Director of Employee Experience (Head of HR)

Our client, a long-standing and well-respected organization with deep roots in the community, is embarking on an exciting new chapter — one that places people and culture at the center of its success. Backed by a dynamic and forward-thinking CEO, the newly created Director of Employee Experience role represents a powerful opportunity to modernize the HR function, elevate the employee experience, and influence a thriving organizational culture.

Historically, HR has been compliance- and administration-focused. The incoming leader will build on that strong foundation of consistency and loyalty, ensuring efficiency and compliance while expanding the function’s reach into engagement, growth, and development. This is a highly visible role with the support of a CEO who believes in planning, partnership, and progress — and who will serve as this leader’s strongest ally in driving meaningful change.

The Director of Employee Experience will lead all aspects of HR and payroll while shaping a forward-looking people strategy that balances structure with innovation. The organization boasts a deeply committed and long-tenured workforce eager for development, career pathing, and engagement opportunities. The right leader will bring empathy, credibility, and the ability to inspire buy-in through clear vision and authentic connection.

What You Will Do:

• Lead the HR and payroll functions with a focus on compliance, efficiency, and service excellence.
• Partner with executive and line leadership to define and communicate a compelling people vision that aligns with company goals.
• Evaluate and enhance existing HR programs, policies, and processes to improve the employee experience.
• Champion initiatives that foster engagement, professional growth, and inclusion.
• Mentor and develop the HR and Payroll teams, building a high-performing, service-oriented group.
• Provide strategic counsel on culture, organizational design, and leadership development.
• Leverage data and insights to drive continuous improvement across HR programs and practices.
• Oversee payroll operations to ensure accuracy, compliance, and trust in pay practices.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to the CEO, CFO, and senior leaders on matters impacting people and culture.

The Ideal Candidate:

• A builder who thrives on taking a strong foundation and helping it evolve.
• A change leader who understands the human side of transformation — able to articulate a vision and earn trust.
• A strategic yet hands-on HR leader with 10 years of progressive HR experience, including leadership of payroll.
• Experience with an hourly workforce required; experience with a unionized workforce highly desirable.
• Brings emotional intelligence, sound judgment, and influence to complex interpersonal and organizational situations.
• Skilled in engagement, culture shaping, career development, and operational excellence.
• Demonstrates partnership and collaboration with leaders at all levels.
• Deep knowledge of employment law, HR best practices, and California compliance requirements.

Why This Role Matters:

This is not just a leadership role — it’s a chance to redefine what HR means for an established, successful company ready for its next evolution. You’ll have the rare combination of executive sponsorship, organizational stability, and the freedom to design what comes next.

If you’re energized by the idea of building something lasting — blending strategy with humanity — and you have the courage and EQ to guide others through change, this is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact.