Human Resources Director

Under administrative direction of the Town Manager (or their designee), provides strategic leadership in planning, developing, implementing, and administering comprehensive human resources programs and policies for the Town. This senior-level position is responsible for providing professional leadership and direction in human resources management while ensuring the Town's compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and policies.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership & Administration

• Develops and implements comprehensive strategic HR plans aligned with the Town's mission, vision, and objectives.

• Serves as a key advisor to the Assistant Town Manager and Town Manager and Board of Commissioners on HR matters.

• Directs the development, implementation, and administration of Town-wide human resources policies, procedures, and programs.

• Evaluates the effectiveness of HR programs and recommends improvements to enhance organizational performance.

• Prepares and administers departmental budget; monitors and controls expenditures.

• Directs and supervises professional, technical, and administrative staff within the department.

• Represents the Town in various professional organizations and at conferences related to human resources management.

Human Resources Management

• Provides leadership in talent acquisition, workforce planning, and succession management.

• Oversees employee relations programs designed to maintain a positive work environment.

• Develops and administers compensation and classification systems to ensure internal equity and external competitiveness.

• Directs the administration of employee benefits programs including health insurance, retirement, and other benefit offerings.

• Designs and implements performance management systems that effectively evaluate employee contributions.

• Ensures compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations.

• Develops and implements employee training and development programs.

• Administers labor relations activities including grievance procedures and disciplinary actions.

• Oversees risk management functions related to workers' compensation, safety programs, and OSHA compliance.

• Manages the Town's diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

• Provides guidance to department heads on complex personnel matters.

Additional Responsibilities

• Represents the Town at professional meetings, conferences, and other public events.

• Conducts research and prepares comprehensive reports on various administrative matters.

• Serves on special committees and task forces as assigned.

• Participates in Management Team meetings and strategic planning sessions.

• Maintains awareness of current trends, best practices, and innovations in human resources management.

• Performs related duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

• Bachelors Degree in Human Resources Management, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a closely related field, Master’s degree preferred.

• Seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in human resources management, including at least four (4) years in a supervisory or management capacity, preferably in a municipal or government setting.

• Current professional HR certification (PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PSHRA-CP, PSHRA-CP, IPMA-CP, or IPMA-SCP) or the ability to obtain one of these within one (1) year of hire date.

Special Requirements:

• Valid North Carolina driver's license.

• Must obtain one of the following professional HR certifications within one (1) year of hire date, if not already certified with one of the following: PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PSHRA-CP, PSHRA-CP, IPMA-CP, or IPMA-SCP.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in local government administration.

• Knowledge of North Carolina General Statutes relating to public employment.

• Experience with labor relations and collective bargaining.

• Experience implementing and managing HRIS and other HR technology systems.

• Experience developing and implementing strategic workforce planning initiatives.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of human resources administration.

• Federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and court decisions pertaining to human resources.

• Modern principles of organizational development and management.

• Strategic planning methodologies and implementation techniques.

• Principles of budget development and fiscal management.

• Current trends in employee relations, compensation, benefits, and training.

• Change management principles and practices.

• Risk management and workplace safety requirements.

Skill in:

• Strategic planning and policy development.

• Leadership and management of professional staff.

• Interpreting complex laws, regulations, and policies.

• Problem analysis and resolution at both strategic and operational levels.

• Written and oral communication with diverse audiences.

• Advanced computer applications relevant to human resources management.

• Conflict resolution and negotiation.

• Data analysis and metrics-based decision making.

Ability to:

• Develop and implement comprehensive human resources strategies and programs.

• Build effective working relationships with board members, elected officials, employees, and the public.

• Analyze complex administrative and personnel problems and recommend solutions.

• Present technical information clearly and concisely in written and oral formats.

• Exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.

• Interpret and apply employment laws, regulations, and policies.

• Adapt to changing priorities and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

• Provide leadership in creating a positive and productive organizational culture.

• Think innovatively and implement creative solutions to complex problems.