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 to benefits, 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.