Director of People

DU Family of Companies is a network of fire protection, life safety, and security service companies, protecting people and property across 30+ locations and 11 states. At the head of our life safety network, the Davis-Ulmer Support team, drives the motto, "we protect what you value most."

Due to continued growth, we are looking to add a Director of People to our Corporate Support team in Rochester, NY. The Director of People is a key strategic leader responsible for overseeing the Human Resources and Talent departments. This role drives the development and execution of people strategies that foster a high‑performing, inclusive, and engaged workplace culture. The Director of People will lead workforce planning, talent acquisition, employee relations, organizational development, performance management, compensation and benefits, and learning initiatives. Collaborating closely with executive leadership, this position ensures HR policies and talent practices support the organization’s overall mission, values, and business goals. The Director of People serves as a trusted advisor, championing employee engagement, diversity, and organizational growth, while cultivating an environment where employees and leaders collaboratively thrive.

The Role

Support leaders in the achievement of strategic objectives through providing consultative support and delivering programs in all areas of strategic human resources including compensation, talent development strategies, recruiting, workforce planning, organizational design, performance conversations, employee engagement, and learning and development.

Recognizes that it is essential to be a business leader with an expertise in HR thereby understanding business imperatives and translating them into practical solutions that drive tangible results. While operating at a strategic level with senior leaders, can also move seamlessly to an operational mode and turn ideas into action. Some examples of specific areas of responsibility include:

• Partnering with leaders on a range of activities including leadership capability, talent strategies, team efficiency and organizational design.
• Utilizing people analytics and metrics to develop solutions that address gaps and capitalize on opportunities.
• Supporting organizational resilience by developing the capacity and readiness for change.
• Providing expert guidance and support on addressing performance concerns/issues within the organization.
• Appling sophisticated knowledge of employment law and exercising good judgement to effectively resolve employment relations issues in partnership with leaders and legal advisors.
• Supporting workforce planning, recruiting and initiatives to ensure that the short, medium, and long‑term needs of the business are met.
• Advising on performance and quarterly rewards planning processes and compensation activities during the year.
• Ensuring end‑to‑end HR service delivery by maintaining partnerships with the People functions.

Success in the role is achieved through consistently demonstrating behaviors associated with a set of core skills. You have embodied these skills in an environment that is consistent with the pace and scale of the business:

• Get Results : Energized by achievement; sets stretch targets and delivers exceptional results in dynamic conditions.
• Drive Change : builds an environment where challenges are embraced as opportunities.
• Strategic Thought Leadership : clear strategic thinker who recognizes and seizes opportunities. Consistently applies up to date professional expertise to develop and optimize a winning strategy.
• Energizes Others and Champions Collaboration : applies understanding of people and clear communication to build partnerships and work collaboratively to meet shared objectives.
• Owns Personal Growth and Learning : understands the impact of their actions have on others and seeks out knowledge and opportunities for learning and self improvement.

Education / Experience

• Expert knowledge of HR theories, practices and principles as normally acquired through the completion of a Bachelor’s Degree in human resources, business management or OD. Master’s Degree preferred but not required.
• Minimum of 8‑10 years of demonstrated experience partnering with and influencing leaders at all levels, helping deliver strategic people initiatives that positively impact business results.
• Experience remotely supporting multiple locations and 1,000+ people.
• Union experience preferred.

Company History

Founded in 1946 in Buffalo, NY by Herman Ulmer and Joseph Davis, Davis‑Ulmer has grown from a local fire protection company into the DU Family of Companies — a full‑service life safety provider delivering fire sprinkler, fire alarm and detection, suppression, and security solutions. As part of APi Group, we bring together a family of fire protection and security companies across multiple regions of the U.S., united by a shared commitment to protecting what our customers and partners value most.

As the foundational division of the DU Family of Companies, powered by APi Group, we benefit from the strength of a leading life safety network while maintaining the responsiveness and relationships of a local partner. Our culture is built on the belief that Everyone is a Leader: we invest in our people, empower them to take ownership, and encourage each business unit to operate as a high‑performing, entrepreneurial office. Grounded in quality, teamwork, technical excellence, and customer‑focused solutions, we are committed to delivering expert support and consistently exceeding expectations.

Why Choose Davis‑Ulmer Family of Companies?

• Competitive Compensation: We offer competitive pay rates for experienced professionals, ensuring your skills are recognized and rewarded appropriately.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Enjoy an industry‑leading benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and additional perks, ensuring your health and well‑being are taken care of.
• Strength of the Family: The Davis‑Ulmer Family of Companies, with over 30 locations across the East Coast and Midwest, epitomizes the strength of a team‑first mindset. Embracing a culture of collaboration, we unite to share knowledge, resources, and best practices across our network of branches. This collective approach strengthens us as a cohesive group, amplifying our impact far beyond what any individual business unit could achieve alone.
• Backed by APi Group: As a subsidiary of APi Group, a publicly traded, multi‑billion‑dollar corporation headquartered in Minnesota, we provide the financial stability and support needed for success. Benefit from world‑class training and leadership development opportunities, backed by a powerhouse in the Fire Life Safety & Security industry.
• Long‑Term Career Relationships: Many of our employees have been with us for 20+ years! We believe in investing in the right people, fostering enduring professional relationships that benefit both individuals and the company alike. Join us and become part of a community where your dedication is recognized and valued for the long term.
• Values Match: We prioritize hiring individuals whose values align with ours. Our commitment to value‑driven recruitment is a cornerstone of our People/Talent Development Operating Code.

The pay range is $120,000‑$160,000 per year , depending on job‑related knowledge, skills, and experience. This position is eligible for annual bonus and profit sharing based on company performance in addition to other benefits that support the total well‑being of you and your family.

DU Family of Companies is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.