Head of HR Tech and AI Transformation

Overview

In this role you drive the future of HR at Freshfields by shaping a technology-led, AI-enabled HR function. You will partner with senior HR and business leaders to define a long-term strategy, modernize HR systems, and embed data-driven decision-making. You’ll lead a global team to deliver transformative programs that enhance efficiency and employee experience, while fostering an innovation-first culture. This is a pivotal opportunity to influence HR service delivery at a world-class professional services firm.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a multi-year HR tech, automation and AI strategy aligned to people and business priorities
• Lead HR systems, processes and ways of working across the employee lifecycle
• Identify opportunities to redesign and automate HR workflows for better efficiency and user experience
• Champion AI and emerging tech adoption across HR with measurable business impact
• Oversee the HR data strategy, improving data quality, access and insight
• Build and lead a global HR Technology & Reporting team fostering innovation and collaboration
• Drive change management, stakeholder engagement and adoption of transformational programs
• Collaborate with HR, IT, Innovation, Finance, Data Privacy and other functions to deliver integrated solutions
• Lead external vendor/partner engagement for market evaluation, solution selection and implementation oversight
• Establish and grow an AI and Innovation network across HR for experimentation and knowledge sharing

Key requirements

• Significant experience leading HR technology transformation in a complex, global organization
• Proven track record designing and implementing HR tech strategies, roadmaps and operating models
• Deep knowledge of AI and automation applications in HR and business functions
• Experience redesigning end-to-end HR processes for efficiency and service quality improvements
• Strong understanding of HR systems architecture, integrations, data management and digital ecosystems
• Proven ability to lead and develop global teams through substantial change
• Exceptional stakeholder management and executive-level influencing skills
• Commercial awareness and experience with technology vendors and strategic partners
• Passion for innovation and continuous improvement in HR service delivery
• Experience in professional services or similarly matrixed global environments is advantageous

• Influence at executive level
• Change leadership
• Collaborative and cross-functional mindset
• AI and automation technologies in HR
• HR systems architecture and integrations
• HR data management and analytics

…