The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley (MSV) is seeking a strategic, hands-on Human Resources Director who will serve as the organization’s sole HR leader. This role is ideal for a senior HR professional who enjoys both strategy and execution, values flexibility, and thrives in a mission-driven, people-centered environment.
As a member of the senior leadership team, the HR Director will partner directly with the Executive Director & CEO to shape culture, strengthen organizational effectiveness, and ensure that HR practices support MSV’s mission, values, and long-term goals. This role offers the opportunity to build, refine, and lead all aspects of HR in a growing organization - from day-to-day operations to long-term strategy.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead all HR functions as a department of one, balancing strategic direction with hands-on execution.
- Oversee recruitment and talent acquisition, onboarding, compensation and benefits, compliance, performance management, and employee relations.
- Work cross-functionally with leadership to foster an inclusive, engaged, and high-performing workplace.
- Partner closely with the Finance team on budgeting, audits, payroll administration, and related HR/finance processes.
- Serve as a trusted advisor to leadership by providing guidance, insight, and recommendations on organizational culture and workforce development.
- Promote belonging, wellbeing, and positive employee experiences throughout the museum.
- Participate actively in leadership team meetings and help shape organizational decisions through open, collaborative communication.
- Stay current with HR best practices and maintain a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in HR, business, or related field required.
- SHRM certification or a Master’s degree is preferred.
Experience
- Minimum 7+ years of progressively responsible HR experience, including at least 2 years in a leadership or HR-lead capacity.
- Experience working as a department of one or in a small, mission-driven organization is highly valued.
- Background in museums, cultural institutions, arts organizations, or higher education is a plus.
Skills & Expertise
- Strategic HR leadership with the ability to create and implement HR programs aligned with organizational goals.
- Strong knowledge of federal and state employment laws and compliance requirements.
- Proven success managing full-cycle talent acquisition across all levels.
- Strength in employee relations, conflict resolution, equity, and cultural stewardship.
- Experience implementing or managing performance management and talent development systems.
- Proficiency in compensation, benefits administration, and payroll processes.
- Strong financial and analytical skills; experience supporting budget and audit processes.
- Excellent communication, relationship-building, and collaboration skills.
- Technical proficiency with HRIS systems (experience with Paychex a plus) and strong Microsoft Office skills.
- High professional ethics, discretion, and a commitment to confidentiality.