Director of People Operations

Description The Director of People Operations leads the development, implementation, and execution of People Operations programs and policies in support of the firm’s strategic goals. This role manages core HR functions, including employee engagement, performance management, compliance, onboarding and orientation, and team development. The Director of People Operations serves as a trusted advisor and partners with firm leadership, practice group leaders, and department leaders to drive initiatives that enhance organizational effectiveness and foster a high-performance, inclusive culture.

This position reports to the Chief People Officer and can be located in the firm’s Irvine or Los Angeles Offices. This is an exciting opportunity to join the firm during its building stage, creating an innovative, entrepreneurial, and dynamic AmLaw full-service firm! Key Responsibilities Strategic & Operational HR Planning and Oversight Lead initiatives that support long-term talent development, operational efficiency, and firm objectives.

Collaborate with firm leadership to assess workforce needs, succession planning, and organizational structure. Assess performance development and retention strategies. Policy Development & Compliance Oversight Draft, implement, and enforce policies across all offices that reflect the firm’s values and comply with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations. Monitor legal and regulatory changes and proactively update policies and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Support internal audits and ensure documentation is complete and compliant. Maintain and update compliance documentation related to ERISA wrap, Section 125 POP, Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP), Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVPP), and similar regulatory policies. Coordinate and oversee the reasonable accommodation and interactive process, ensuring timely, compliant, and empathetic engagement with employees in alignment with ADA and FEHA requirements.

Manage and maintain firm registrations with state agencies, including business, labor, and compliance filings, to ensure adherence to jurisdictional requirements and deadlines. Manage the firm’s business insurance coverages, including professional liability, malpractice, cyber, etc. to ensure that policies remain active and meet the firm’s needs. Benefits Administration Provide strategic oversight of the organization’s benefits programs and total rewards strategy.

Assist with benefits budget planning, forecasting, and cost management. Collaborate with the People Operations Manager in the design, evaluation, and administration of benefits offerings. Ensure benefits programs remain competitive, cost-effective, and aligned with business objectives. Support leadership with benefits strategy and program improvements. Payroll Partner with finance, leadership, and the People Operations Manager to support payroll reporting, budgeting, audits, and related follow-up.

Support payroll operations, managed by the People Operations Manager, by helping coordinate timelines, inputs, and issue resolution. Assist in reviewing payroll processes for accuracy, compliance, and alignment with firm policies. Provide support for payroll compliance efforts by maintaining documentation and helping monitor federal, state, and local requirements. Employee Engagement & Culture Design and implement programs that enhance employee satisfaction, retention, and firm culture.

Lead firmwide initiatives such as engagement surveys, recognition programs, and wellness campaigns. Collaborate with department leaders and the workplace experience team to implement events and initiatives across offices. Assist with the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs to foster a culture of belonging. Partner with department heads to address team dynamics and morale.

Performance Management & Development Oversee the performance review process, ensuring consi