Human Resources Business Partner

About Cornerstone Bank

Cornerstone Bank was established in 2017, built on a legacy of community support and a commitment to helping individuals and businesses thrive. With deep roots in Worcester County and a strong presence throughout Central Massachusetts, Cornerstone combines the strength of a traditional bank with the personalized service of a local institution. Our community-based banking model allows us to deliver exceptional service with a personal touch-every time. At Cornerstone Bank, we foster a collaborative and inclusive workplace where innovation, teamwork, accountability, and excellence are more than just values-they're how we work every day. We empower our employees to grow professionally, serve their communities, and deliver outstanding customer experiences.

Summary:

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for people and a drive to make a real impact? PeoplesBank is looking for a dynamic HR Business Partner to join our team! In this collaborative, hands-on role, you'll champion our culture, support the full HR lifecycle, and lead initiatives that shape the employee experience-from recruitment and performance management to engagement and compliance. If you're ready to bring innovative HR practices to life and help build a workplace where people thrive, we want to hear from you! This is a hybrid role, based in our Southbridge, MA location with some travel to PeoplesBank Executive Offices in Holyoke, MA.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the full HR lifecycle, including onboarding, benefits administration, performance management, and offboarding processes.
• Execute and promote PeoplesBank employee programs related to compensation, training, and development.
• Participate in full-cycle recruitment efforts: source, interview, and hire qualified candidates in collaboration with department managers.
• Develop and update job descriptions based on evolving departmental needs and role requirements.
• Respond to employment-related inquiries from applicants, employees, and supervisors, escalating complex issues as needed.
• Interpret and communicate HR policies, procedures, and employment laws to ensure organizational compliance.
• Investigate and resolve employee relations matters, including complaints, harassment allegations, and performance concerns.
• Provide coaching and performance management support to managers, including guidance on disciplinary actions and career development.
• Foster a positive work environment by enhancing employee relations, morale, and retention through strategic HR initiatives.
• Drive employee engagement by planning and executing internal events and recommending engagement tools and strategies.
• Administer HR programs across talent management, compensation, employee engagement, and workplace safety.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws; recommend and implement best practices.
• Stay current on HR trends, regulatory changes, and emerging technologies to inform HR strategy and operations.
• Lead special projects focused on HR technology, process improvement, and policy development.
• Complete annual compliance training and uphold bank-wide service standards and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with HR team members to maintain legal compliance and enforce company policies consistently.
• May supervise staff as needed.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in a related field
• Minimum of 5 years related experience

Computer/Technical Skills:

• High level of proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Demonstrated ability to navigate and leverage HRIS and talent and learning management systems.
• Experience with ADP highly desired.

Certifications, Licenses:

• PHR or SHRM-CP certification a plus

Skills Required:

• Highly developed written and verbal communication skills
• Exposure to and familiarity with HR best practices and demonstrated ability to apply that knowledge in the workplace
• Ability to work independently and execute sound judgment in making decisions
• Strong interpersonal, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Self-directed and a quick learner with the ability to achieve results while working under the pressures of shifting priorities in a dynamic and agile environment

INDEPENDENT ACTION

Performs work independently within scope of established guidelines and practices. Consults with Manager where clarification or exception to Bank policy may be required.


NOTE: These statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work involved for this job. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for this job.


Cornerstone Bank is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with Equal Opportunity Guidelines and the Americans with Disabilities Act, Cornerstone Bank provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer