Director of Human Resources

Position Overview

The Director of Human Resources is a key senior leader responsible for shaping people strategies that align with the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s mission. This leader collaborates closely with executive management to enhance organizational well-being, employee experiences, and leadership capabilities. The role focuses on establishing inclusive, trustworthy systems across talent acquisition, onboarding, development, total rewards, well-being, employee engagement, labor relations, and HR operations. Leading the HR department, the Director ensures that all policies and practices reinforce the Zoo's core values and support a strong culture, ultimately advancing its impact on wildlife conservation, guests, employees, and community stakeholders.

Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the strategy for attracting talent, ensuring recruitment and onboarding are engaging and standardized.
• Develop recruitment plans to meet evolving workforce and organizational objectives.
• Analyze recruitment and workforce metrics such as applicant flow, hiring, turnover, and promotions, sharing insights to inform decision-making.
• Oversee ongoing talent management programs including employee development and learning opportunities across all levels.
• Implement and manage training initiatives aligned with professional growth requirements, utilizing external resources as needed.
• Manage the performance appraisal process, ensuring adaptability and alignment with strategic goals.
• Advise managers on optimizing individual and team performance.
• Oversee the Zoo’s total rewards and employee well-being programs, promoting holistic health strategies and a culture of well-being.
• Select and manage employee benefit plans and vendor relationships to maintain competitive costs and offerings.
• Guide compensation strategy including pay equity, benchmarking, and adjustment recommendations.
• Foster a culture of employee engagement, inclusivity, and organizational excellence through targeted initiatives.
• Lead HR team in delivering strategic objectives with proactive and effective service.
• Serve as primary management representative in labor relations and collective bargaining processes, facilitating positive resolution of disputes.
• Conduct employment-related investigations regarding labor disputes, performance issues, discipline, harassment, violence, and discrimination complaints.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline.
• At least 10 years of progressive senior human resources management experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Certification in HR (e.g., SPHR or SHRM-SCP) preferred.
• Experience in labor relations is advantageous.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Comprehensive expertise in HR functions including staffing, compensation, benefits, organizational planning, and employee/labor relations.
• Strong emotional intelligence to manage conflicts, promote equity and inclusion, and foster talent development.
• Firm commitment to culturally inclusive workplace practices.
• Visionary leadership skills with ability to communicate and implement strategic concepts across all organizational levels.
• Excellent communication and analytical capabilities.
• Alignment with the Cincinnati Zoo’s core values and mission.
• Proficient in engaging diverse stakeholders such as staff, board members, unions, donors, and volunteers.
• In-depth knowledge of employment laws and regulations (ACA, FLSA, FMLA, EEO/AA, ADEA) with ability to guide compliance and best practices.
• Competency with Microsoft Office suite.

Working Conditions and Other Requirements

• Employment contingent on passing pre-employment screenings including drug and nicotine tests, TB test, and background check.
• Role involves regular physical activities including standing, walking, bending, lifting up to 25 pounds, and use of office equipment.
• Possibility of exposure to outdoor weather conditions.
• Valid driver’s license with insurable driving record required.

Benefits and Additional Information

This is a full-time, exempt position eligible for the Zoo’s comprehensive benefits package available to non-union employees starting the month after hire. Benefits include affordable medical, dental, and vision plans; free mental health counseling; 401(k) with employer match; flexible spending accounts; company-paid disability and life insurance; generous paid time off; and park discounts and free admission passes.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume as part of their application.