Totum is partnering with an International Law firm as they launch a new office in Madrid. We are recruiting for an HR Manager to serve as point of contact for all HR-related matters.
The role has a dual reporting line to the Office Managing Partner,Madrid and the Global Head of HR Operations & Projects.
Part of a HR and Talent & Development teams that comprises of 50+ people globally and is responsible for the effective management of all matters concerning the employment and development of people within the firm.
The HR Manager will:
* Serve as the first point of contact for all HR matters in the Madrid office
* Own and manage end‑to‑end HR processes, ensuring accuracy and timely escalation of issues
* Build strong, trusted relationships with key stakeholders, including the OMP and Office Manager
* Drive local people priorities and support wider firm strategy, including presenting at meetings and coaching/challenging leaders
* Lead annual HR cycles: performance reviews, talent mapping, and salary review
* Partner with the OMP on talent management, engagement, under performance, workforce planning, and succession
* Partner with global talent acquisition on recruitment, attraction, and headcount planning
* Coordinate interviews, prepare offer documentation, and support resourcing processes
* Lead on-boarding and off-boarding to ensure a seamless employee experience
* Manage pre‑employment screening and background checks
* Coordinate induction programmes for all levels, including partners
* Handle joiner administration and act as first point of contact for new hires
* Manage contractual changes, flexible working requests, and fixed‑term contract extensions
* Oversee family‑friendly leave processes (maternity, paternity, etc.) in line with legislation
* Manage immigration matters, intra‑company transfers, and client secondments
* Liaise with the external payroll provider, ensuring accurate monthly payroll data
* Maintain accurate HR and payroll system updates
* Support global reward and benefits teams with local benefits administration
* Maintain accurate HRIS records across headcount, absence, holiday, diversity, and other data
* Produce regular and ad‑hoc HR reports for local and global stakeholders
* Ensure HR policies, procedures, and templates comply with Spanish law and firm standards
* Align global HR processes (budgeting, performance review, salary review) with local requirements
* Maintain and update local HR templates, guides, and best‑practice materials
* Monitor HR market trends and benchmarking;
propose improvements tobenefits, salaries, and HR practices
Attributes / Skills Required:
* Significant HR generalist experience, ideally within a professional services environment, with the ability to manage HR operations independently and efficiently
* Strong knowledge of Spanish labour law and HR best practice, with confidence advising on local employment matters
* Exceptional organisational skills, with the ability to plan, prioritise, and manage high volumes of work while meeting deadlines
* High accuracy and attention to detail, with proven ability to handle sensitive information confidentially
* Proficiency in HR information systems;
Workday experience preferred, plus advanced Excel skills for data analysis and reporting
* Excellent communication skills in English and Spanish, both written and verbal, with the ability to build strong relationships at all levels
* Commercial mindset, enabling a practical, business‑focused approach to HR decision‑making
* Relevant HR qualification (or equivalent) desirable
This job description is indicative only and does not represent an exhaustive list of responsibilities.
The firm reserves the right to alter or change the responsibilities at any time, in line with the firm’s strategy and business.