At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting HR projects and drive organisational change in a dynamic law firm.
- Company: Join Freshfields, a top international law firm with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid work, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to inclusion and equal opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of HR while exploring innovative AI applications.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR project management and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Freshfields is a leading international law firm advising the world's most influential businesses, financial institutions, and governments on their most complex, high-stakes challenges. With offices spanning the globe and a culture built on exceptional talent and genuine collaboration, we are, at our core, a people business. Our HR function is a strategic partner to the firm, working across every practice group and business services function to deliver a people agenda that is ambitious, global, and continuously evolving.
The Role
We are looking for an experienced HR Project Manager who brings a consulting mindset, structured, analytical, and comfortable operating at both strategic altitude and execution-level detail, to help us accelerate the delivery of a large and varied portfolio of HR initiatives currently underway across the firm. You will work side by side with HRBPs and HR Centres of Excellence to drive projects spanning organisational design, workforce planning, change management, talent strategy, and continuous improvement. Looking ahead, this role will also play an active part in exploring how AI can practically reshape and enhance how our HRBP community works, an exciting frontier for anyone who wants to be part of shaping, not just observing, where HR is heading. This role can be based in the US (New York, Washington DC, Raleigh, or Boston) or in the UK, operating on a hybrid basis.
What You’ll Do
- Lead end-to-end planning and delivery of cross-functional HR projects, from organisational design and restructuring to talent and workforce initiatives.
- Build and maintain detailed project plans, stakeholder maps, timelines, and communications strategies.
- Track progress rigorously, surface risks early, resolve issues, and report clearly on milestones and impact.
- Support HRBPs in diagnosing organisational effectiveness and shaping practical improvement strategies.
- Serve as the connective tissue between HRBPs and COEs, including Talent Acquisition, L&D, Total Rewards, and People Analytics.
- Design and execute change management plans that drive smooth transitions and genuine employee engagement.
- Identify inefficiencies and implement scalable solutions that improve how HR operates across the firm.
- Analyse HR metrics and employee feedback to inform priorities and measure outcomes.
- Contribute to the firm’s exploration of AI capabilities and their practical application within the HR function.
What You’ll Bring
- Demonstrable experience of hands‑on HR project management or HR programme delivery, with a clear track record of leading complex, cross‑functional work.
- A consulting-type lens: structured thinking, sharp analytical instincts, and the ability to move from insight to action.
- Proven ability to manage multiple concurrent projects in a matrixed, fast‑moving environment without losing rigour or pace.
- Strong working knowledge of HR functions, HRBP models, and organisational change practices.
- Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills, credible at every level.
- Bonus: experience in large‑scale transformation or high‑growth environments.
Inclusion
Freshfields is an equal opportunities employer and all applications received by the firm will be considered by the firm on the basis of their merit alone and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals regardless of background.
HR Project Manager employer: Freshfields
Freshfields is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that thrives on collaboration and innovation. With a strong focus on employee growth, the HR Project Manager role provides opportunities to lead impactful projects while exploring cutting-edge AI applications in HR. Located in major cities across the US and UK, Freshfields supports a hybrid working model, ensuring a flexible and inclusive environment for all employees.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Project Manager
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at Freshfields!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at Freshfields.
We think you need these skills to ace HR Project Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at Freshfields. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to Freshfields and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at Freshfields. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Freshfields's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Freshfields
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with Freshfields.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at Freshfields will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact Freshfields and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
