What are the responsibilities and job description for the HR Director position at New Pioneer Food Co-op?
Job Title: HR Director
Department: Human Resources
Location: Cedar Rapids, IA; Iowa City, IA; Coralville, IA
Position Summary
New Pioneer Co-op is a democratically owned organization dedicated to collaborative, community-driven success. We are seeking an experienced HR Director to lead our human resources function, ensuring our policies, practices, and programs reflect our cooperative values. The ideal candidate will be a strategic, people-focused leader who can manage all aspects of HR—from recruitment and onboarding to employee relations, benefits administration, and compliance—while fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic HR Leadership:
Develop and implement HR strategies that align with the co-op’s mission and democratic values.
Advise leadership and the Board of Directors on workforce planning, organizational structure, and change management initiatives.
Policy & Compliance:
Create, update, and enforce HR policies and procedures in compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws, as well as cooperative governance guidelines.
Maintain accurate HR records and generate regular reports for leadership and the Board.
Talent Management:
Oversee recruitment, hiring, and onboarding processes to attract and retain a diverse and talented workforce.
Implement performance management systems and employee development programs to promote continuous growth.
Employee Relations & Engagement:
Manage employee relations, including conflict resolution and performance issues, to maintain a positive, inclusive work culture.
Develop and execute engagement initiatives that reinforce the co-op’s collaborative environment.
Benefits Administration:
Administer a comprehensive benefits program, ensuring competitive offerings in health, retirement, and wellness initiatives.
Work with external partners to manage benefits cost-effectively while meeting employees' needs.
Training & Development:
Identify and implement training programs to enhance skills, support career development, and improve organizational effectiveness.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field; Master’s degree or HR certification (e.g., SHRM-SCP, SPHR) preferred.
Minimum of 10 years of progressive HR experience, including at least 3 years in a leadership role.
Experience in a cooperative, or similarly collaborative environment is highly desirable.
In-depth knowledge of federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations.
Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and conflict resolution skills.
Proven ability to drive organizational change and foster an inclusive, collaborative culture.
Proficiency in Paylocity for data analytics for decision-making.
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and retirement plans.
Opportunities for professional development and growth within a collaborative, community-focused organization.
