Human Resources Generalist

Human Resources Generalist – London At SOM, we are a collective committed to shaping a better future for our clients, communities and planet. We aspire to create the most sustainable, impactful work through creative, interdisciplinary teams with all the resources and diversity of a global firm. We value those who are passionate about excellence, innovation, integrity, inclusivity, and collaboration. Together we can achieve great things. We are seeking an experienced Human Resources professional to join our London Human Resources Team. Reporting to the Director of Human Resources for London & MENA, this role provides an important link between HR and the London practice by providing consistent, focused people support. The role works directly with Supervisors in providing trusted advice and hands‑on support to drive performance, engagement, and compliance. In addition, you will work with our global team of Generalists on our annual firmwide HR initiatives and other HR projects to help improve the employee experience. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced, commercially focused and high performing HR professional who has a background in a fast paced, multi‑site service organization (ideally architecture/engineering/professional services). Success at SOM Means Ideas: We believe in a meritocracy of ideas. We look to everyone to actively contribute to the discourse in the firm. Knowledge: We believe that expertise is the result of lifelong learning. We are not expected to know everything, but rather to passionately pursue answers, develop new skills and deepen our knowledge. Product: We strive for excellence in the concept, quality, and delivery of our work. Individual: We value individuals who bring the highest standards of professionalism and personal integrity in the way they work. Each person can develop and contribute their wealth of attributes, skills and knowledge to support the overall health of the firm. Team: We value the power of interdisciplinary integration. A positive team culture in which everyone collaborates openly towards common goals is essential. Firm: We have a history of making transformative contributions to the profession and our communities. We are constantly innovating and attempting to bring new approaches, solutions and processes to our work. Position Responsibilities Supports all SOM staff in their employment activities including hiring process, benefits eligibility and separation from SOM. Supports general Central HR initiatives and manages oversight of Human Resource Management Systems such as Workday and other HR software solutions. Assists new hires with training on self service options in Workday. Produces and evaluates analytics, handles queries and other business processes associated with Workday and associated programs. Completes documentation and follows all the procedures that accompany a new hire, transfer, status change, studio change, address change, employee referral, etc. Uses thorough knowledge of current Human Resources programs and policies to assist employees with any questions or concerns they have regarding but not limited to: Health/dental and Vision insurance Medical/dependent care reimbursement Short‑term disability Parental & Leave policies Pension contributions Administers payroll entries in liaison with payroll team. Acts as the point of contact for candidates with the firm; coordinates offers that are generated from the firm and maintains and updates workflow as needed. Coordinates the placement of employment advertisements in accordance with SOM standards and practices. Coordinates the Staff Performance Appraisal Process (i.e. probation period/annual staff process). Serves as staff point of contact regarding clarification of policy and procedures. Monitors the bi‑weekly sick/vacation balance, reports to project coordinator and assists staff with enquiries. Assists employees with Licensing and/or Professional Membership questions and reimbursement/payments. Counsels employees and managers to seek resolutions to work‑related issues. Takes ownership to resolve these issues and respond to any staff concerns in a timely manner. Ensures consistency with regard to counseling and corrective action. Works with the firmwide Generalist group and Director of Human Resources to develop and implement new HR initiatives to enhance the employee’s total SOM experience. Maintains "open door" atmosphere by ensuring visibility and availability of Human Resources function to all staff members. Assists in the coordination of the local Human Resources Department to ensure outstanding customer service is maintained at all times. Assists with other HR duties as and when required. Leadership Responsibilities Inspires and leads others by example. In collaboration with team members, contributes to a clear and consistent work plan to achieve the project budget, deliverables, and schedule. Actively engages in internal professional development opportunities. Contributes to the implementation of sustainable strategies in all project assignments and the associated development of staff knowledge. Contributes to the development of standards, policies, and procedures. Protects SOM from financial and legal risk. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree preferred. Minimum Associate level CIPD. Minimum 4 years of Human Resources experience, ideally within architecture/engineering or professional services firm. High attention to detail. Strong organizational and interpersonal skills. Excellent communication skills, written as well as oral. Strong conflict management skills and problem‑solving skills. Ability to be proactive and work with minimal supervision. Ability to exercise good judgment and maintain strict confidentiality. Ability to read and interpret necessary policies and procedures as well as other programs and documents. Demonstrated proficiency with applications such as Google Suite, Word, Excel & PowerPoint. Experience with Workday or similar software solutions. Benefits Competitive salaries. Health insurance, wellness, retirement and financial and other work/life plans. Equal Opportunity Employer Statement At SOM, we welcome and encourage diversity in the workplace. We believe an inclusive environment benefits our employees, our firm, and our community, while also enriching and challenging our own thinking about design. We are proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Learn more about SOM's employment policy. #J-18808-Ljbffr