At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead people strategy and culture initiatives to drive growth and exceptional client experiences.
- Company: A forward-thinking law firm with a focus on transparency and client needs.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to innovation and exceptional service.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a leading law firm while championing diversity and inclusion.
- Qualifications: Extensive HR leadership experience in professional services and strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
The company
A new style of law firm, we’re trusted by clients because we focus on what matters: delivering practical advice and transparency on costs. We understand your needs and are committed to a user-friendly style of business.
Our firm providesclients with unparalleled access to one of the largest legal resources in Scotland. With a team of over 250 lawyers, we seamlessly integrate business acumen with innovative approaches, guaranteeing exceptional client service and unrivalled expertise.
We work with clients in all key sectors within the Scottish economy. Our strength comes from our collaborative relationships and our breadth of connections. We have an extensive network of clients and contacts throughout Scotland, as well as strong links to the wider UK and international markets.
The role
This role can be based at either our Edinburgh or Glasgow offices. As a member of our Executive Committee, the CPO acts as the firm’s chief adviser on all people and culture matters, shaping strategy, challenging and supporting senior leaders to drive sustainable commercial performance and an exceptional client experience aligned to the firm\'s growth ambitions.
With the support of your People team, the CPO will focus on the following areas:
Strategic Leadership
- Shapes and delivers the People Strategy aligned to the firm’s vision, strategy and growth plans.
- Provides courageous and constructive challenge to ExCo and partners to ensure people decisions align with the firm’s strategic and financial goals.
- Champions the commercial leadership of people to drive growth ambitions aligned to best practice.
Commercial Partnering
- Translates people data into insight that informs decisions on profitability, resourcing and client service delivery.
- Develops and deploys workforce analytics to inform capacity, capability, productivity and reward strategies.
Culture & Engagement
- Leads the design and delivery of culture-shaping initiatives that support market focus, collaboration, client focus, and sustainable performance.
- Drives initiatives that improve engagement, retention and employer brand.
Talent & Leadership
- Oversees talent acquisition, learning & development, talent review, succession planning and career pathways to ensure the firm has the right skills for the future.
- Strengthens leadership capability at all levels developing firm wide leadership development capability alongside leadership readiness programmes.
Reward & Performance
- Develops, implements and reviews fair, competitive and commercially viable reward strategies.
- Ensures performance management systems drive accountability, client-focused behaviours and business outcomes.
Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging
- Champions diversity, inclusion and belonging as drivers of talent attraction, retention, innovation and client value.
- Builds and delivers a DIB strategy that both drives the firm\'s growth agenda and supports the delivery of a great place to work
Operational Excellence
- Ensure high-quality HR operations, policies, systems and compliance.
- Lead the People team to deliver consistent, professional and efficient service to the business.
The successful candidate
The firm is a leading independent Scottish law firm, operating in a highly competitive market that demands strong financial performance, excellent client service and a distinctive culture. The CPO partners with the CEO, ExCo and the Board to align people priorities with commercial strategy. The role requires the ability to challenge senior leaders constructively, providing insight and data-driven evidence to ensure decisions support long-term sustainable growth.
- Outstanding senior HR Director/ People leader with significant experience in complex professional services or partnership or similar type environments.
- Strong analytical and data-driven mindset: able to interpret complex workforce, financial and market data to influence decision-making
- Resilient and persuasive, with the gravitas to influence senior partners and challenge constructively at Board / ExCo/partner and leadership level.
- Experience of leading cultural and organisational change.
- Deep knowledge of talent, reward, L&D, workforce planning, diversity and employee engagement.
- High personal credibility and professional integrity.
- Evidence of Continuous Professional Development (CPD)
- Chartered/Fellow membership of an appropriate accredited Professional Institution(s) is preferred.
How to apply
To apply, please send your CV to Jaclyn Needham, Director at FWB to applications@fwbltd.com or for an initial confidential discussion, please contact her on 0131 539 7087.
Morton Fraser MacRoberts (MFMac) - Chief People Officer in Chelmsford employer: FWB
Morton Fraser MacRoberts is an exceptional employer that prioritises a collaborative and inclusive work culture, fostering professional growth and development for its employees. With offices in both Edinburgh and Glasgow, the firm offers a dynamic environment where innovative thinking and strategic leadership are encouraged, ensuring that team members can thrive while contributing to the firm's ambitious growth plans. Employees benefit from a strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and a supportive atmosphere that values transparency and engagement, making it a rewarding place to build a career in the legal sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Morton Fraser MacRoberts (MFMac) - Chief People Officer in Chelmsford
✨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 FWB!
✨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 FWB.
We think you need these skills to ace Morton Fraser MacRoberts (MFMac) - Chief People Officer in Chelmsford
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 FWB. 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 FWB 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 FWB. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to FWB'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 FWB
✨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 FWB.
✨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 FWB 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 FWB and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
