Leave of Absence Specialist

Position Overview:
The Leave of Absence Specialist administers and coordinates leave of absence programs (including FMLA, ADA, family leave, disability leave, parental leave, military leave, and other statutory or firm-sponsored leaves) for all attorneys and staff. This role serves as a key resource on leave-related questions, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, and supports employees throughout the leave process with responsiveness and confidentiality.

Key Responsibilities:

• Administer the firm's leave of absence programs, and any relevant federal/state/local leave laws.
• Act as subject matter expert for all leave policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements; stay up to date with changing laws.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for employees seeking information or assistance regarding leave options and processes.
• Review, process, and track leave of absence requests; collect and verify supporting documentation as necessary.
• Coordinate with HR Business Partners, payroll, legal, and management to ensure seamless communication regarding employee status and return-to-work dates.
• Partner with third party leave administrator to manage leave and claim process.
• Partner with team and outside vendors to ensure accurate and timely administration of benefits during leaves.
• Collaborate with HR Business Partners and Employee Relations to manage ADA accommodation requests, facilitating the interactive process as needed.
• Maintain confidential records and detailed documentation per regulatory and firm requirements.
• Generate regular reports and metrics for management concerning leave activity, trends, and compliance.
• Support training and communication initiatives on leave policies and processes.
• Respond to audits and information requests from internal or external parties.
• Serve as support to benefits administration.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• This is a hybrid role requiring in office presence three days a week in Freshfields Raleigh office.
• 3+ years of experience administering leave of absence programs, preferably in a law firm, professional services, or corporate environment.
• In-depth knowledge of FMLA, ADA, and other relevant US employment laws; multi-state experience is highly preferred.
• Strong analytical and organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including client service orientation and discretion with sensitive matters.
• Proficiency in HRIS and leave administration systems; advanced skills with Excel and reporting tools.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, deadlines, and confidential information with professionalism.
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred; certification (e.g., PHR, SHRM-CP) a plus.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in a partnership/professional service structure.
• Experience with Workday, ADP, or similar HR platforms.

EEO Statement
Freshfields US LLP is proud to be an equal employment and affirmative action employer. Our policies and practices will be free from unlawful discrimination based upon race, color, ethnicity, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions), national origin, citizenship, immigration status, ancestry, age, marital status, protected veteran status, military service, disability, medical condition, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any basis prohibited under federal, state or local law. We strive to promote an atmosphere that encourages equal opportunities and prohibits discriminatory practices, including sexual harassment.

Disability Accommodation for Applicants to Freshfields US LLP
Freshfields US LLP is an Equal Employment Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer and provides reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in job application procedures. If you have any difficulty using our online system and you need an accommodation due to a disability, you may use the alternative email address below to contact us about your interest in employment at [email protected] , or you can send your resume to [email protected] , or you can call us at +1-212-277-4000.