We are seeking a dynamic and high-performing Chief Talent Officer (CTO) to lead the Firm’s human resources (HR), attorney and staff recruiting, professional development, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs and succession planning. The CTO blends talent strategy, HR expertise and people leadership, ensuring the Firm attracts, develops and retains exceptional talent while fostering a culture of engagement, accountability and excellence. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer and serving on the Executive Committee, this leader will shape the future of the Firm’s talent strategy, partnering with leadership to drive innovation, retention and organizational success. This hybrid position is based in Los Angeles, with in-office presence at least two days per week.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership and Culture | Serve as a trusted advisor to Firm leadership on all talent-related matters, aligning recruiting, professional development, HR and DEI initiatives with strategic goals. Drive initiatives that enhance attorney and staff engagement, collaboration and culture across all offices
• Recruiting and Development | Shape and lead the Firm’s recruiting strategy at all levels. Oversee onboarding, mentoring, CLE and career development programs that strengthen retention and long-term growth
• HR and Employee Relations | Oversee all HR operations, including performance management, employee relations and compliance, while ensuring human resources programs support the Firm’s recruiting and development priorities
• Compensation, Benefits and Retention | Partner with the Chief Operating Officer and others to design competitive compensation and benefits programs. Lead retention, wellness and engagement initiatives tailored to a high-performing legal workforce
• Compliance | Oversee and ensure the Firm’s compliance with all applicable federal, state and local employment regulations. Write and implement new policies and procedures as needed and maintain the Firm’s Personnel Manual
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion | Champion the Firm’s DEI strategy, partnering with the DEI Committee to build measurable initiatives that integrate diversity and inclusion into recruiting, professional development and Firm culture

Experience & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or certifications (e.g., JD, SHRM-SCP) strongly preferred
• 10+ years of progressive leadership in HR and attorney/staff recruiting and professional development in a law firm or other professional services environment
• Proven success leading hiring and development programs at a strategic and operational level
• Expertise across HR disciplines, including but not limited to, employee relations, benefits, compensation, compliance, succession planning and staff professional development
• Strong understanding of legal industry talent trends, attorney career trajectories, law school recruiting cycles and best practices in lateral attorney hiring
• Demonstrated experience leading and managing teams and fostering a positive and productive work environment
• Excellent relationship-building skills with attorneys, Firm leadership and external stakeholders
• Expertise in federal and California state employment and wage and hour laws; knowledge/experience with DC, TX, AZ, CO and/or WA is a plus
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, including coaching/providing guidance and writing/updating Firm policies
• Ability to work effectively with all levels of the Firm and maintain confidentiality
• Must reside in Southern California with the ability to travel to other Firm offices as needed.