed to fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture