HR Specialist at Freshfields

Position Summary

The HR Specialist will partner closely with the HR Business Partner to support the delivery of people initiatives and day-to-day HR support across the U.S. Business Services population. This role will serve as a key resource for managers and employees, helping to coordinate core HR processes, support employee engagement initiatives, assist with performance management activities, and contribute to the successful execution of HR programs and projects.

This is an excellent opportunity for an HR professional looking to broaden their experience and develop toward a future HR Business Partner career path.

Key Responsibilities

HR Business Partner Support

• Partner closely with the HR Business Partner to support Business Services leaders and employees across the U.S.
• Provide day-to-day guidance and support on HR policies, processes, and programs.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with managers and employees.
• Help identify employee concerns and partner with the HR Business Partner to support appropriate solutions.

Performance Management & Employee Support

• Support the administration and coordination of performance management processes, including review cycles, goal setting, performance documentation, and follow-up actions.
• Assist HRBP in preparing performance improvement plans.
• Support managers and employees with leave administration, accommodations, well-being matters, and other employee-related inquiries.
• Conduct initial intake and fact gathering for employee relations matters, escalating issues appropriately and partnering with the HR Business Partner and Employee Relations team as needed.

Talent, Engagement & Development

• Assist in coordinating employee engagement initiatives, including surveys, feedback collection, and follow-up actions.
• Support talent and development processes, including career development discussions, talent reviews, and succession planning activities.
• Help coordinate learning and development opportunities for Business Services employees.

HR Projects & Process Coordination

• Support the planning and execution of key HR initiatives, including performance reviews, compensation processes, promotions, onboarding, and talent programs.
• Coordinate project plans, timelines, communications, meeting materials, and stakeholder follow-up activities.
• Track action items and ensure timely completion of deliverables across multiple HR initiatives.
• Prepare presentations, employee communications, and supporting documentation for HR programs and meetings.

HR Operations & Administration

• Maintain employee records and HR documentation in Workday and other HR systems.
• Assist with HR data audits and ensure data accuracy and integrity. Coordinate employee lifecycle activities and support operational HR processes as needed.
• Help streamline processes and identify opportunities to improve the employee and manager experience.

Qualifications

Required

• 3-5 years of progressive Human Resources experience.
• Experience supporting managers and employees in a professional services, legal, consulting, financial services, or similarly fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational and project coordination skills.
• Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with professionalism and discretion.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Experience using Workday or a similar HRIS platform.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.

Preferred

• Experience within a law firm or professional services environment.
• Exposure to performance management, employee relations, talent management, and employee engagement programs.
• Demonstrated interest in pursuing a career path toward HR Business Partnering.

Success Factors

• Strong judgment and professionalism.
• Collaborative and team-oriented mindset.
• Proactive approach with a willingness to learn.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Adaptability and comfort working in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to delivering high-quality service and building trusted relationships.
• Positive attitude, curiosity, and continuous learning orientation.

For individuals assigned and/or hired to work in New York and California or reporting to someone in those states, Freshfields is required by law to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. This compensation range is specific to the States of New York and California and takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs. The disclosed range estimate has not been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled, and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range is $90,000 - $110,000.

EEO Statement

Freshfields US LLP is proud to be an equal employment employer. Our policies and practices will be free from unlawful discrimination based upon race, color, ethnicity, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions), national origin, citizenship, immigration status, ancestry, age, marital status, protected veteran status, military service, disability, medical condition, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any basis prohibited under federal, state or local law. We strive to promote an atmosphere that encourages equal opportunities and prohibits discriminatory practices, including sexual harassment.

Disability Accommodation for Applicants to Freshfields US LLP

Freshfields US LLP is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and provides reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in job application procedures. If you have any difficulty using our online system and you need an accommodation due to a disability, you may use the alternative email address below to contact us about your interest in employment at [email protected] , or you can send your resume to [email protected] , or you can call us at +1-212-277-4000.