Human Resources Business Partner

About the Role

PeoplesBank is seeking a dynamic HR Business Partner to join our team in a hybrid role based out of our Executive Offices in Holyoke, MA and our Southbridge, MA office. In this collaborative, hands-on position, you’ll champion our culture, support the full HR lifecycle, and lead initiatives that shape the employee experience—from recruitment and performance management to engagement and compliance.

Responsibilities

• Support the full HR lifecycle, including onboarding, benefits administration, performance management, and offboarding processes.
• Execute and promote PeoplesBank employee programs related to compensation, training, and development.
• Participate in full-cycle recruitment efforts: source, interview, and hire qualified candidates in collaboration with department managers.
• Develop and update job descriptions based on evolving departmental needs and role requirements.
• Respond to employment-related inquiries from applicants, employees, and supervisors, escalating complex issues as needed.
• Interpret and communicate HR policies, procedures, and employment laws to ensure organizational compliance.
• Investigate and resolve employee relations matters, including complaints, harassment allegations, and performance concerns.
• Provide coaching and performance management support to managers, including guidance on disciplinary actions and career development.
• Foster a positive work environment by enhancing employee relations, morale, and retention through strategic HR initiatives.
• Drive employee engagement by planning and executing internal events and recommending engagement tools and strategies.
• Administer HR programs across talent management, compensation, employee engagement, and workplace safety.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws; recommend and implement best practices.
• Stay current on HR trends, regulatory changes, and emerging technologies to inform HR strategy and operations.
• Lead special projects focused on HR technology, process improvement, and policy development.
• Complete annual compliance training and uphold bank-wide service standards and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with HR team members to maintain legal compliance and enforce company policies consistently.
• May supervise staff as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of related experience.

Skills

• Highly developed written and verbal communication skills.
• Exposure to and familiarity with HR best practices and demonstrated ability to apply that knowledge in the workplace.
• Ability to work independently and execute sound judgment in making decisions.
• Strong interpersonal, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Self-directed and a quick learner with the ability to achieve results while working under the pressures of shifting priorities in a dynamic and agile environment.

Technical Skills

• High level of proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Demonstrated ability to navigate and leverage HRIS and talent and learning management systems.
• Experience with ADP and Cornerstone highly desired.

Certifications

PHR or SHRM-CP certification a plus.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

The working conditions and physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.