Human Resources Director

Human Resources DirectorThis position is responsible for overseeing and administering the County's human resources functions, including policy application, employee relations, and personnel programs.The position operates with delegated authority from the County Administrator to make and enforce routine human resources decisions, while coordinating with the County Administrator on high-risk, precedent-setting, or financially significant matters. The HR Director is accountable for the reliability, consistency, and effectiveness of the County's human resource's function and for reducing the need for routine escalation of personnel matters.The role combines operational responsibility with organization-wide accountability and requires sound judgment in balancing legal compliance, fiscal constraints, and organizational needs including but not limited to engagement and retention.Essential Duties & ResponsibilitiesManage the County's human resource functions, with responsibility for service delivery, system integrity, and consistency of application across departments.Provides guidance on interpreting and applying personnel policies, procedures, and classification standards; supports consistent implementation and identifies and addresses deviations as needed.Manages the County's classification and compensation systems, including position evaluation, pay structure administration, and labor market analysis.Ensures effective recruitment and selection processes through assigned staff, including adherence to established standards and County hiring practices.Provides guidance on employee relations matters, including performance management, discipline, and workplace issues; requires corrective action where policies are not followed.Participates in investigations and gathers information; determines appropriate course of action in consultation with Corporation Counsel and the County Administrator as needed.Coordinates labor relations activities, including contract administration, grievance handling, and participation in negotiations, in coordination with County leadership and legal counsel.Develops, updates, and enforces personnel policies and procedures; ensures alignment with applicable laws and organizational expectations.Ensures compliance with federal and state employment laws and regulations; identifies risks and implements corrective measures.Ensures effective administration of HRIS, personnel records, and benefits functions through assigned staff.Prepares and administers the HR budget; provides analysis and recommendations related to personnel costs and workforce planning.Advises the County Administrator and governing committees on personnel matters, providing analysis, options, and recommendations.Attends and participates in committee and board meetings as required.Prioritizes workload and allocates departmental resources within a lean staffing environment, balancing transactional demands with higher-level organizational needs.Key Competencies & SkillsHR Program Administration: Oversees and coordinates core human resources functions, ensuring consistent application across departments.Policy Interpretation: Applies personnel policies, employment laws, and labor agreements to workplace situations with consistency and accuracy.Workforce Analysis: Evaluates positions, compensation structures, and workforce data to support organizational and pay decisions.Employee Relations: Addresses performance, discipline, and workplace issues; recommends and implements appropriate corrective actions.Labor Relations: Coordinates contract administration, grievance processes, and supports collective bargaining activities in alignment with County leadership and legal counsel.Risk Assessment: Identifies legal and operational risks in personnel matters and develops appropriate, defensible responses.Advisory Support: Provides guidance and recommendations to leadership on human resources issues and organizational impacts.Policy Development: Develops, updates, and implements HR policies and procedures to ensure compliance and consistency.Confidentiality & Judgment: Handles sensitive information with discretion and exercises independent judgment in decision-making.Communication: Conveys information clearly in writing and verbally to employees, leadership, committees, and the public.Required Education & ExperienceBachelor's degree in Human Resources, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field. A master's degree is preferred.At least five (5) years of progressively responsible human resources experience, including two (2) years of supervisory or leadership experience in employee relations, classification and compensation, and policy administration.Experience in labor relations, including contract administration and grievance handling.Demonstrated experience applying employment laws and personnel policies in a complex organization.Professional certification (e.g., SPHR, PHR, SHRM-SCP, SHRM-CP) obtained within one year after hire.Valid Wisconsin driver's license.Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered where permitted.Preferred Education & ExperienceExperience in public sector human resources, preferably in local government, is strongly desired.Physical & Work Environment RequirementsWork is primarily performed in an office setting with minimal exposure to adverse environmental conditions. Duties require extended periods of sitting, computer use, and communication via telephone and in person. Occasional standing, walking, and light lifting (up to 10 pounds) may be required. Frequent interaction with employees, supervisors, and the public is expected.Emergency Response StatementIn an effort to provide for continuity of County government and to cope with the problems of the emergency, you may be required to work during a proclaimed state of emergency, consistent with Sec. 323.14, Wis. Stats. and County emergency management plans and programs.Equal Opportunity StatementDoor County is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.DisclaimerThe above is intended to describe the general content of the requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.