Head of People & Culture

About Bright Star Community Outreach

Bright Star Community Outreach is a dedicated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Chicago's Bronzeville community with over sixteen years of impact. Under the guidance of founder and CEO Pastor Chris Harris, Sr., the organization seeks to revitalize vulnerable neighborhoods through targeted community development programs addressing violence, economic opportunities, mental health, affordable housing, and education.

Position Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and empathetic Head of People & Culture to lead recruitment, culture building, talent growth, and HR operations. This full-time role is based onsite at 4444 S. Evans, Chicago, IL 60653, requiring hands-on leadership and collaboration with the organization’s leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Enhance recruitment strategies to attract diverse, skilled candidates across all levels.
• Create and implement engaging recruitment branding and communications.
• Develop systems to track candidates and ensure seamless onboarding experiences.
• Shape and promote organizational culture and lead diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives to foster an equitable workplace.
• Design and manage talent development programs including performance evaluations, coaching, and succession planning.
• Oversee all HR functions such as employee relations, payroll, benefits administration, compliance with labor laws, and policy enforcement.
• Support supervisors with training and policy application to ensure consistency and legal compliance.
• Partner with finance for monthly payroll reviews and regularly engage in supervisory meetings for performance management.
• Lead operational improvements for benefits open enrollment and related employee support activities.
• Act as an internal consultant for conflict resolution and maintain an inclusive, ethical work environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field.
• Five to seven years progressive HR management experience with at least three years in a supervisory role.
• Experience with HRIS and payroll systems; familiarity with Paychex and Paylocity is a plus.
• Proven skills in change management and organizational transformation.
• Strong background in coaching employees and guiding complex employee relations consistent with organizational values and labor laws.
• Experience with HR best practices in recruitment, benefits, payroll, employee relations, and policy development, ideally in the nonprofit sector.

Skills and Attributes

• Skilled communicator with ability to nurture talent and foster constructive workplace cultures.
• High integrity with discreet handling of sensitive information.
• Collaborative mindset focused on stakeholder engagement and innovative solutions.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to compliance and ethical standards.
• Experienced in leading and managing organizational change effectively.

Working Conditions

• Combination of office work and community engagement activities requiring frequent local travel.
• Occasional evening and weekend commitments to support programs and community events.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks efficiently within a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) options.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Competitive salary range of $90,000 to $100,000 per year.
• Life and disability insurance coverage.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunities to attend industry conferences and workshops.
• Company-sponsored social events and retreats.
• Volunteer and community engagement days.