The Director of Human Resources is a highly visible strategic leader who shapes and drives the organization’s people strategy in direct partnership with senior leadership. This role sits at the center of organizational design, talent development, and workforce planning, translating business priorities into thoughtful, high-impact HR initiatives. Leveraging data and insight, the Director plays a key role in strengthening how the company attracts, develops, and retains exceptional talent.
Operating in a fast-paced, intellectually rigorous environment, this individual serves as a trusted advisor and coach to executive leaders, elevates manager effectiveness, and fosters a strong, healthy culture. The Director leads the Human Resources Generalist and collaborates with external partners as needed to support best-in-class people practices.
Responsibilities
- Collaborate closely with executive leadership to evaluate and refine organizational design in support of long-term strategy and growth.
- Develop and enhance structured, scalable programs for career progression, goal alignment, and performance evaluation.
- Oversee compensation strategy, benefits planning, and workforce forecasting to ensure competitive positioning and talent retention.
- Utilize workforce analytics and business insights to shape people strategy, advise leaders, and inform sound decision-making.
- Strategic partner in leadership conversations, identifying emerging organizational themes, risks, and opportunities.
- Drive initiatives that strengthen culture, elevate the employee experience, and build managerial capability.
- Manage employee relations matters thoughtfully and consistently, balancing empathy with practical business considerations.
- Ensure HR compliance and operational excellence through effective oversight of policies, processes, systems, and documentation.
- Provide leadership and development to the HR Generalist, supporting effective execution of day-to-day HR functions.
- Partner with outside advisors, legal experts, and vendors as needed for specialized projects, including benchmarking, investigations, and regulatory matters.
Ideal Experience
- 6–10 years of progressive Human Resources experience, including partnership with senior leadership and participation in strategic initiatives.
- Track record of building and enhancing scalable people processes such as performance management, total rewards, and leadership development programs.
- Experience operating effectively within complex organizational structures, particularly in high-growth or rapidly evolving environments.
- Trusted advisor who can leverage data, metrics, and insight to guide executive decision-making.
- Strategic thinker comfortable rolling up their sleeves to execute and adapt in ambiguous situations.
- Demonstrates sound judgment, high ethical standards, and strong emotional intelligence.
- Comprehensive understanding of employment regulations, compensation strategy, and core HR operations.
- Comfortable working within HRIS systems and utilizing reporting tools to drive informed business decisions.
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The Larko Group is a women-owned, premier staffing and recruiting firm based in Chicago with a nationwide reach. We specialize in Direct Hire, Temp-to-Hire, and Temporary/Project placements across a wide range of roles, including Executive Assistants, Administrative Assistants, Personal Assistants, Chief of Staff, Office Managers, Receptionists, General Office, Event Support, Project Management, and Customer Service.
