Director of Legal Talent (Calgary)

McLeod Law LLP is seeking an experienced Director, Legal Talent to lead and oversee the full lifecycle of lawyer talent management across the firm. This role is responsible for recruitment, onboarding, development, performance management, advancement, and retention of our legal professionals, working closely with firm leadership, practice group leaders (PGLs), and the HR team.

The successful candidate will bring a strong understanding of law firm environments, legal career progression, and professional development best practices, combined with sound judgment, discretion, and a collaborative leadership style.

Responsibilities

Performance Management & Career Development

• Develop, implement, and administer career development programs for associates and assist in goal setting and follow up for accountability
• Working with PGLs, conduct needs analyses, provide guidance on learning design and competency frameworks, create curriculums for learning and development initiatives, and develop training programs
• Develop, implement, and administer the firm’s mentorship program for associates and students
• Work with the COO and PGLs as appropriate to help ensure that associates are on track for success and are meeting or exceeding billable targets
• Manage lawyer performance review processes, including timelines, tools, and reporting
• Support partners and PGLs in delivering effective feedback

Retention, Engagement & Culture

• Partner with leadership to support lawyer engagement, retention, and succession planning
• Monitor trends, feedback, and metrics related to lawyer satisfaction and turnover
• Assist as needed with associates’ meetings

Policy, Compliance & Best Practices

• Ensure lawyer talent processes align with firm policies, Law Society requirements, and employment standards
• Maintain accurate and confidential records related to lawyer employment and progression
• Contribute to the development and refinement of legal talent policies and programs

Legal Recruitment & Hiring

• Working with PGLs, support the recruitment and hiring of lawyers at all levels, including associates, counsel, and lateral partners, and assist with the preparation of business cases
• Coordinate interview processes, candidate evaluations, and offer approvals
• Support strategic workforce planning with firm leadership
• Oversee the articling and summer student recruitment processes
• Support the student hire back process, including gathering feedback from relevant professionals, carrying out needs assessment, and making hire back recommendations

Onboarding & Integration

• Oversee onboarding and integration of current lawyers to ensure a smooth transition into the firm
• Work closely with HR to coordinate orientation, practice group integration, and early‑stage performance check‑ins
• Act as a primary point of contact for new legal hires during their initial months

Collaboration & Leadership Support

• Prepare reports, recommendations, and materials for leadership review
• Develop and maintain awareness of the legal marketplace
• Serve as a trusted advisor on legal talent matters
• Other duties as required

Qualifications

• Minimum 3-5 years of experience in legal talent management, HR leadership, or professional development within a law firm or professional services environment
• Law degree is an asset
• Strong understanding of law firm structures, associate development models, and partnership pathways
• Demonstrated industry knowledge and a track record of providing proactive and responsive solutions to business needs
• Demonstrated experience managing complex, confidential matters with discretion
• Excellent relationship‑building, communication, and stakeholder management skills
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and lead firm‑wide initiatives

Office Location

This role is based out of either one of our two office locations with an expectation of being in both offices on a regular basis.

McLeod Law is an equal opportunity employer that fosters an inclusive, equitable, and accessible environment. Please notify us if you require accommodation at any time during the recruitment process.