Director of Human Resources

Description:

Job Summary:

The Human Resources Director is a strategic leadership role responsible for overseeing all aspects of human resources operations, including talent management, benefits administration, and organizational culture. This role also plays a key part in fostering collaboration with the City of Norfolk to support shared initiatives and promote a unified “One Zoo” mentality.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute HR strategies that align with organizational goals and promote a high-performance culture.
• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, performance management, and compliance with all applicable employment laws and regulations.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to leadership on organizational development, workforce planning, and change management.
• Work in close partnership with the Executive Director to align human resources strategies with organizational priorities, provide high-level counsel on workforce and culture and ensure HR initiatives effectively support the zoo’s strategic direction.
• Champion diversity, equity, inclusion, and employee engagement initiatives.
• Design, implement, and manage comprehensive employee benefits programs, including health, retirement, wellness, and leave policies.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for benefits vendors and ensure competitive, cost-effective offerings.
• Educate employees on benefits options and ensure smooth enrollment and administration processes.
• Monitor trends and recommend enhancements to support employee well-being and retention.
• Collaborate closely with the City of Norfolk departments, including Human Resources, to support joint initiatives, policies, and strategic priorities.
• Lead and support programs that promote a cohesive “One Zoo” culture, integrating city and organizational efforts.
• Represent the organization in cross-functional committees, working groups, and community engagements.
• Promote a unified, mission-driven culture that emphasizes collaboration, transparency, and shared purpose.
• Lead initiatives that enhance employee engagement and reinforce the “One Zoo” mentality.
• Performs other duties as required.

Requirements:

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong supervisory and leadership skills.
• Ability to adapt to the needs of the organization and employees.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
• Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Thorough knowledge of employment-related laws and regulations.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Proficiency with or the ability to quickly learn the organization’s HRIS and talent management systems.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field (Master's preferred).
• A minimum of 7-10 years of progressive HR leadership experience.
• Experience managing benefits programs and vendor relationships.
• Demonstrated experience working with government or municipal partners preferred.
• Strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Professional HR certification (SHRM-SCP, SPHR) preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.