Human Resources Manager

Benskin Talent Partners is conducting this search on behalf of PGAV, a privately held, principal-led planning and design firm headquartered in downtown St. Louis. Our client is seeking a Human Resources Manager to build and lead a strategic, scalable HR function across its multi-location, multi-division organization. Our client creates remarkable places for people - theme parks, zoos, aquariums, museums, and world-class destination experiences. Their portfolio spans the globe, including some of the world's most recognized destination attractions. This is a firm whose people are deeply passionate about what they build, and the culture reflects it: work hard, play hard, and genuinely care about each other. With approximately 140-150 employees across three divisions (PGAV Destinations, PGAV Architects, and PGAV Planners) and offices in St. Louis, Kansas City, and Orlando, the firm is growing rapidly and expanding internationally. The incoming HR Manager is not replacing a formal system - they are stepping into an opportunity to build one. This role is best suited for a seasoned HR generalist who thrives in both strategic and hands-on work. The ideal candidate brings deep functional expertise, a genuine seat-at-the-table presence with senior leaders, and the confidence to modernize an HR function inside a firm that is ready and eager to invest in it. Reporting to a Principal who oversees the HR function, this leader will: RESPONSIBILITIES Build and Elevate the HR Function The HR Manager owns all aspects of the function, including employee relations, performance management, compensation, benefits, talent acquisition, compliance, and HRIS. This role partners directly with principals and senior leaders to align HR strategy with business objectives, serving as a trusted advisor on organizational effectiveness and people-related matters. Drive Compliance and Operational Excellence This leader will conduct a full employee handbook review and update, implement discrimination and harassment training, establish consistent FMLA and leave practices, and ensure employment law compliance across all locations and states. They will own and optimize Paylocity - assessing underutilized modules and driving full adoption across payroll, onboarding, and performance management. Build Structure Where Little Exists The incoming HR Manager will create job descriptions for every role, build a formal compensation framework, implement background verification and drug testing, develop HR SOPs, convert paper files to electronic records, and standardize the interviewing and hiring process. A recent independent HR audit identified these as immediate priorities - candidates who are energized by this list are the right fit. Strengthen Culture and Employee Relations Our client has a work hard, play hard culture built on genuine care for its people. The HR Manager will serve as a trusted, approachable presence for a workforce that is still warming up to a formal HR function - reframing the role from policing to partnering. They will support leaders in communications and change management and implement exit interviews and employee engagement surveys. QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field required 7+ years of progressive, hands-on HR experience; must have owned the full HR function Deep generalist expertise across employee relations, compliance, talent management, and compensation Hands-on HRIS ownership experience; Paylocity experience a plus but not required Strong working knowledge of federal and multi-state employment law Credible, polished communicator who can engage effectively with principals and senior leaders Comfortable being both strategic and tactical - this role requires both, often on the same day HR certification (PHR/SPHR or SHRM-CP/SCP) strongly preferred Background in architecture, design, engineering, or creative professional services a plus COMPENSATION & BENEFITS Our client offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience, including: 401(k) with Roth option and a generous employer match Generous vacation accrual based on tenure; sick time; 7.5 paid holidays 4 weeks paid family leave; 6 additional weeks for birth mothers Medical (PPO & HDHP/HSA), Dental, and Vision - shared cost Life/AD&D, Long-Term Disability, Business Travel Accident - employer paid Professional certification award 20 WFH days per fiscal year (full or half-day increments) Subsidized parking in downtown St. Louis Quarterly travel to Kansas City and Orlando offices #J-18808-Ljbffr