What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Human Resources position at Carol Woods Retirement Community?
Job Title: Human Resources Director
Department: Human Resources
Reports To: Vice President of Risk & Compliance
FLSA Status: Exempt
Position Summary
The Human Resources Director provides strategic and operational leadership for all human resources functions within Carol Woods. This role partners closely with executive leadership to support a diverse workforce, ensure compliance with employment laws, foster a positive workplace culture, and align HR practices with the organization’s mission of serving residents with excellence, compassion, and respect.
The HR Director oversees recruitment and retention, employee relations, compensation and benefits, compliance, performance management, training and development, and HR systems, while serving as a trusted advisor to leaders and staff.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Serve as a key member of the leadership team, providing guidance on workforce planning, organizational development, and change management
- Develop and implement HR strategies that support the community’s mission, vision, values, and long-term goals
- Analyze workforce metrics and trends to inform decision-making and improve retention and engagement
Employee Relations & Culture
- Foster a positive, inclusive, and respectful workplace culture aligned with person-centered care values
- Serve as a confidential resource for employees and leaders regarding workplace concerns, performance issues, and conflict resolution
- Oversee investigations and ensure fair, consistent, and legally compliant employment practices
Recruitment & Retention
- Lead recruitment strategies for the organization in a competitive labor market
- Oversee onboarding processes to ensure new employees and students are well-prepared and engaged
- Develop retention initiatives to reduce turnover and support employee satisfaction
Compensation, Benefits & HR Operations
- Oversee compensation programs, benefits administration, and leave management
- Ensure accurate HR records, reporting, and HRIS administration
- Partner with finance and leadership on budgeting related to staffing, benefits, and compensation
Compliance & Risk Management
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, including those specific to healthcare and senior living environments
- Oversee policies, handbooks, and procedures, updating as needed
- Support audits, surveys, and regulatory reviews related to HR practices
Training & Development
- Identify training needs and oversee leadership development, supervisory training, and compliance education
- Support performance management processes, including goal-setting, evaluations, and coaching
Team Leadership
- Lead, mentor, and develop the Human Resources team
- Set priorities, delegate responsibilities, and ensure high levels of service and accountability
Qualifications
Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field required
HR certification (PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP/SCP) required
Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive HR leadership experience
Experience in senior living, healthcare preferred
Knowledge & Skills
- Strong knowledge of employment law and HR best practices
- Proven ability to build trust and credibility with employees at all levels
- Excellent communication, coaching, and conflict-resolution skills
- Experience with HRIS and payroll systems
- Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on execution
Working Conditions
Primarily office-based with regular interaction throughout the retirement community
Why This Role Matters
The Human Resources Director plays a critical role in supporting the staff who care for and serve our residents every day. This position ensures that team members are supported, valued, and equipped to deliver exceptional service while maintaining compliance and operational excellence. This role serves as a key resource and advocate for employees, helping ensure fairness, consistency, and a positive employee experience.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field required
HR certification (PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP/SCP) required
Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive HR leadership experience
Experience in senior living, healthcare preferred
Knowledge & Skills
- Strong knowledge of employment law and HR best practices
- Proven ability to build trust and credibility with employees at all levels
- Excellent communication, coaching, and conflict-resolution skills
- Experience with HRIS and payroll systems
- Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on execution