Human Resources and Labor Relations Director

Human Resources & Labor Relations DirectorAs a key member of the County's executive leadership team, the Human Resources & Labor Relations Director shapes the future of work for Calhoun County. This role is both strategic and hands-on, driving people-first initiatives, fostering a high-performing and supportive workplace culture, and ensuring the County remains an employer of choice. This leader sets the vision for workforce strategy, talent development, labor relations, and employee engagement while also overseeing the HR operations that make it all possible. The HR and Labor Relations Director builds trusted partnerships with department heads, elected officials, and union leaders, balancing innovation with compliance. The role also serves as the County's chief labor negotiator and is a key voice in shaping organizational priorities.Primary Duties & Responsibilities:People Strategy and Leadership: Define and drive the County's people strategy including recruitment, retention, growth, and belonging while aligning with organizational priorities. Lead the HR team with purpose, accountability and innovation.Labor Relations Expertise: Serve as the County's lead labor negotiator, building collaborative relationships with union leadership, guiding collective bargaining for 10 contracts, and ensuring fair, constructive outcomes in negotiations, grievances, and arbitrations.Culture and Engagement: Champion initiatives that support employee wellbeing, recognition, and professional growth. Lead efforts that strengthen trust, belonging, and a shared commitment to public service.Leadership Partner: Advise executives, elected officials, and department heads on workforce planning, employee relations, performance management, and organizational development.Benefits Strategy and Stewardship: Lead the design, selection, and management of employee benefits programs, including health, wellness, and retirement plans. Partner with the Benefits Committee to evaluate offerings, monitor costs, and ensure competitive, sustainable, and employee-centered solutions.Operational Excellence: Oversee core HR functions including benefits, compensation, classification, compliance, and HRIS, ensuring seamless service and compliance with all employment laws.Fiscal Stewardship: Develop and manage HR budgets, employee benefits costs, and position control to balance fiscal responsibility with competitive, people-centered programs.Workforce Development: Expand learning and development opportunities, onboarding programs, and leadership training to equip employees and managers with tools for success.Employee Services and Safety: Oversee ADA coordination, workers' compensation, wellness programs, and employee assistance initiatives.Communications and Transparency: Drive clear, timely, and engaging communication about HR initiatives and policies. Serve as a back-up to the Public Information Officer when needed.Innovation: Continuously research, evaluate, and implement best practices in public sector HR to ensure Calhoun County remains a progressive, attractive, and equitable workplace.Other duties as assigned.Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in business administration, Public Administration, Human Resources, or related field; Master's degree preferred.Minimum of six years of progressive HR and/or labor relations experience required; public sector experience preferred.Experience managing union relationship; lead labor negotiations experience preferred.Broad HR expertise across talent management, organizational design, compliance, compensation, and employee relations.Ability to lead with influence, integrity, and vision.Oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills including the ability to inspire, present complex information with clarity, and build trust across audiences.Ability to balance strategic leadership with day-to-day operational oversight.A valid driver's license and an acceptable driving record is required.Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook) and ability to learn new software programs.Ability to work effectively with individuals and groups from a variety of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies.A valid driver's license and an acceptable driving record is required.Supervisory Responsibilities: This position provides direct supervision including hiring, discipline, training/development, and termination of up to 5-9 employeesWorking Conditions: Hybrid Work Classification: Hybrid Eligible Flexibility Classification: Flexible Schedule Eligible Primarily office-based with occasional travel to County sites and meetings. Extended or non-traditional hours may be required for negotiations, emergencies, or executive responsibilities. Must be able to handle multiple priorities, deadlines, and sensitive matters with discretion and professionalism.