What are the responsibilities and job description for the City of Charleston, SC - Director of Human Resources and Organizational Development position at Raftelis?
The City of Charleston, South Carolina, is seeking a strategic change agent who can elevate the Human Resources and Organizational Development (HROD) Department to new levels of excellence in employee recruitment, retention, engagement, and organizational development. This position offers an exciting opportunity to lead in a city known for its historic charm, innovative spirit, and vibrant community. As a member of the Citys leadership team, the next Director of Human Resources and Organizational Development (Director) will be instrumental in creating forward-thinking human resources policies, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and ensuring compliance with employment laws and best practices.
The Director leads a team of dedicated professionals responsible for a broad range of human resources functions, including employee recruitment and retention, training, benefits administration, performance management, and employee relations. The Director oversees critical programs such as the classification and compensation system, grievance procedures, and compliance initiatives, while also monitoring employee turnover, staffing levels, and organizational effectiveness. This role is integral to developing and maintaining systems that meet the Citys current and future workforce needs.
Working closely with the Citys executive leadership team, the Director ensures alignment of departmental goals with organizational priorities, collaborates with department managers to address personnel matters, and develops innovative solutions to enhance the employee experience. Additionally, the Director provides guidance on complex HR issues, consulting legal counsel as necessary, to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws.
Reporting directly to the Chief of Staff, the Director is a trusted advisor and champion of workforce excellence, balancing long-term strategy with day-to-day operational needs. This position requires a leader with strong interpersonal skills, a commitment to continuous improvement, and a passion for public service.
Priorities
The ideal candidate will be a proactive change leader who can inspire others, foster accountability across the Citys departments, and build the organizational capital needed to advocate for resources and innovative ideas. They will be politically savvy and able to navigate the complexities of local government while driving equity, fairness, and consistency throughout the organization.
The next Director of Human Resources for Charleston will be a highly competent HR leader who fosters collaboration, continuous learning and improvement, and is focused on customer service and building a healthy workforce culture. This individual will prioritize listening, learning, and building trust with the Mayor, City leadership, HR staff, and employees citywide. They will center their decision-making on integrity, fairness, data, and best practices.
The successful candidate will align HRs workplan and resources to the organizations strategic needs in order to provide services to all parts and levels of the organization. They will have the emotional intelligence and open-mindedness to approach workforce issues with empathy, equity, and a commitment to inclusivity.
An expert in human resources best practices, the Director will bring a modern mindset, understanding the evolving nature of work and workforce dynamics. They will look for innovative, creative solutions to improve processes and employee engagement, ensuring Charleston is a place where people are proud to work. Proficiency with Workday and other HR systems will be vital, as will the ability to interpret complex data and apply it strategically to drive improvements in HR operations.
The Director will demonstrate the ability to develop short- and long-term goals and implement those to build a strong foundation in HR services. They will be a generalist who has experience in all aspects of HR, including employee relations, recruitment, retention, classification and compensation, benefits, and compliance. They will possess a deep understanding of public sector HR laws and regulations and bring expertise in mediation, organizational development, and employee wellness.
Qualifications
Minimum requirements include any combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelors degree in human resources management, industrial or organizational psychology, business or public administration, sociology, or a closely related field, 10 years of progressively responsible HR experience, including five years of supervision/management.
Preferred qualifications include a masters degree, at least five years of public sector HR experience and SPHR or PHR or similar certifications are also preferred. In addition, demonstrated experience in change management, improving recruitment, retention and other key HR processes, providing exceptional service to departments, delivering training and development, and a commitment to serving a diverse workforce.
Inside the Human Resources Department
The City of Charlestons Human Resources and Organizational Development Department is committed to delivering quality services and support across a wide range of human resources functions to empower City employees to better serve the community. Guided by its mission to exceed expectations in employment, training, employee relations, benefits, compensation, and wellness, the Department plays a pivotal role in shaping the workplace culture and operational effectiveness of the City.
Department Overview
The HROD Department encompasses key areas such as Compensation, Recruitment, Benefits, Employee Training and Development, Employee Relations, Employee Wellness, Community Wellness, and citywide mail functions. The Director serves as the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Officer for the City, reinforcing the commitment to a workplace free of discrimination and harassment.
Core Responsibilities
The Department ensures that the Citys position classification plan, personnel policies, and procedures including fringe benefits, employment conditions, salaries, and grievance processes remain current and equitable. HROD provides advisory and operational guidance across all City departments, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and fostering an inclusive, respectful work environment.
Organizational Structure
The Director leads the Department, supported by a skilled team that includes the Deputy Director, Wellness Program Manager, Office Manager, Employee Relations Manager, and a Training Specialist. Together, this team works collaboratively to enhance employee engagement, ensure fair and consistent policies, and support the professional growth and well-being of all City employees.
Through its dedication to excellence and innovation, Charlestons HROD Department serves as a cornerstone of the Citys commitment to its workforce and the community.
The Community
Nestled on the South Carolina coast, Charleston is a city steeped in history, culture, and charm. Known as the "Holy City" for its historic churches and skyline dotted with steeples, Charleston is a vibrant coastal hub with a thriving community and a rich heritage. Located midway between Savannah, Georgia, and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Charleston offers easy access to major metropolitan areas while retaining its own unique character. The Citys coastal location provides stunning waterfront views, a mild climate, and numerous beaches, including the picturesque shores of Folly Beach and Isle of Palms.
Home to approximately 150,000 residents, Charleston is part of a larger metropolitan area with over 800,000 people. The City prides itself on its welcoming, diverse community that blends long-standing traditions with a modern, inclusive outlook. Charleston boasts top-rated public and private schools, as well as prestigious institutions like the College of Charleston and The Citadel. The Citys historic neighborhoods, including the French Quarter and South of Broad, are complemented by newer developments in areas like Daniel Island and West Ashley, offering options for every lifestyle.
A cultural hub of the South, Charleston is celebrated for its vibrant arts scene. From the world-renowned Spoleto Festival USA to local galleries and theaters, the City offers endless opportunities to explore music, visual arts, and performing arts. Its culinary reputation is equally impressive, with award-winning chefs and an emphasis on Lowcountry cuisine. Charleston provides ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, with beautiful parks like Hampton Park, Waterfront Park, and the expansive West Ashley Greenway. Residents enjoy kayaking, boating, fishing, and cycling, as well as access to the stunning landscapes of nearby state parks and national wildlife refuges.
Founded in 1670, Charleston is one of Americas oldest cities, with cobblestone streets, historic homes, and iconic landmarks like Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Preservation efforts have kept Charlestons historic charm intact, making it a living museum of American history. Charlestons economy is driven by a mix of industries, including tourism, aerospace, automotive manufacturing, technology, and healthcare. Major employers like Boeing, MUSC Health, and the Charleston International Airport contribute to a robust local economy, making it an attractive destination for businesses and professionals alike.
Charleston is frequently recognized as one of the best cities in the U.S., earning accolades for its quality of life, friendliness, and overall charm. With its rich blend of history, culture, and modern amenities, Charleston offers an unparalleled living experience for residents and visitors alike. Whether youre drawn by the Citys storied past, its vibrant present, or its promising future, Charleston is a community where tradition and innovation come together to create something truly extraordinary.
Quick Facts
Compensation and Benefits
The expected hiring range is $160,000 to $172,000, depending on qualifications, with an excellent benefits package.
How to Apply
Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis. Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. The position will be open until filled with a first review of applications beginning March 3, 2025.
Questions
Please direct questions to Catherine Tuck Parrish at ctuckparrish@raftelis.com and Kelsey Batt at kbatt@raftelis.com.
DOWNLOAD RECRUITMENT BROCHURE
The Director leads a team of dedicated professionals responsible for a broad range of human resources functions, including employee recruitment and retention, training, benefits administration, performance management, and employee relations. The Director oversees critical programs such as the classification and compensation system, grievance procedures, and compliance initiatives, while also monitoring employee turnover, staffing levels, and organizational effectiveness. This role is integral to developing and maintaining systems that meet the Citys current and future workforce needs.
Working closely with the Citys executive leadership team, the Director ensures alignment of departmental goals with organizational priorities, collaborates with department managers to address personnel matters, and develops innovative solutions to enhance the employee experience. Additionally, the Director provides guidance on complex HR issues, consulting legal counsel as necessary, to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws.
Reporting directly to the Chief of Staff, the Director is a trusted advisor and champion of workforce excellence, balancing long-term strategy with day-to-day operational needs. This position requires a leader with strong interpersonal skills, a commitment to continuous improvement, and a passion for public service.
Priorities
- Spend time with City Leadership, HR staff, Section Chiefs, Police and Fire Chiefs, and employees across departments to understand operations, establish trust, and identify ways to improve HR services and the employee experience
- Shape the Citys workforce by improving employee recruitment and retention and other HR processes to best support needs of departments to serve the community
- Focus on empowering supervisors and employees through comprehensive training and leadership development initiatives
The ideal candidate will be a proactive change leader who can inspire others, foster accountability across the Citys departments, and build the organizational capital needed to advocate for resources and innovative ideas. They will be politically savvy and able to navigate the complexities of local government while driving equity, fairness, and consistency throughout the organization.
The next Director of Human Resources for Charleston will be a highly competent HR leader who fosters collaboration, continuous learning and improvement, and is focused on customer service and building a healthy workforce culture. This individual will prioritize listening, learning, and building trust with the Mayor, City leadership, HR staff, and employees citywide. They will center their decision-making on integrity, fairness, data, and best practices.
The successful candidate will align HRs workplan and resources to the organizations strategic needs in order to provide services to all parts and levels of the organization. They will have the emotional intelligence and open-mindedness to approach workforce issues with empathy, equity, and a commitment to inclusivity.
An expert in human resources best practices, the Director will bring a modern mindset, understanding the evolving nature of work and workforce dynamics. They will look for innovative, creative solutions to improve processes and employee engagement, ensuring Charleston is a place where people are proud to work. Proficiency with Workday and other HR systems will be vital, as will the ability to interpret complex data and apply it strategically to drive improvements in HR operations.
The Director will demonstrate the ability to develop short- and long-term goals and implement those to build a strong foundation in HR services. They will be a generalist who has experience in all aspects of HR, including employee relations, recruitment, retention, classification and compensation, benefits, and compliance. They will possess a deep understanding of public sector HR laws and regulations and bring expertise in mediation, organizational development, and employee wellness.
Qualifications
Minimum requirements include any combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelors degree in human resources management, industrial or organizational psychology, business or public administration, sociology, or a closely related field, 10 years of progressively responsible HR experience, including five years of supervision/management.
Preferred qualifications include a masters degree, at least five years of public sector HR experience and SPHR or PHR or similar certifications are also preferred. In addition, demonstrated experience in change management, improving recruitment, retention and other key HR processes, providing exceptional service to departments, delivering training and development, and a commitment to serving a diverse workforce.
Inside the Human Resources Department
The City of Charlestons Human Resources and Organizational Development Department is committed to delivering quality services and support across a wide range of human resources functions to empower City employees to better serve the community. Guided by its mission to exceed expectations in employment, training, employee relations, benefits, compensation, and wellness, the Department plays a pivotal role in shaping the workplace culture and operational effectiveness of the City.
Department Overview
The HROD Department encompasses key areas such as Compensation, Recruitment, Benefits, Employee Training and Development, Employee Relations, Employee Wellness, Community Wellness, and citywide mail functions. The Director serves as the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Officer for the City, reinforcing the commitment to a workplace free of discrimination and harassment.
Core Responsibilities
The Department ensures that the Citys position classification plan, personnel policies, and procedures including fringe benefits, employment conditions, salaries, and grievance processes remain current and equitable. HROD provides advisory and operational guidance across all City departments, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and fostering an inclusive, respectful work environment.
Organizational Structure
The Director leads the Department, supported by a skilled team that includes the Deputy Director, Wellness Program Manager, Office Manager, Employee Relations Manager, and a Training Specialist. Together, this team works collaboratively to enhance employee engagement, ensure fair and consistent policies, and support the professional growth and well-being of all City employees.
Through its dedication to excellence and innovation, Charlestons HROD Department serves as a cornerstone of the Citys commitment to its workforce and the community.
The Community
Nestled on the South Carolina coast, Charleston is a city steeped in history, culture, and charm. Known as the "Holy City" for its historic churches and skyline dotted with steeples, Charleston is a vibrant coastal hub with a thriving community and a rich heritage. Located midway between Savannah, Georgia, and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Charleston offers easy access to major metropolitan areas while retaining its own unique character. The Citys coastal location provides stunning waterfront views, a mild climate, and numerous beaches, including the picturesque shores of Folly Beach and Isle of Palms.
Home to approximately 150,000 residents, Charleston is part of a larger metropolitan area with over 800,000 people. The City prides itself on its welcoming, diverse community that blends long-standing traditions with a modern, inclusive outlook. Charleston boasts top-rated public and private schools, as well as prestigious institutions like the College of Charleston and The Citadel. The Citys historic neighborhoods, including the French Quarter and South of Broad, are complemented by newer developments in areas like Daniel Island and West Ashley, offering options for every lifestyle.
A cultural hub of the South, Charleston is celebrated for its vibrant arts scene. From the world-renowned Spoleto Festival USA to local galleries and theaters, the City offers endless opportunities to explore music, visual arts, and performing arts. Its culinary reputation is equally impressive, with award-winning chefs and an emphasis on Lowcountry cuisine. Charleston provides ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, with beautiful parks like Hampton Park, Waterfront Park, and the expansive West Ashley Greenway. Residents enjoy kayaking, boating, fishing, and cycling, as well as access to the stunning landscapes of nearby state parks and national wildlife refuges.
Founded in 1670, Charleston is one of Americas oldest cities, with cobblestone streets, historic homes, and iconic landmarks like Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Preservation efforts have kept Charlestons historic charm intact, making it a living museum of American history. Charlestons economy is driven by a mix of industries, including tourism, aerospace, automotive manufacturing, technology, and healthcare. Major employers like Boeing, MUSC Health, and the Charleston International Airport contribute to a robust local economy, making it an attractive destination for businesses and professionals alike.
Charleston is frequently recognized as one of the best cities in the U.S., earning accolades for its quality of life, friendliness, and overall charm. With its rich blend of history, culture, and modern amenities, Charleston offers an unparalleled living experience for residents and visitors alike. Whether youre drawn by the Citys storied past, its vibrant present, or its promising future, Charleston is a community where tradition and innovation come together to create something truly extraordinary.
Quick Facts
- Population: 150,000
- Median Household Income: $83,891
- Median Home Value: $469,100
- Median Age: 33.2
Compensation and Benefits
The expected hiring range is $160,000 to $172,000, depending on qualifications, with an excellent benefits package.
How to Apply
Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis. Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. The position will be open until filled with a first review of applications beginning March 3, 2025.
Questions
Please direct questions to Catherine Tuck Parrish at ctuckparrish@raftelis.com and Kelsey Batt at kbatt@raftelis.com.
DOWNLOAD RECRUITMENT BROCHURE
Salary : $160,000 - $172,000
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