Associate Director of Human Resources
Baker Botts

An integral part of the Human Resources team, this position is the primary Human Resources contact for all escalated employee relations complaints and concerns and is responsible for managing a range of activities related to employee relations, staffing, and talent management. The Associate Director of Human Resources reports to the Firm’s Director of Human Resources. This is a Firmwide, full-time, exempt position resident in the New York office.

Primary Responsibilities

• Develops and implements the Firm’s talent management strategy, partnering with with managers on all aspects of performance management and skill development and career progression. Takes lead in driving the Staff Evaluation Process, the 90 Day Evaluation Process, and Year-End Salary and Bonus administration.
• Oversees Firm HR Business Partners, HR Managers and HR Staff Recruiter
• Manages the resolution of employee relations issues, initiating and conducting the investigation of employee complaints in consultation with legal counsel where appropriate. Prepares written reports with findings and recommendations for resolution. Researches complex employee relations matters and consults with legal counsel to ensure compliance with appropriate laws and regulations. Drafts appropriate correspondence and documentation where necessary.
• Partners with other members of the HR team to organize and/or conduct training for managers and staff.
• Oversees the Staff Exit Interview Process (conducted by HR Business Partners, once the Firm is fully staffed) and utilizes the collected data to track retention trends.
• Reviews internal firmwide HR communications to ensure compliance with Firm policies and various federal and local laws and regulations
• Oversees the handling of unemployment claims and EEO complaints.
• Regularly reviews the Firm policy manual and updates, as appropriate.
• Assists Senior Management with the legal use of independent contractors and preparation and/or review of appropriate contracts or other agreements where necessary.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree required, advanced degree a plus.
• SPHR or SHRM-SCP certification preferred, but not required.
• Seven plus years of employee relations experience.
• Experienced in conducting complex investigations with little to no guidance.
• Demonstrated problem solving and creative conflict management skills.
• Strong client relationship, critical thinking, negotiations and consulting/influencing skills.
• Ability to handle matters of confidentiality and/or sensitivity with the utmost tact and diplomacy.
• Expertise in state specific employment laws, wage and hour guidelines and federal, state and local regulations.
• Ability to see the "big picture" business perspective, but able to "roll up their sleeves" and do whatever it takes to get the job done.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a demonstrated ability to provide leadership as well as guidance and assistance to all levels of employees.
• Able to thrive in a fast-paced environment, with strong communication skills in writing, email, videoconference, and phone formats and knowing which format is best for each situation.
• Ability to build collaborative working relationships across disciplines, with different management levels, and with various personalities.
• Ability to work with grace under pressure and have an adaptable style.
• Strong Microsoft skills particularly in Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Knowledge of CA and NY employment law and regulations preferred.

• This position requires contact with individuals within the firm as follows:
  • a high degree of contact within the HR team
  • a high degree of interaction with staff managers, Directors and Chiefs
• This position requires contact with individuals outside the firm as follows:
  • a moderate degree of contact with vendors/suppliers
  • a moderate degree of contact with applicants for staff positions

• Must be able to work at a computer and telephone for extensive periods of time.
• Must be able to routinely lift and carry files and other items up to 10 pounds; and
• Must be able to function in a standard office environment.
• Fully vaccinated for COVID-19, subject to accommodation.
• This role may be hybrid and will require a minimum of three days per week (or at least 60%) present in the office, and up to two days per week (40%) may be performed remotely.
• Ability to work well in high pressure environments.