Human Resource & Development Manager

Human Resources & Development Manager

Location: Washington, DC (Hybrid)

Onsite Expectation: 4 days per week

Direct Reports: 1

A highly respected international law firm is seeking a Human Resources & Development Manager to oversee attorney talent operations for its Washington, DC office. This role is ideal for a legal‑industry talent professional who excels at building strong relationships, managing attorney lifecycle programs, and driving thoughtful, strategic initiatives that support lawyer development and engagement.

The Manager is responsible for the delivery of all attorney personnel, evaluation, development, and retention programs within the DC office. Acting as a trusted advisor to attorneys and firm leadership, this role will drive key talent processes, manage attorney onboarding/offboarding, lead review cycles, support committees, and partner closely with the broader firmwide Legal Personnel & Development team.

• Oversee attorney evaluation, retention, compensation, and promotion processes.
• Lead semi‑annual review cycles, including feedback analysis, messaging, and development follow‑up.
• Manage onboarding, integration, promotions, transfers, offboarding, and outplacement support.
• Serve as primary contact for attorney leaves of absence and part‑time arrangements.
• Provide guidance on employee relations issues, career questions, and personnel matters.
• Support office committees including parenting and associate engagement groups.

• Ensure successful implementation of firmwide talent strategies, goals, and programs in the DC office.
• Monitor and manage the attorney talent budget for the DC office.
• Lead and develop the local Legal Personnel & Development team.
• Identify industry trends and make recommendations for new initiatives or improvements.
• Support various firmwide or department‑wide special projects as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Ideally 8+ years of experience in legal personnel, attorney recruiting, or law‑firm talent management.
• Prior management or team‑leadership experience required.
• Strong understanding of law‑firm structures and attorney‑development processes.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• High attention to detail, strong analytical ability, and excellent time management.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Proficiency with Excel, PowerPoint, Oracle, and vi Desktop preferred.
• Ability to independently manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.

• A relationship‑builder who can earn trust across all seniority levels.
• A proactive problem‑solver who can balance operational detail with strategic thinking.
• Someone who enjoys working closely with attorneys and influencing talent outcomes.
• A calm, organized professional who performs well under shifting demands.