Program Director, Human Resources: Talent Management and Development

The Program Director is part of the senior Human Capital leadership team and oversees Talent Acquisition, Testing, Assessment and HR Police Support, Talent Strategies and Solutions, and the Office of Second Chance Employment. The Program Director will play a pivotal role in driving talent-related initiatives, ensuring alignment with Human Capital’s vision, organizational goals, and fostering an inclusive and productive workforce. This individual will work closely with leadership, human resources, and other key stakeholders to create and execute effective talent strategies that enhance organizational performance and support our commitment to second-chance employment initiatives.

Reporting directly to the Assistant Director of Business Strategies and Workforce Transformation, the Program Director will perform the following key responsibilities:

Talent Acquisition

• Directly lead the General Manager of Talent Acquisition to attract top-tier candidates across various functions and levels within the organization.
• Oversee the recruitment process, from job postings and sourcing candidates to interviewing and selecting talent, ensuring a diverse candidate pool and a seamless experience for applicants.
• Collaborate with department heads and hiring managers to understand workforce needs, define job requirements, and design tailored recruitment strategies.
• Build and maintain relationships with external talent sources, including Recruitment Process Outsourcing vendors, Call-in-Lists, universities, and professional organizations.
• Monitor and assess recruitment metrics to make data-driven adjustments, improving the process and outcomes.

Testing and Assessment, HR Police Support

• Directly oversee the General Manager of Testing and Assessment and HR Police Support in the development and implementation of assessment tools for skilled trade roles and Police Officer recruitment.
• Provide guidance on best practices for talent evaluation, ensuring fair and unbiased assessments that align with the organization’s needs.
• Partner with Management Budget Department and Chief Security Office to align on police recruitment goals including class size and orientation schedule.
• Monitor and assess Testing and Assessment metrics to make data-driven adjustments, improving the process and outcomes.

Talent Strategies and Solutions:

• Directly oversee Talent Strategies and Engagement Manager in the development and implementation of innovative talent strategies that align with organizational goals and industry best practice.
• Provide strategic guidance for the development of programs that support the professional development and career growth of employees at all levels, including represented employees.
• Collaborate with leadership to assess workforce trends and proactively address skill gaps, ensuring a competitive talent pipeline.
• Monitor and assess Talent Strategies metrics to make data-driven adjustments, improving the process and outcomes.

Office of Second Chance Employment (OSCE):

• Lead and oversee the Program Manager, OSCE in developing programs that create opportunities for justice impacted individuals.
• Collaborate with GOCOR in to support marketing and outreach efforts, and champion OSCE within the agency.
• Recommend policies to ensure a supportive, inclusive work environment for employees in the second-chance program.
• Track and report on the success of second-chance employment initiatives, continually refining the approach based on outcomes and feedback.

• Monitor and assess OSCE metrics to make data-driven adjustments, improving the process and outcomes.

Candidates must present the following qualifications to be considered eligible for this position:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resource Management, Public or Business Administration, or a related field from an accredited college or university.
• 7 to 10 years of progressively more responsible experience within the human resources or related field.

Ideal candidate will present the following profile:

• Seasoned HR professional with a record of success in advancing organizational priorities, including demonstrated experience working and engaging with senior level executives in a corporate / public sector environment.
• Significant experience identifying and developing strategies for strengthening assessment services and programs in alignment with agency workforce and business needs.
• Ability to provide technical expertise and consultation to executive leadership and business leaders with regards to assessment and leading industry practices.
• Significant experience in progressive HR leadership roles within a complex business environment (ideally across a range of functions and businesses).
• Demonstrated strategic leadership to set the direction, engage and develop a high performing team.
• Professional expertise and knowledge to develop HR strategies, which will have high impact and drive business success and to resolve complex and challenging HR issues.
• Proven track record of translating HR strategies into actionable programs or plans which deliver results and improve business performance.
• Strong project management experience, including the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a focus on details and results.
• Demonstrated experience assessing organizational needs, designing and implementing human capital solutions.
• Experience that blends strategy with operations and proven skill in translating vision and strategy into actionable goals, priorities and challenges.
• Familiarity with stakeholder communications to enhance awareness, understanding, buy-in and support.
• Highly effective leader and team player with strong communication skills and problem-solving abilities who thrives on cross-functional initiatives and challenges.

The application process varies by position, but typically includes an initial phone interview for qualified candidates, followed by a more in-depth interview(s) and/or assessment(s). Selected candidates who are made a conditional job offer will be asked to undergo a background check.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey offers a competitive benefits package, hybrid work options for many positions, and a professional environment that supports development and recognizes achievement.

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