Director of Human Resources - Now Hiring

Job Title: Director of Human Resources (with Audit and Compliance Experience)
Location: Chicago
Job Type: Full-Time
Organization Type: Charter Network
Reports to: Chief Operating Officer / Executive Director

About Us
Our client is seeking a Director of HR. They believe that every student deserves a high-quality education supported by dedicated professionals in a thriving, inclusive environment. They are committed to fostering excellence in teaching, leadership, and service across our schools and departments. As they continue to grow and evolve, they are seeking an experienced and strategic Director of Human Resources to lead
the HR department, with a particular focus on audit readiness, compliance, and policy alignment.

Position Overview
The Director of Human Resources will oversee all aspects of HR operations-including talent management, employee relations, compliance, and benefits administration-while ensuring alignment with internal policies and external audit and regulatory requirements. This role is ideal for a seasoned HR leader with a strong background in education and experience managing or supporting HR audits.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the full scope of HR services, including hiring, onboarding, performance management, professional development, employee relations, compensation, and benefits.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal labor laws and education-specific regulations (e.g., credentialing, collective bargaining agreements, teacher evaluations).
• Oversee preparation and response to internal and external audits related to HR functions, documentation, and reporting.
• Collaborate with Finance and Legal teams to strengthen internal controls and minimize compliance risks.
• Update and implement HR policies and employee handbooks in accordance with regulatory changes and best practices.
• Maintain accurate HR records and ensure data integrity across HRIS and payroll systems.
• Serve as a strategic advisor to leadership on staffing models, workforce planning, retention, and employee engagement initiatives.
• Support a positive, equitable, and inclusive workplace culture aligned with the mission of education.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Education Administration, or related field (Master's preferred).
• 8+ years of progressive HR experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership or director-level role, ideally in a school system or education-related organization.
• Experience managing or supporting audits and familiarity with audit processes, internal controls, and compliance standards.
• Deep knowledge of employment law, education HR policies, and regulatory reporting requirements (e.g., EEOC, FMLA, FERPA, etc.).
• Strong interpersonal, analytical, and communication skills.
• Experience working with unions or collective bargaining agreements is highly desirable.