hr director (ngo).

Strategic Leadership & Organizational Development

• Develop and execute comprehensive HR strategies that align with the organization’s mission, values, and long-term strategic goals.

• Partner with executive leadership to shape and reinforce a people-first organizational culture.

• Act as a thought leader in organizational design, change management, and workforce planning.

Talent Acquisition & Workforce Planning

• Oversee full-cycle recruitment and onboarding processes, ensuring equitable and inclusive hiring practices.

• Collaborate with department heads to anticipate talent needs and build a diverse pipeline of mission-aligned candidates.

• Implement systems and tools to streamline hiring and improve candidate experience.

Employee Relations & Engagement

• Serve as a trusted advisor to staff and managers, providing guidance on employee relations, conflict resolution, and performance management.

• Conduct internal investigations as needed, ensuring fair and timely resolution in line with organizational policies.

• Design and lead employee engagement initiatives, including surveys, recognition programs, and team-building activities.

Performance Management & Staff Development

• Oversee the development and implementation of performance appraisal systems that promote growth, accountability, and equity.

• Identify skill gaps and coordinate professional development programs to support individual and team growth.

• Coach managers and staff in effective feedback, goal setting, and career development.

Compensation, Benefits & Compliance

• Manage compensation and benefits programs to ensure competitiveness, equity, and alignment with budgetary constraints.

• Stay informed of changes to employment laws and ensure ongoing compliance with federal, state, and local labor regulations.

• Oversee payroll, benefits administration, and employee record-keeping, maintaining confidentiality and accuracy.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB)

• Lead initiatives that promote a culture of equity, inclusion, and belonging across all levels of the organization.

• Facilitate training and workshops to raise awareness and improve practices related to DEIB.

• Monitor and report on diversity metrics, using data to drive continuous improvement.

HR Operations & Systems

• Optimize HR systems, tools, and policies to ensure efficiency, transparency, and scalability.

• Implement and maintain an HRIS (Human Resource Information System), ensuring data integrity and usability.

• Develop and update employee handbooks, policies, and procedures in consultation with legal counsel.

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Manage and mentor HR staff (if applicable), fostering their growth and development.

• Serve as a collaborative member of the leadership team, contributing to cross-functional initiatives and strategic planning.

• Represent the HR function in board meetings or other governance contexts when required.

skills and experience required

• Minimum of 15 years of progressive HR experience, including at least 5 years in a leadership role

• Prior experience in the nonprofit sector strongly preferred

• Proven track record in strategic HR planning, talent management, and employee engagement

• Strong understanding of labor laws, HR compliance, and DEI practices

• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills