Senior Director of Human Resources | Nonprofit Organization

A mission-driven nonprofit organization is seeking a Senior Director of Human Resources to lead all aspects of HR strategy, operations, and organizational culture. This executive‑level role is ideal for a seasoned HR leader who is passionate about strengthening workforce development, building high-performing teams, and shaping a values-driven environment that supports meaningful community impact.

This is a full-time, on-site/hybrid leadership role based in the Chicago area.

About the Role

The Senior Director of Human Resources will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for building a best-in-class HR function that supports the organization’s mission and long-term strategic goals. This role oversees all core HR areas including compliance, employee relations, talent acquisition, retention, compensation, benefits, training, performance management, and workforce planning.

The ideal candidate is a forward-thinking HR leader who excels in both strategy and execution, and who brings a commitment to equity, accountability, and organizational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Serve as a senior advisor to executive leadership on all HR matters.
• Align HR initiatives with organizational priorities and long-term workforce needs.
• Partner with leadership on policy development, culture building, and organizational planning.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure full compliance with federal, state, and local labor laws.
• Oversee policy updates, handbooks, investigations, and audit readiness.
• Lead proactive employee relations to mitigate organizational risk.

Talent Acquisition & Retention

• Oversee full-cycle recruitment and onboarding across diverse programs.
• Build pipelines for clinical, administrative, and leadership roles.
• Implement retention strategies and long-term career pathways.

Employee Engagement & Development

• Foster a trusted, accessible HR function that supports all levels of staff.
• Lead conflict resolution, recognition programs, and engagement initiatives.
• Oversee performance management, leadership development, and succession planning.

Compensation & Benefits

• Conduct market and equity analyses to ensure competitive, fair compensation ranging up to $125,000.
• Oversee benefits administration and wellness initiatives.
• Advise leadership on compensation strategy and workforce planning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business, Organizational Leadership, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 10+ years of progressive HR leadership experience, including 5+ years at the senior leadership level.
• Strong knowledge of employment law, compliance, and HR best practices.
• Experience in nonprofit, healthcare, or human services settings strongly preferred.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and conflict resolution skills.
• HR certifications (PHR/SPHR or SHRM-CP/SCP) strongly preferred.