Strategic HR & Risk Executive (Public Sector)

City of Laguna Beach; Laguna Beach (CA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

City-paid health insurance

Job summary

The City of Laguna Beach is seeking an experienced Director of Human Resources and Risk Management to provide strategic leadership for HR and risk programs. Reporting to the City Manager, this executive role shapes culture, drives workforce initiatives, and serves as a trusted advisor to the Council and department heads.

The ideal candidate has executive HR leadership, strong labor relations, employment law knowledge, and a collaborative style.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in public administration, human resources management, or a related field.
• Eight or more years of increasingly responsible experience in human resources, labor relations, and risk management, with at least four in a supervisory or management capacity.
• Public sector or local government personnel management experience is highly desirable.
• California driver’s license is required.
• Professional HR certifications (SHRM/PHR or equivalent) desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the City’s HR and risk management functions aligned with strategic priorities.
• Partner with the City Manager, City Council, and executive leadership on workforce planning and organizational development.
• Oversee HR areas including labor relations, benefits, classification/compensation, recruitment, HRIS, and risk management.
• Lead labor negotiations and manage collective bargaining agreements.
• Direct risk management functions including workers’ compensation and workplace safety.
• Develop policies and programs to enhance employee engagement and organizational effectiveness.
• Provide guidance on employment law, policy interpretation, investigations, and employee relations.
• Present recommendations to the City Council and represent the City professionally.

Skills

Executive leadership

Labor relations

Employment law

Compensation & benefits

HRIS

Organizational development

Negotiation

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in public administration or related field

Master’s degree desirable

Job description

The City of Laguna Beach is seeking an experienced Director of Human Resources and Risk Management to provide strategic leadership for HR and risk programs. Reporting to the City Manager, this executive role shapes culture, drives workforce initiatives, and serves as a trusted advisor to the Council and department heads.

The ideal candidate has executive HR leadership, strong labor relations, employment law knowledge, and a collaborative style.