Senior Director Human Resources

Nelson Connects; California; Hybrid; USD 170,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

Nelson Connects is seeking a strategic, hands-on Senior Director of Human Resources to lead our people operations, report to the COO, and guide a team of HR and Talent Acquisition professionals. The role emphasizes a high-performing, inclusive culture and operational execution.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in HR with leadership experience, expertise in HRIS/ATS, and a track record of strategic, business-focused HR solutions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in HR, Business Administration, or related field.
• 10+ years of progressive Human Resources experience.
• 5+ years of leadership and people management experience.
• Experience leading multiple HR functions (employee relations, talent acquisition, compensation, benefits, compliance, performance management).
• Experience with HRIS, ATS, performance management platforms, and benefits administration systems.
• Strong knowledge of employment law and HR best practices.
• Excellent communication, relationship-building, coaching, and influencing skills.
• Strategic thinking while remaining hands-on and operational.
• Must have California driver’s license and ability to travel within Northern California.

Responsibilities

• Lead all HR functions including talent acquisition, onboarding, employee relations, performance management, compensation, benefits, learning and development, compliance, and HR systems.
• Develop and execute people strategies that support organizational goals and promote a high-performance culture.
• Partner with executives to implement HR solutions that drive business results and engagement.
• Oversee recruitment, retention and onboarding to attract top talent.
• Ensure hiring practices are effective, equitable, and aligned with organizational needs.
• Coach leaders and managers on performance management and development.
• Manage compensation and benefits programs, and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Oversee HR policies, budgets, and HRIS administration.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Communication

Employee engagement

Coaching

Change management

Education

Bachelor's degree in HR, Business Administration, or related field

Tools

HRIS

ATS

Performance mgmt systems

Benefits administration systems

Job description

Travel: Periodic travel throughout Northern California

Compensation $170,000 - $195,000

About the Opportunity

We are seeking a strategic, hands-on Senior Director of Human Resources to lead and elevate our people operations function. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, this role oversees a team of HR and Talent Acquisition professionals and serves as a key leader in building a high-performing, mission-driven organization.

The ideal candidate is an experienced HR executive who thrives in a dynamic environment, can balance strategy with execution, and is passionate about fostering an engaged, inclusive, and accountable workplace culture.

This position requires a hybrid work schedule, with a minimum of three days per week onsite in the East Bay and periodic travel to locations throughout Northern California.

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of background and credit checks.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Human Resources Leadership

• Lead all HR functions, including talent acquisition, onboarding, employee relations, performance management, compensation, benefits, learning and development, compliance, and HR systems.
• Develop and execute people strategies that support organizational goals and promote a positive, high-performance culture.
• Partner with executive leadership to identify and implement innovative HR solutions that drive business results and employee engagement.

Talent Acquisition & Workforce Planning

• Oversee recruitment, retention, and onboarding initiatives to attract and retain top talent.
• Ensure hiring practices are effective, equitable, and aligned with organizational needs.
• Lead and mentor the HR and Talent Acquisition team, promoting excellence in service delivery and performance.

Employee Relations & Performance Management

• Provide guidance on employee relations matters, workplace investigations, performance improvement plans, and separation processes.
• Coach leaders and managers on performance management, employee engagement, leadership development, and conflict resolution.
• Oversee performance evaluation programs and professional development initiatives.

Compensation, Benefits & Compliance

• Manage compensation and benefits programs to ensure market competitiveness, internal equity, and financial sustainability.
• Conduct regular market reviews and oversee annual benefits renewals.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations.
• Oversee workers' compensation, unemployment claims, employee leaves, accommodations, personnel records, and HRIS administration.

Operations & Budget Management

• Develop, implement, and maintain HR policies, procedures, and programs.
• Partner with executive leadership to manage departmental budgets and ensure fiscal accountability.
• Lead special projects and other initiatives as assigned.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive Human Resources experience.
• 5+ years of leadership and people management experience, preferably within a nonprofit or mission-driven organization.
• Experience leading multiple HR functions, including employee relations, talent acquisition, compensation, benefits, compliance, and performance management.
• Experience with HRIS, applicant tracking systems (ATS), performance management platforms, and benefits administration systems.
• Strong knowledge of employment law and HR best practices.
• Excellent communication, relationship-building, coaching, and influencing skills.
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically while remaining highly operational and hands‑on.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to maintain the highest level of confidentiality and professionalism.
• Valid California driver's license, reliable transportation, and ability to travel within Northern California as needed.

Preferred

• Senior-level HR certification (SPHR, SHRM-SCP, or equivalent).
• Experience supporting mission-driven, human services, nonprofit, healthcare, social services, or community-focused organizations.
• Experience with accreditation, regulatory compliance, or highly regulated environments.