Manager/Director of Human Resources and Benefits
Description
:
Banner Witcoff is a leader in intellectual property law for more than 100 years. We are the trusted IP partner of choice for organizations around the world. We provide sound legal guidance and inventive IP solutions to power business for start-ups, Fortune 500 companies, and everything in between.
We pride ourselves on our relentless attention to detail and place an immense value on providing exceptional service, both internally and externally. We work as individuals, as team members, and as part of a growing and innovative law firm.
We are seeking an experienced and strategic Human Resources and Benefits professional to join our team as either a Manager or Director, depending on experience and qualifications. This is a leadership position responsible for overseeing all aspects of our firm’s people strategy as well as ensuring compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.
This is a hybrid role and will report to the Director of Operations.
Key Responsibilities:
HR Operations
Oversee and manage a team of human resources and benefits staff across our office firm’s office locations.
Oversee HR systems, data management, and reporting.
Drive process improvements for onboarding and offboarding, performance tracking, and HR service delivery.
Lead and maintain compliance with local and federal laws and regulations.
Complete EEOC survey and other surveys and filings.
Manage external vendors (e.g., recruiters, benefits providers).
Talent Acquisition, Development & Retention
Support the firm’s recruiting strategy for attorneys, technical specialists/patent agents, paralegals, and business support staff.
Oversee the firm’s annual performance review processes.
Provide guidance and training on employee development and retention plans, performance improvement plans, and termination recommendations as needed.
Benefits Administration
Lead the design, administration, and ongoing evaluation of employee benefits programs, including medical, dental, vision, retirement, leave, and other offerings.
Coordinate with brokers, carriers, and vendors to ensure competitive and cost-effective benefits programs.
Manage annual open enrollment processes, employee communications, and education initiatives.
Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations including ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, FMLA, and related requirements.
Coordinate with leadership to oversee competitive compensation structures, benefits packages, and other programs to attract and retain top talent.
Collaborate with management and benefits team to manage leaves of absence and accommodation requests.
Employee Relations & Culture
Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performance firm culture.
Provide guidance on employee relations issues, conflict resolution, and workplace investigations.
Requirements and Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration or related field or corresponding experience
8+ years of progressively responsible HR experience, including leadership roles
Professional HR certification (e.g., SHRM-SCP, SPHR) preferred
Experience working in a law firm or professional services environment preferred
A strong ability to align talent strategy with business priorities
Strong knowledge of employment law, compliance, and risk mitigation practices
Proven experience leading performance development and other key people processes
Expertise in employee relations, including navigating sensitive situations with sound judgement
A proactive, solutions-oriented approach with the ability to lead through change and drive continuous improvement
The above list of duties and responsibilities is in no way a comprehensive list. From time to time, the employee may be required to perform other duties in support of the business. This position is a hybrid role, with a blend of remote and in-office work. The employee will be required to work in the office at least three days per week, or more, depending on business needs and/or work assignments.
Banner Witcoff offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including paid time off, medical/dental/vision insurance, 401(k), business-casual attire, and a friendly office environment.
Interested candidates should apply online by sending a resume and cover letter with salary requirements. The salary range for this role is between $125,000 - $180,000. This is an exempt position. This range is only applicable for jobs to be performed in Chicago, IL. This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee’s pay within the salary range will be based on numerous factors including, but not limited to, relevant education, qualifications, experience, skills, geographical location, and business or organizational needs. This job is also eligible for an annual merit increase and bonus pay.
Banner Witcoff is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. The Firm will not discriminate against any applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, sex, pregnancy, age, mental or physical disability, genetic information, legal citizenship or any other status protected by law.
Instructions to Recruiting Agencies and Search Firms
Banner Witcoff will not accept unsolicited resumes and will not pay a fee for any unsolicited submissions. We will not accept resumes from search firms or recruiters with which we do not have an established agreement, and any resume sent without request or prior approval from our recruiting coordinators will be considered unsolicited. In addition, please do not call or e-mail any attorney or staff at our firm without prior approval from our recruiting coordinators. Thank you for respecting our process.