Director - Human Resources

GENERAL POSITION SUMMARY:

This executive-level position is responsible for the strategic oversight and operational management of the City’s Human Resources Department. The role ensures consistent implementation of personnel policies and procedures and oversees all human resources functions, including recruitment, employee relations, benefits administration, compensation, and training. The position serves as a key advisor to the Mayor and the Personnel Board, providing leadership in workforce planning, policy development, and organizational effectiveness.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

·         Provide strategic leadership and direction for all operations within the Human Resources Department.

·         Supervise and evaluate HR staff; assign duties, address concerns, offer guidance, and administer disciplinary actions when necessary.

·         Leads the analysis and resolution of employee relations issues, including grievances, workplace conditions, disciplinary actions, and classification disputes; formulates recommendations and   negotiates outcomes; interprets personnel policies for employees, public officials, and the general public.

·         Advises and supports the Mayor and Board on personnel-related matters; provides expert guidance to department directors, supervisors, and employees on human resources policies and   procedures.

·         Oversees recruitment, hiring, promotion, and reassignment processes in alignment with established procedures and best practices.

·         Directs all aspects of personnel and benefits administration, including recruitment, staff retention, workers' compensation, compensation and classification systems, and drug screening programs.

·         Manages employee benefits programs; evaluates and recommends changes; reviews contracts and proposals from vendors, third-party administrators, and service providers.

·         Collaborates with legal counsel to interpret new policies, procedures, and regulations; recommends the adoption or revision of programs accordingly.

·         Attends meetings, seminars, and professional development activities to stay informed about trends, changes, and best practices in HR and city governance; provides guidance based on this   knowledge.

·         Leads the development and maintenance of wage and salary surveys, job analyses, job descriptions, and the City's classification and pay plans.

·         Compiles, tracks, and analyzes administrative and statistical data related to departmental operations; conducts research, performs calculations, and prepares reports as required.

·         Consults with department heads, division managers, professional staff, and external consultants to assess administrative needs and align HR programs with organizational goals.

·         Designs and implements training and development strategies to improve employee performance; addresses performance deficiencies; coordinates and documents corrective actions in accordance   with City policy.

·         Provides leadership in developing and refining internal and external HR policies through cross-departmental collaboration.

·         Identifies and resolves operational challenges proactively; anticipates and mitigates potential crises.

·         Models and promotes the City’s core values by cultivating a work environment that fosters high morale, respect, and productivity.

·         Continuously seeks improvements to HR operations, aiming to enhance efficiency, reduce processing times, and deliver quality customer service.

·         Provides strategic consultation and recommendations to the Mayor; assists in the development and management of the City’s personnel budget.

·         Performs other related duties as assigned to support departmental and organizational success.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Knowledge of:

·         Federal, state, and local laws, regulations, codes, and policies related to human resources and municipal government operations.

·         Principles and practices of public administration and the functions of local government.

·         Administrative structures and interdepartmental relationships within municipal government.

·         Budget development, financial management, and resource allocation.

·         Organizational development and management principles, including program planning, implementation, and evaluation, as well as staff supervision and project management.

Skills and Ability to:

·         Analyze complex problems, evaluate alternatives, anticipate outcomes, and implement effective solutions aligned with organizational goals.

·         Understand the structure and functions of City departments and collaborate effectively with external agencies.

·         Manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced, interruption-prone environment.

·         Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with individuals at all levels of the organization and the public.

·         Exercise sound judgment, discretion, and initiative within established policies, procedures, and legal frameworks.

·         Build and maintain positive, cooperative, and productive working relationships across all levels of the organization.

·         Work independently and make decisions with minimal supervision, while adhering to City and departmental policies.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

·         Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or related field from an accredited college.

·         Equivalent combination of education and experience that would provide the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.

·         Eight (8) years of increasingly responsible administration experience including five (5) years of supervisory or management experience.

PREFERRED:

·         Master’s degree in Business Administration or Public Policy or related field from an accredited college.

·         Ten (10) years of increasingly responsible municipal administration experience including six (6) years of supervisory or management experience.

LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS & OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

·         Must possess a valid Driver’s License and acceptable MVR.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The work is generally performed within an office environment. Requires the ability to sit, stand, walk, see, and effectively communicate with others for extended periods of time. Must be able to handle multiple tasks or projects simultaneously, work with numerous interruptions, and adjust to changing priorities.  Must demonstrate good use of judgment and demonstrate the ability to properly deal with confidential matters.  Must use good interpersonal skills.