human resources manager

Keewaytinook Okimakanak Board of Education; Northwestern Ontario; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional educational organization in Northwestern Ontario is seeking a Human Resources Manager to transform and lead its HR function. The role requires strategic leadership, compliance with HR legislation, and a commitment to equity and inclusion. Ideal candidates must have a Canadian HR professional designation and extensive experience in both unionized and non-unionized settings, preferably in education or Indigenous organizations. This is a three-year term contract with occasional travel requirements.

Qualifications

• A proven track record of transforming HR functions into high-performing departments.
• Experience in unionized and non-unionized environments in education or public sector.
• Deep knowledge of Indigenous governance and community engagement.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement a comprehensive HR strategy for organizational growth.
• Review and update HR policies to ensure compliance with legislation.
• Lead recruitment, onboarding, retention, and succession planning.

Skills

Strategic planning

Interpersonal skills

Conflict resolution

Employment law knowledge

Cultural sensitivity

Education

Canadian Human Resources Professional designation

Master of Business Administration (MBA) in HR

Job description

The Human Resources Manager will play a transformational role in rebuilding the Human Resources (HR) function from the ground up for the School Board. This position will establish HR as a stand-alone department that effectively contributes to the overall success of the organization and the students we serve. The successful candidate will provide visionary leadership, implement best practices in HR management, and ensure alignment of HR services with the Board’s strategic direction, values, and community-based mission.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Strategic Leadership

• Design and implement a comprehensive HR strategy that supports organizational growth, employee engagement, and student outcomes
• Build and lead the HR department as a core service area, ensuring it operates as an effective, stand-alone function
• Provide strategic advice to the Director of Education and Senior Leadership Team on all HR-related matters

Policy & Compliance

• Review, update, and develop HR policies, procedures, and practices to ensure compliance with federal and provincial employment legislation, Indigenous rights, and School Board governance frameworks
• Develop risk mitigation strategies related to labour relations, employee performance, and workplace safety
• Ensure alignment with best practices in Indigenous education and community-based organizational governance

Talent Management

• Lead recruitment, onboarding, retention, and succession planning strategies across all schools and departments
• Develop performance management frameworks to foster accountability, growth, and professional learning
• Establish and oversee professional development initiatives that align with organizational needs

Employee Relations & Engagement

• Build positive employee relations through transparent, fair, and culturally respectful practices
• Provide leadership in conflict resolution, grievance handling, and disciplinary processes
• Champion a culture of equity, inclusion, and wellness that supports both staff and students

Organizational Development

• Design HR systems, tools, and metrics for data-driven decision-making
• Introduce HR technologies and processes that modernize the department and improve efficiency
• Lead change management initiatives to support organizational transformation and resilience

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education & Credentials

• Canadian Human Resources Professional designation (CHRP, CHRL, or CHRE)
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Human Resources
• Combination of advanced education and relevant HR leadership experience

Experience

• Proven track record of building or transforming an HR function into a high-performing department
• Experience in unionized and non-unionized environments, preferably within education, public sector, or Indigenous organizations
• Knowledge of Indigenous governance, culture, and community engagement considered a strong asset

Skills & Competencies

• Strong strategic planning and organizational development skills
• Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and conflict-resolution abilities
• Deep knowledge of employment law, occupational health and safety, and HR best practices in Canada
• Ability to balance cultural values and organizational requirements in a First Nations context
• High integrity, confidentiality, and cultural sensitivity

Terms of Employment

• Three-year term contract
• Occasional travel required within the region and to community schools

Application Process:

Submit your cover letter, resume, and 3 professional references