Senior HR Director: People, Policy & Growth

SustainableHR; Madison (WI); On-site; USD 85,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

SustainableHR in Madison, Wisconsin is seeking an experienced Human Resources Director to lead all HR operations—policy development, recruitment, onboarding, payroll and benefits, and compliance with applicable laws.

This hands-on executive collaborates with the leadership team to align HR strategy with business goals, improve employee engagement, manage HRIS and records, and guide managers on investigations, performance, and employee relations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in HR, Business Admin, Management, or related field.
• 6–10 years of progressive HR experience with focus on general HR management and employee relations.
• Experience leading HR operations and partnering with organizational leadership.
• Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local employment laws.
• Experience with employee relations, investigations, and performance management.
• Knowledge of compensation administration, benefits management, payroll processing, and employee development.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Microsoft 365, HRIS platforms, and payroll systems.
• Excellent communication, organizational, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, maintain confidentiality, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills to advise employees and management.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee daily HR operations, including managing HR staff and programs.
• Partner with leadership to develop and implement HR strategies aligned with goals.
• Manage full recruitment, interviewing, onboarding, and retention initiatives.
• Develop and update job descriptions for compliance.
• Create and oversee employee training and leadership development programs.
• Manage employee relations, investigations, and conflict resolution for managers.
• Oversee performance management, evaluations, and development plans.
• Analyze turnover trends and implement engagement strategies.
• Manage compensation programs and market wage research.
• Oversee biweekly payroll processing and financial reporting.
• Administer benefits programs with brokers and leadership.
• Oversee workers' compensation, OSHA compliance, and return-to-work programs.
• Ensure compliance with employment laws and reporting requirements.
• Maintain HR policies, equal opportunity, conduct, and safety guidelines.
• Maintain confidential records and HRIS data.
• Provide HR guidance on policies, leave, and workplace concerns.
• Represent the organization in personnel-related hearings and investigations.
• Assist with budgeting and continuous HR process improvement.
• Oversee administrative functions and cross-department support.

Skills

HR leadership

Employee relations

Policy development

Recruitment & onboarding

Performance management

Training & development

Executive collaboration

Conflict resolution

Analytical & problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in HR, Business Admin, Management, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office 365

HRIS systems

Payroll systems

ADP Payroll

Job description

SustainableHR in Madison, Wisconsin is seeking an experienced Human Resources Director to lead all HR operations—policy development, recruitment, onboarding, payroll and benefits, and compliance with applicable laws.

This hands-on executive collaborates with the leadership team to align HR strategy with business goals, improve employee engagement, manage HRIS and records, and guide managers on investigations, performance, and employee relations.