Director, Human Resources

The Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) is one of the largest trade associations in the nation, representing more than 300 heating, ventilation, air-conditioning (HVAC), water heating, and commercial refrigeration manufacturers from all parts of the world.

AHRI is seeking a Director, Human Resources to lead professional development and core HR programs that strengthen workforce capability and support employee professional growth. This role combines strategic program ownership with hands-on leadership across learning and development, recruiting, performance management, onboarding, and policy administration. The ideal candidate will be comfortable building strong partnerships, guiding multiple initiatives, and maintaining reliable processes that support a high-quality employee experience. The salary range for this position is $125,000 - $160,000.

Core Responsibilities

• Lead the design, implementation, and improvement of AHRI’s professional development portfolio, aligning programs with workforce needs, career growth, and organizational priorities.

• Manage learning operations and vendor relationships, including facilitators, coaches, consultants, content providers, scheduling, enrollment, reporting, and service quality.

• Partner with the HR Manager to oversee the performance appraisal process, monitor completion and data quality, and support consistent application of performance standards.

• Serve as a resource to managers and employees on HR policies, workplace questions, employee relations matters, and development tools.

Required Skills & Abilities

• Strong program leadership skills, with the ability to coordinate multiple initiatives, manage timelines, and keep work moving toward defined outcomes.

• Sound judgment in handling confidential information, policy interpretation, and employee-related matters.

• Clear written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present recommendations, explain processes, and support alignment across stakeholders.

• Experience using data, feedback, and program results to evaluate effectiveness and guide improvements.

• Comfort supervising staff, delegating work, and supporting team development through coaching and accountability.

• Working knowledge of recruiting operations, performance management processes, and employee development practices.

Other Requirements

• BA/BS degree in Human Resources, Business, Education, or a related field from a nationally accredited university or college.

• Minimum ten years of experience as a human resources professional.

• Minimum three years of demonstrated experience in supervisory human resources management .

• Minimum two years of progressively responsible experience leading employee professional development, learning and development, or talent development programs, including program planning, implementation, vendor or budget management, stakeholder partnership, and evaluation of outcomes.

• Intermediate-level proficiency with Microsoft 365 programs.

• Active/current HRCI SPHR, SHRM-CP, or ATD certification.

AHRI offers a full benefits package which includes health insurance (dental, medical, HSA contributions), a 401k plan with company matching, opportunities for professional development through our tuition assistance program, and a friendly work environment.

The work location for this position is Arlington, Virginia.  Due to the nature of this position, there is a general expectation of daily, in-person attendance in the office and at meetings . 

Candidates may apply to this position by visiting the AHRI Careers page at
PLEASE, NO PLACEMENT AGENCIES OR RECRUITERS.