Description
About us
Arthur Cox LLP is one of Ireland's leading law firms. We are an "all-island" firm with offices in Dublin and Belfast. We also have offices in London, New York, and San Francisco. Our practice encompasses all aspects of corporate and business law.
With 600 legal staff and a total headcount of nearly 900, we provide a comprehensive service to an international client base ranging from multinational organisations, banks, and financial institutions and established global leaders to government agencies and new players in emerging industry sectors.
Our story has been defined by our progressive outlook. For over 100 years, we have led the way in the legal field in Ireland. For our clients, we work to deliver the best service and support. With an independent, entrepreneurial spirit of innovation leading the way.
Background
The HR function in Arthur Cox plays a critical role in enabling the firm's strategic objectives by attracting, developing, and retaining top legal and business talent. It ensures the delivery of a high-performance culture rooted in professionalism, integrity, and client service.
HR is responsible for creating a compliant, inclusive, and supportive environment where lawyers and business services professionals can thrive. From managing evolving employment regulatory requirements to driving talent development and operational excellence, HR is a key partner in sustaining the firm's reputation and striving for excellence in our people experience.
About the Role
As the Head of HR Operations, you will lead the strategic and operational delivery of core HR services across the organisation. You will be responsible for optimising HR processes, systems, and policies to ensure efficiency, compliance, and a seamless employee experience.
Reporting to the Chief People Officer, this senior role is pivotal in driving operational excellence, supporting business growth, and enabling a high-performing HR function.
Key responsibilities will include overseeing the operational functions of the HR department, including our payroll delivery, ensuring compliance with legislation, managing key projects, and supporting HR colleagues and business stakeholders.
This role requires strong leadership, resilience, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
* Develop and execute the HR Operations strategy aligned with business goals.
* Lead transformation initiatives to modernise HR systems and processes.
* Partner with senior HR and business leaders to drive continuous improvement.
HR Service Delivery
* Oversee HR Shared Services, including employee lifecycle management, HRIS, and benefits administration.
* Manage our outsourced payroll delivery, ensuring compliance with audit obligations and driving effectiveness in notification and communication needs
* Ensure consistent and compliant HR practices across all regions and departments.
* Monitor and improve service delivery metrics and employee satisfaction.
Technology & Systems
* Own the HRIS roadmap and lead system implementations and upgrades.
* Drive automation and digitalisation of HR processes.
* Ensure data integrity, reporting accuracy, and analytics capability
* Oversea annual reporting requirements (Gender Pay Gap, Pay Transparency, etc)
Compliance & Risk Management
* Ensure compliance with employment laws, data protection regulations, and internal policies.
* Lead audits and manage risk mitigation strategies.
* Maintain governance frameworks and standard operating procedures.
Team Leadership
* Lead and develop a high-performing HR Operations team.
* Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.
* Provide coaching and mentorship to team members.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
* Bachelor's degree in HRM, Business Administration, or a related field.
* Proven experience in an HR Operations leadership role, ideally in a complex or global organisation.
* Strong knowledge of HR systems (e.g., Select HR, Workday, SAP SuccessFactors, Oracle).
* Familiarity with oversight of Payroll services
* Experience with HR transformation or change management programs.
* Familiarity with Shared Services or Centre of Excellence models.
* Strong project management skills and ability to lead cross-functional initiatives.
* Expertise in process optimisation, compliance, and service delivery.
* Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
* Strategic thinker with a hands-on approach and strong analytical capabilities.
Benefits
* Competitive salary and bonus structure
* Comprehensive health and wellness benefits
* Professional development opportunities
* Hybrid working arrangements
* Ability to drive innovation and have organisational level impact
About Arthur Cox
Arthur Cox is one of Ireland's leading law firms and provides a comprehensive service to an international client base ranging from multinational organisations, banks and financial institutions, established global leaders to government agencies and new players in emerging industry sectors. Our story has been defined by our progressive outlook. For over 100 years, the firm has led the way in the legal field in Ireland, delivering the best service and support for our clients. With an independent, entrepreneurial spirit of innovation leading the way.
Arthur Cox LLP is an equal opportunities employer. We value diversity and encourage applications from all sections of society. Please advise if you have any additional requirements, we will happily assist. Any information disclosed by you in this regard will be kept strictly confidential and shared within the firm only as necessary and with your consent.
Reasonable accommodations provided for the purposes of your interview or which you may require during your employment will not be taken into account in hiring decisions.