What are the responsibilities and job description for the Human Resources Director position at Upper Valley Haven?
Director of Human Resources
Upper Valley Haven | White River Junction, VT
Reports to:
Executive Director
Location:
On-site (office-based)
Website:
About Upper Valley Haven
Upper Valley Haven is a community-centered nonprofit dedicated to helping people move out of homelessness and hunger and toward self-sufficiency. Through shelter, food access, education, and supportive services, the Haven partners with individuals and families to build stability and opportunity. Our work is grounded in dignity, equity, and respect—and our staff are central to advancing that mission.
Position Summary
Upper Valley Haven is seeking an experienced, values-driven
Director of Human Resources
to serve as a strategic partner and trusted resource to leadership and staff. This role blends high-level strategy with hands-on execution, ensuring that HR policies, systems, and practices support a healthy, equitable, and engaged workplace.
The Director of HR plays a critical role in organizational effectiveness—championing compliance, inclusion, accountability, and professional growth while supporting staff through change and growth. This is an ideal opportunity for an HR leader who thrives in mission-driven environments and values close collaboration across an organization.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee the full employee lifecycle, including recruitment, onboarding, training, performance management, and employee relations
- Ensure compliance with federal and state employment laws, benefits administration, and risk management best practices
- Develop, maintain, and regularly update the employee handbook to reflect legal requirements, organizational policies, and best practices
- Partner with the Executive Director to design and maintain compensation structures and benefits programs within budgetary constraints
- Serve as a coach and advisor to staff and leadership on personnel matters, conflict resolution, and organizational development
- Maintain accurate HR records and oversee BambooHR and related HR systems
- Supervise the HR Coordinator and support their professional development
- Oversee internship coordination, including recruitment, onboarding, training, and ongoing communication
- Collaborate with senior leadership and the Board of Directors to support organizational growth and strategic initiatives
- Use HR data and metrics to inform workforce planning, engagement, and decision-making
Required Skills & Attributes
- Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills
- Demonstrated ability to build trust and rapport across all levels of an organization
- Commitment to Upper Valley Haven's mission, values, and equity-centered approach
- Ability to manage sensitive situations with discretion, empathy, and professionalism
- Experience leading or supporting organizational change
- Comfort using data and analytics to guide strategy and present insights to leadership and boards
Education & Experience
- Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree or equivalent experience in Human Resources, Organizational Development, or a related field preferred
- Minimum of 6 years of HR experience, including at least 2 years in a leadership role
- HR certification (SHRM-SCP, SHRM-CP, SPHR, or PHR) preferred
- Experience with an HRIS such as BambooHR or similar systems
- Nonprofit experience strongly preferred
- Demonstrated knowledge of employment law, compliance, and ethical HR practices
- Experience navigating organizational growth, restructuring, or cultural change
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint
Work Environment
Because of the value placed on in-person collaboration and relationship-building, this position is
office-based
.
Why Join Upper Valley Haven?
This is a unique opportunity to shape the people practices of a respected nonprofit making a tangible difference in its community. The Director of HR will have a meaningful voice in organizational strategy, a supportive leadership partnership, and the chance to build systems that empower staff to do their best work.
To Apply:
The Upper Valley Haven has partnered with Dan Lyons from The Richards Group to guide this important search. To apply, send your resume and cover letter to , or reach out to Dan directly at with any questions. Applications, including a resume and cover letter, will be accepted until we have a strong candidate slate.
The Upper Valley Haven is an equal opportunity employer. They celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.