Human Resources Business Partner

PeoplesBank; Holyoke (MA); Hybrid; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

PeoplesBank is seeking an experienced HR Business Partner to champion our culture, support the full HR lifecycle, and lead initiatives that shape the employee experience. The role involves recruitment, performance management, engagement, and compliance in a collaborative, hands-on environment.

This hybrid position will operate from our Executive Offices in Holyoke, MA and an additional office in Southbridge, MA, offering the right blend of strategic influence and hands-on execution.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years related experience.
• PHR or SHRM-CP certification a plus

Responsibilities

• Support full HR lifecycle: onboarding, benefits administration, performance management, offboarding.
• Promote employee programs related to compensation, training, and development.
• Lead full-cycle recruitment with managers across departments.
• Develop and update job descriptions based on needs.
• Respond to employment inquiries from applicants and employees.
• Interpret and communicate HR policies and laws for compliance.
• Investigate employee relations issues and address concerns.
• Coach managers on performance and disciplinary actions.
• Foster positive employee relations and retention via strategic HR initiatives.
• Plan and run internal events to boost engagement.
• Administer talent management, compensation, engagement, and safety programs.
• Stay current on HR trends and regulatory changes.
• Lead special HR projects on technology, processes, and policy development.
• Complete annual compliance training and uphold service standards.

Skills

Written communication

Verbal communication

HR best practices

Independence

Judgment

Interpersonal skills

Negotiation skills

Conflict resolution

Organizational skills

Time management

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Integrity & confidentiality

Fast learner

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field

Minimum of 5 years related experience

Tools

MS Office

HRIS

ADP

Cornerstone

Job description

Welcome to PeoplesBank! We are the largest mutually chartered bank in Western Mass and Northern Connecticut, we are proud to lead the way in green values, sustainable energy financing, and charitable giving. Our commitment to operating in the best interest of our customers is matched by our dedication to fostering an inclusive and engaging work environment. We offer excellent compensation, workplace flexibility, and a competitive benefits package to our associates. Our award-winning culture has earned us recognition as the Best Place to Work and Best Local Bank. Join our team of dedicated and innovative individuals and be a part of our dynamic, successful organization. Let's make a difference together!

Summary

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for people and a drive to make a real impact? PeoplesBank is looking for a dynamic HR Business Partner to join our team! In this collaborative, hands‑on role, you’ll champion our culture, support the full HR lifecycle, and lead initiatives that shape the employee experience—from recruitment and performance management to engagement and compliance. If you're ready to bring innovative HR practices to life and help build a workplace where people thrive, we want to hear from you! This is a hybrid role and will work out of our Executive Offices in Holyoke, MA and other office in Southbridge, MA.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Support the full HR lifecycle, including onboarding, benefits administration, performance management, and offboarding processes.
• Execute and promote PeoplesBank employee programs related to compensation, training, and development.
• Participate in full-cycle recruitment efforts: source, interview, and hire qualified candidates in collaboration with department managers.
• Develop and update job descriptions based on evolving departmental needs and role requirements.
• Respond to employment‑related inquiries from applicants, employees, and supervisors, escalating complex issues as needed.
• Interpret and communicate HR policies, procedures, and employment laws to ensure organizational compliance.
• Investigate and resolve employee relations matters, including complaints, harassment allegations, and performance concerns.
• Provide coaching and performance management support to managers, including guidance on disciplinary actions and career development.
• Foster a positive work environment by enhancing employee relations, morale, and retention through strategic HR initiatives.
• Drive employee engagement by planning and executing internal events and recommending engagement tools and strategies.
• Administer HR programs across talent management, compensation, employee engagement, and workplace safety.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws; recommend and implement best practices.
• Stay current on HR trends, regulatory changes, and emerging technologies to inform HR strategy and operations.
• Lead special projects focused on HR technology, process improvement, and policy development.
• Complete annual compliance training and uphold bank‑wide service standards and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with HR team members to maintain legal compliance and enforce company policies consistently.
• May supervise staff as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education And Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field
• Minimum of 5 years related experience

Computer/Technical Skills

• High level of proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)
• Demonstrated ability to navigate and leverage HRIS and talent and learning management systems
• Experience with ADP and Cornerstone highly desired

Certifications, Licenses

• PHR or SHRM-CP certification a plus

Skills Required

• Highly developed written and verbal communication skills
• Exposure to and familiarity with HR best practices and demonstrated ability to apply that knowledge in the workplace
• Ability to work independently and execute sound judgment in making decisions
• Strong interpersonal, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Self-directed and a quick learner with the ability to achieve results while working under the pressures of shifting priorities in a dynamic and agile environment

Work Environment And Physical Demands

The working conditions and physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.