HR Business Partner - Manager Level

About the Role

W Executive supports an international law firm in hiring an HR Business Partner at the manager level, stationed in Frankfurt. This position offers an exciting opportunity to take on an authentic Business Partner role with prominent interaction with senior leaders and direct involvement in the transformation of the German People & Culture department.

The role is based within the Continental Europe People & Culture team, collaborating closely with the Senior P&C Manager for Germany and supporting operations in both Frankfurt and Munich. The German People & Culture division is transitioning from traditional local frameworks to a unified global model — this significant change affects processes, culture, and mindsets. The successful candidate will be key in facilitating this transition, working directly with Partners, managers, and business leaders to deliver HR expertise throughout the employee journey.

Key Responsibilities

• Support and deputize for the Senior P&C Manager in Germany.
• Collaborate with Partners and managers on performance management, career development, and workforce planning.
• Provide primary advice on German labor laws including contracts, work hours, leave policies, dismissals, and co-determination.
• Handle employee relations matters such as grievances, disciplinary proceedings, and investigations.
• Assist with the execution of annual performance reviews, promotions, talent assessments, compensation, and bonus programs.
• Implement global People & Culture policies and tools, adapting them appropriately to fit German legal and cultural requirements.
• Champion change initiatives supporting adoption of new working methods within the local team.
• Support administrative HR tasks, HRIS maintenance, payroll coordination, and people analytics.
• Engage in People & Culture projects across Continental Europe.
• Frequent travel to Munich as needed by business demands.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Between 3 and 7 years' experience as an HR Business Partner or senior HR generalist.
• In-depth practical knowledge of German employment legislation (Arbeitsrecht).
• Preferably experience working in international law firms, Big Four consulting, or professional services environments.
• Proven background supporting organizational change, transformation, or post-merger integration.
• Ability to confidently advise and constructively challenge senior stakeholders.
• Excellent stakeholder management and the capacity to influence without formal authority.
• Experience navigating complex international, matrixed organizations.
• Strong project management skills and familiarity with HRIS and digital HR tools.
• Fluency in both German and English.
• A relevant Master’s degree or German equivalent qualification.

Personal Attributes

• Resilience in maintaining composure and positivity amid ambiguity or resistance.
• Flexibility to adapt to shifting environments and priorities.
• Proactive ownership of tasks, anticipating challenges without direct instruction.
• Diplomatic and influential communication fostering trust and collaboration without authority.
• Hands-on and practical approach to solving business and HR challenges.
• A true Business Partner mindset comfortable with senior-level engagement and advisory roles.

Additional Information

• Office location: Frankfurt, Germany
• Regular travel to Munich required
• Permanent, full-time contract
• Competitive salary range: €80,000 to €85,000 per year
• Work environment: International with a highly matrixed organization
• Languages required: German and English

This opportunity goes beyond conventional HRBP duties by offering close collaboration with a senior HR leader, high-level exposure to decision-makers, and a direct influence on shaping the People & Culture strategy in Germany. Ideal for professionals aiming to learn, impact, and grow their HR careers significantly.