Chief Human Resources Officer

Wake County, NC; Raleigh (NC); On-site; USD 159,000 - 286,000; Full time

Job summary

Wake County is seeking a Chief Human Resources Officer to lead 70+ HR professionals across eight functional areas in a large public-sector organization. The role requires unifying departments, driving system-wide improvements, and reestablishing trust through a people-first, in-person leadership style.

The ideal candidate will have deep HR leadership experience in complex government settings, with a track record in compensation modernization and change management.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s in HR Management, Public Administration, or Business is required.
• Eight years of related experience, including four in senior leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead 70+ HR professionals across eight functional areas.
• Drive system-wide improvements in public-sector HR operations.
• Unify departments and foster a people-first culture.
• Support Talent Acquisition, Benefits, Compensation, Organizational Development & Training, Payroll, and Employee Relations.

Skills

Team leadership

Collaboration

Change management

Education

Bachelor’s in HR Management, Public Administration, or Business

Master’s in Public Administration, HR, or Business

SHRM or PSHR certification

Job description

Are you a forward-thinking, people-focused leader with a deep understanding of public sector operations and change management? If so, you might be the perfect fit to become Wake County’s next Chief Human Resources Officer! We’re looking for an exceptional strategic partner who is:

• Skilled in leading high-performing teams across diverse HR functions
• Adept at unifying departments and fostering a collaborative, people-first culture
• Experienced with implementing major systems and compensation modernization efforts

With a population of over 1.2 million, Wake County is one of the fastest-growing counties in the United States, known for its strong economy, high quality of life, and exceptional public services. Located in the heart of North Carolina’s Research Triangle, Wake County offers top-rated schools, world-class healthcare, abundant outdoor recreation, and a thriving arts and culture scene. Home to Raleigh and 11 other municipalities, it balances vibrant urban amenities with suburban comfort.

The Human Resources Department provides County-wide HR support including Talent Acquisition, Benefits, Compensation, Organizational Development & Training, Payroll, and Employee Relations. Reporting to the County Manager, the new Chief Human Resources Officer will lead 70+ HR professionals across eight functional areas. The ideal candidate will have deep HR leadership experience in a complex, public-sector environment. They will demonstrate emotional intelligence, a collaborative mindset, and the ability to unify and inspire a diverse team. Successful candidates will be strategic thinkers and effective communicators who lead with empathy and resilience. They must understand how to drive system-wide improvements while supporting frontline staff and internal clients. A people-first, in-person leadership style is essential to reestablish trust and connection.

Required qualifications for this position include:

• Bachelor’s in HR Management, Public Administration, or Business
• Eight years of related experience, including four in senior leadership

Preferred qualifications include:

• Master’s in Public Administration, HR, or Business
• Department head or executive leadership experience in local government
• SHRM or PSHRA certification

The salary range for this position is $158,953 to $286,114, depending on qualifications and education.

For more information on this position, contact:
Billy Owens, Senior Vice President
[e-mail] | 972-989-3686