HR Practitioner

Summit Search Group; Winnipeg; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A respected Manitoba law firm is seeking an HR Practitioner to oversee day-to-day HR functions. This role emphasizes direct employee engagement, managing recruitment, performance reviews, and fostering a positive workplace culture. Ideal candidates will have 3–5 years of HR experience in professional services and will be approachable and empathetic. The position offers a supportive work environment and competitive compensation.

Benefits

Flexible work policies

Generous breaks

Competitive benefits package

Qualifications

• Experience in professional services is an asset.
• Hands-on and approachable attitude needed.
• Sound understanding of Manitoba employment legislation.

Responsibilities

• Act as the first point of contact for employee concerns.
• Manage full-cycle recruitment including job postings.
• Coordinate and facilitate performance reviews.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Empathy

Discretion

Education

Minimum 3–5 years HR experience

Job description

About PKF Lawyers
PKF Lawyers is a respected Manitoba law firm with offices across the province. We pride ourselves on being progressive, supportive, and people-focused. With over 50+ dedicated staff and a diverse team of lawyers, we balance professionalism with a strong culture of collaboration, community, and care.

We are seeking a hands-on, approachable, and empathetic Human Resources (HR) Practitioner to oversee all day-to-day HR functions across our firm. This is a key role that ensures our people and culture continue to thrive as the firm grows.

The Opportunity

As the HR Practitioner, you will take ownership of the firm’s human resources function, serving as the main point of contact for staff and management on all HR matters. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys being in the trenches, engages directly with employees, and finds practical solutions — not just creating processes from behind a desk.

You will be responsible for employee relations, recruitment, onboarding, performance reviews, and ongoing support for our professional and support staff. This is not a “big corporate HR” role — rather, we need someone who is approachable, empathetic, and committed to fostering positive working relationships across all levels of the firm.

Key Responsibilities

• Employee Relations & Support
  • Act as the first point of contact for employee concerns, grievances, and day-to-day HR issues.
  • Serve as a bridge between leadership and staff, ensuring clear communication and fair resolution of workplace matters.
  • Build strong relationships with staff, fostering trust and approachability.
• Recruitment & Onboarding
  • Manage full-cycle recruitment, including job postings, screening, interviewing, and selection.
  • Partner with lawyers and leadership to understand staffing needs and align hiring decisions.
  • Oversee smooth onboarding and orientation of new employees.
• Performance Management & Reviews
  • Coordinate and facilitate performance reviews in collaboration with management.
  • Support leaders in setting performance expectations, coaching staff, and addressing concerns.
  • Track staff development, promotions, and training opportunities.
• HR Administration & Compliance
  • Ensure consistent application of firm policies and procedures.
  • Administer employee files, documentation, and HR records, all in full confidence.
  • Work with payroll and benefits administrators (already in place) to ensure accuracy and compliance.
  • Monitor vacation requests, scheduling, and leave management to maintain adequate staffing coverage.
• Culture, Engagement & Retention
  • Champion staff engagement initiatives such as firm events, wellness activities, recognition programs, and social gatherings.
  • Promote a positive and inclusive workplace culture that aligns with PKF’s values.
  • Collaborate with leadership on initiatives to attract and retain top legal administrative talent.

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum 3–5 years of progressive HR experience; experience in professional services (legal, financial, or consulting) is an asset.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust and credibility at all levels of the organization.
• Hands-on and approachable — willing to “roll up your sleeves” and work directly with staff.
• Sound understanding of Manitoba employment legislation and HR best practices.
• Proven ability to manage sensitive employee matters in confidence with discretion and empathy.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.

Why Join PKF Lawyers?

• People-first culture: We value our employees and support them with flexibility, recognition, and care.
• Work-life balance: A predictable workday (8:30–4:30), generous breaks, and supportive policies.
• Engagement & fun: From firm-wide celebrations and recognition initiatives, we create an enjoyable and collegial environment.
• Progressive approach: We go above and beyond, offering support in times of need, staff wellness initiatives, support with charitable initiatives and a culture of mutual respect.
• Opportunity for impact: As HR Practitioner, you’ll shape the employee experience across the firm and directly contribute to our culture and success.

Compensation

Salary will be commensurate with experience. A competitive benefits package is also provided.

How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to apply with a resume and cover letter outlining their interest in and qualifications for the role. For more information, or to submit your resume, please reach out to Matt Erhard at Summit Search Group, [e-mail]

Summit Search Group has a strong commitment to Diversity, Equality and Inclusion. We strive for continuous development, modeling, inclusive behaviors and proactively managing bias throughout our process.