Associate Director, Employee Relations

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

Skadden is seeking an Associate Director, Employee Relations. This position will be responsible for fostering a positive, high-performing workplace culture by designing, implementing, and managing employee relations and performance management processes that align employee contributions with organizational goals. It will serve as a strategic advisor to leadership and people strategy business partners, addressing complex employee concerns, conducting sensitive investigations, and ensuring compliance with employment laws and organizational policies. This position plays a critical role in promoting fairness, accountability, and continuous improvement across the organization. This position also requires a high level of discretion, professionalism, and the ability to build trust and credibility across all levels of the organization. This position will be based in our New York 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.

• Serves as the primary point of contact for resolving employee relations issues, including grievances, interpersonal conflicts, workplace concerns, and policy violations.
• Provides expert guidance and coaching to business partners and senior leaders on workplace policies, disciplinary actions, conflict resolution, and best practices for maintaining a respectful and inclusive work environment.
• Acts as a trusted advisor to leadership and People Strategy Business Partners on sensitive employee relations matters, offering risk assessments, strategic recommendations, and support for complex decision-making.
• Conducts thorough and impartial investigations into allegations of misconduct, harassment, discrimination, retaliation, or other workplace issues:
  • Gathers and analyzes evidence, interviews relevant parties, and documents findings in a clear, objective, and timely manner.
  • Collaborates with the Office of General Counsel and leadership to ensure investigations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and organizational standards.
• Ensures adherence to organizational policies, procedures, and all relevant employment laws in the resolution of employee relations matters.
• Stays current on federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, proactively advising leadership on compliance, risk mitigation, and emerging trends. Partners with legal counsel to address complex legal issues and minimize organizational risk.
• Maintains accurate, confidential, and thorough documentation of employee relations cases, investigations, and outcomes.
• Reviews and analyzes reports and analytics to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement in employee relations.
• Provides data-driven insights on workforce trends, turnover, and root causes of employee relations issues, recommending proactive solutions to enhance the workplace environment and employee engagement.
• In partnership with People Operations, designs, develops, and manages the organization's performance management framework, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, values, and strategic priorities.
• Creates and maintains tools, templates, and processes to support effective performance evaluations, goal setting, feedback delivery, and ongoing performance conversations in collaboration with business partners and Centers of Excellence.
• Implements and monitors Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs) for employees requiring additional support, ensuring compliance with organizational policies and legal requirements.
• Provides coaching to business partners and managers to build capability in delivering constructive feedback, setting clear expectations, and driving high performance.
• Monitors the effectiveness of performance management processes, soliciting feedback from stakeholders and recommending enhancements based on data, feedback, and industry best practices.
• Analyzes performance data to identify trends, gaps, and opportunities for organizational and individual development, supporting a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.
• Participates in the interviewing, selection and training process for the employee relations team.
• Monitors attendance and expense reports to ensure accuracy and compliance with firm policies.
• Oversees employees' work, provides guidance in the resolution of problems, and evaluates performance.
• Develops and communicates departmental guidelines and procedures.

Qualifications:

• Deep understanding of performance management frameworks, tools, and best practices
• Ability to design and implement processes that drive accountability and continuous improvement
• Strong knowledge of employee relations practices, conflict resolution techniques, and investigation protocols
• Familiarity with employment laws and regulations to ensure compliance and mitigate legal risks
• Ability to analyze complex situations, identify root causes, and recommend effective solutions
• Proficiency in using HR analytics and metrics to inform decision-making
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to convey sensitive information clearly and effectively
• Strong interpersonal skills to build trust and credibility with employees and leadership
• Ability to handle sensitive matters with professionalism and maintain strict confidentiality
• Sound judgment and decision-making skills in high-pressure situations
• Advanced knowledge of performance management platforms and case management tools
• Willingness to adjust hours and travel as needed to meet business demands
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and organizational needs
• Ability to work regularly and consistently in the office

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's Degree
• Minimum of twelve years of related Human Resources 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.

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 Lara Bell at (212) 735-2794.

Skadden Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

Skadden Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

Applicants Have Rights Under Federal Employment Law

Applicants Have Rights Under Federal Employment Law

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