Director of People Relations

Essential Functions

• Build and maintain a consistent, equitable approach to employee relations across all locations
• Establish clear standards for case management, documentation, and service delivery
• Foster a culture of collaboration, learning, and professional growth
• Establish and maintain employee relations metrics, dashboards, and reporting mechanisms to track trends, identify risks, and measure the effectiveness of employee relations programs and interventions
• Analyze employee relations data to uncover root causes, recommend proactive solutions, and inform leadership decision making
• Oversee and conduct sensitive, high-risk workplace investigations involving harassment, discrimination, retaliation, misconduct, and policy violations
• Partner with VP of HR and external counsel, as required
• Maintain case management systems and ensure high standards of documentation and confidentiality

HR Generalist Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day back-up support to leaders and employees across the full employee lifecycle, including onboarding, performance management, payroll, employee development, HRIS, and offboarding
• Partner with the HR team to support workforce planning, job design, and organizational development initiatives
• Guide managers through performance improvement plans, corrective actions, and coaching conversations
• Serve as a resource for employees seeking guidance on policies, benefits, and workplace concerns
• Assist with performance reviews, talent calibration, engagement surveys, and policy updates

Policies, Compliance & Risk Management

• Lead the development, interpretation, and communication of policies, procedures, and employee-facing guidelines
• Partner with legal, compliance, and VP of HR to ensure adherence to federal, state, and local employment laws
• Proactively monitor regulatory changes and recommend updates to policies and practices
• Identify organizational risks and recommend mitigation strategies to VP of HR

Manager Coaching & Capability Building

• Provide guidance and coaching to managers on performance management, conflict resolution, team dynamics, and policy interpretation
• Develop and deliver training programs that strengthen leadership capability in handling employee relations
• Promote a culture of accountability, transparency, and respectful communication

Culture, Engagement, & Organizational Health

• Collaborate with HR team to assess organizational climate and recommend strategies to improve engagement and retention
• Support initiatives that reinforce company culture, employee well-being and a positive work environment
• Use data and insights to identify systemic issues and drive continuous improvement

Additional Duties & Responsibilities

• All other duties as assigned.

Skills & Abilities

• Proven ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, prioritize among competing priorities, and meet deadlines
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to sit at workstation for prolonged periods of time, consistent with OSHA suggestions and requirements
• Ability to lift packages up to 10 pounds
• Ability to travel to multiple building locations on and off campus

Qualifications

• Education and Certifications: Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development, Business Administration, Psychology, or related field; preferred
• Experience Required: Minimum of 5 years of progressive HR experience, including significant employee relations and HR generalist responsibilities
• Strong knowledge of employment laws and HR best practices
• Proven ability to influence leaders, navigate ambiguity, and manage sensitive situations with confidentiality and discretion

Other Requirements

• Successfully complete background check suitability requirements
• Must have reliable transportation

Equal Opportunity Statement

Walker is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based upon an individual's race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability, veteran status, pregnancy, national guard or reserve unit obligations, participation in discrimination complaint-related activities, or membership in any category protected by federal or state law.