Manager, People Strategy

We invite you to review our current business services professionals openings to learn about the opportunities available across the firm.

About Us

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP has forged a reputation as one of the most prestigious law firms in the world. Relying on innovation, intellect, teamwork and tenacity, our lawyers deliver the highest quality advice and novel solutions to our clients’ legal issues. We are known for handling the most complex transactions, litigation/controversy issues, and regulatory matters, as well as for the strong partnerships we build with clients and each other. Our attorneys, who reflect a broad range of experiences and perspectives, work together seamlessly across 50-plus practices and 21 offices in the world’s major financial centers.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Manager, People Strategy to join the firm. Within this position, you will be responsible for managing career development, staffing, and operational processes while fostering a collaborative and supportive environment for attorneys. You will work closely with partners, practice leaders, and other Centers of Excellence (including Talent Acquisition, People Development and People Operations) and other Firm Departments (including Marketing and Business Development, Knowledge Management, Office Administration and Client Administration) to ensure the seamless execution of departmental goals and initiatives.

This position will be based in our New York, Los Angeles, or Palo Alto office and has a hybrid in-office/remote working schedule. Please note that the Firm will not sponsor applicants for work visas for this position.

Strategic Operations

• Acts as a primary point of connect for Practice Leaders, Attorney Development Partners, Partners and all Attorneys for all People Strategy initiatives.
• Facilitates coordination of cyclical events such as performance management processes, counsel and partner selection, and pipeline meetings.
• Oversees department communications and ensures alignment with firmwide objectives.
• Collaborates with the centralized Knowledge Management (KM) team to organize and optimize practice area resources.
• Liaise with BD/Marketing teams to align departmental/pipeline goals with broader firm strategies and understand the department’s business plan.
• Tracks alumni liaisons and facilitate secondments.
• Drives efficiency and effectiveness of department operations.
• Coordinates with Centers of Excellence (COEs) to implement strategic, practice-specific goals, including talent acquisition strategy, training and development needs and operational efficiencies  
• Supports staffing partners and practice leaders in planning, including considering global mobility resourcing.

Professional Development

• Supports career development program that is customized to the department and individual attorneys.
• Manages all aspects of associate and counsel evaluation processes to ensure constructive feedback is provided and actionable plans are implemented.
• Ensures feedback is being received and understood.
• Provides “in the moment coaching” to attorneys.
• Holds attorneys accountable to department-specific competencies.
• Identifies gaps in associate/counsel knowledge and experience, consults with the COE to recommend targeted training and resources.
• Supports the staffing process to align attorney experiences with practice group needs.
• Facilitates integration of new attorneys into the department and fosters a sense of community.

Staffing and Planning

• Supports Associate Development Partners (ADPs), staffing partners, and practice leaders in planning and resource allocation.
• Briefs practice leaders regularly on utilization, upcoming events, employee relations, and refined processes.
• Strategically recommend resources to support partners and ensure optimal staffing.
• Acts as a vehicle for communication between associates/counsel and leadership.

Administrative Coordination

• Facilitates administrative coordination of the performance management process.
• Oversees communications within the practice area.
• Forecasts financial and budget requirements for the department, prepares related reports, and monitors the budget.
• Regular and reliable physical presence to work as part of a team and meet with internal clients.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of labor laws and regulations to ensure compliance and mitigate legal risks
• Strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively
• Demonstrated ability to foster collaboration and build relationships across teams.
• Experience in budget management and resource allocation
• Commitment to promoting inclusion and a sense of community within the practice group
• Current knowledge of industry best practices, trends and techniques
• Expertise in leading organizational change and driving cultural transformation
• Ability to manage resistance and build buy-in for change initiatives
• Proficiency in HR analytics and reporting to inform strategy and measure success
• Advanced knowledge of relevant software programs and HR systems
• Ability to interpret data and provide actionable insights
• Strong interpersonal skills to build trust and credibility with stakeholders
• Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, organizational, and planning skills
• Ability to handle sensitive matters and maintain confidentiality
• Ability to facilitate difficult conversations and resolve conflicts effectively
• Ability to use discretion and exercise independent and sound judgment
• Flexibility to adjust hours and work the hours necessary to meet operating and business needs

Education and Experience

• Experience in strategic operations, career development, marketing/BD or human resources within a professional services environment.
• Minimum of 6 years of related experience.

Culture & Life at Skadden
What makes Skadden special is our people and the culture, community and spirit of collaboration we have created. We believe in teamwork and inspiring each other to be our best in an atmosphere that promotes professionalism and excellence in all that we do. We know that inclusion and drawing on the strength of a wide spectrum of talent only make us better and is vital to the firm's success. Our goal is for everyone at the firm to enjoy a challenging career with opportunities for development and growth and to support the well-being of our attorneys and business services professionals.

Benefits

The overall well-being of our team is important to us.  We offer generous benefits to help you achieve wellness in all areas of your life. 

Competitive salaries and year-end discretionary bonuses. Comprehensive health care (medical, dental, vision), savings plan/401(k) and voluntary benefits. Generous paid time off. Paid leave options, including parental. In-classroom, remote, and on-demand learning and professional development opportunities. Robust well-being classes and programs. Opportunities to give back and make an impact in local communities.

For further details, please visit:  https://www.skadden.com/careers/staff/employee-benefits

The starting base salary for this position is expected to be within the range listed under Salary Details.  Actual salary will be determined based on skills, experience (to the extent relevant) and other-job related factors, consistent with applicable law. This position may be eligible for a discretionary year-end bonus.

Salary Details

EEO Statement

Skadden is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  It does not discriminate against applicants or employees based on any legally impermissible factor including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual and reproductive health decisions, disability, any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, or stalking.

Applicants who require an accommodation during the application process should contact Alex Taylor at (212) 735-2176.

Skadden Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

Skadden Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

Applicants Have Rights Under Federal Employment Law

Applicants Have Rights Under Federal Employment Law

In accordance with the Transparency in Coverage Rule,

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Transparency in Coverage

Applicants Have Rights Under California Law

Applicants Have Rights Under California Law

Skadden will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.