Position Summary
The HR Director is a senior executive role responsible for leading the Free Library of Philadelphia’s (FLP) human resources strategy and overseeing a comprehensive range of HR functions. These include DEI initiatives, employee relations, payroll, labor relations, training and development, safety, risk management, and more. The HR Director will ensure the Library fosters an inclusive and supportive workplace while remaining compliant with applicable laws and regulations, all while advancing the Free Library’s mission and vision.
As a key member of the executive leadership team, the HR Director will report directly to the First Deputy Director. This role includes active participation and presentations at meetings with the Free Library’s Board of Trustees, the quarterly public hearings held by the Board of Trustees (open to the public), and the Free Library Foundation Board of Directors. The HR Director will provide strategic insights and guidance on matters related to staffing, employee relations, DEI, and organizational policies.
Additionally, the HR Director will serve as the point of contact to ensure compliance for Free Library Foundation employees, ensuring consistency in personnel expectations. This includes overseeing that Foundation employees operate within the Library’s physical and digital infrastructure, in alignment with Free Library policies and practices.
Essential Functions
Leadership in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI):
o Lead the development and implementation of DEI strategies aligned with the Library’s mission.
o Ensure DEI principles are integrated across all HR practices and policies.
o Oversee the assessment and implementation of the DEI plan.
Human Resources Oversight:
o Manage recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and employee engagement.
o Ensure HR policies comply with laws and promote fairness and equity.
o Support managers in staffing and HR operations.
Payroll and Compensation:
o Oversee accurate payroll processing and competitive compensation strategies to support recruitment and retention.
Employee Relations:
o Address employee concerns and mediate conflict to maintain a positive workplace culture.
o Investigate and resolve workplace conduct violations.
Labor Management and Relations:
o Ensure compliance with collective bargaining agreements and engage with union representatives to maintain positive labor relations.
Training and Development:
o Develop and implement training programs to enhance staff skills and support professional growth.
o Collaborate on DEI-focused training initiatives.
Safety and Risk Management:
o Oversee workplace safety compliance, manage injury claims, and ensure timely response to safety issues.
o Provide safety-related training and address concerns promptly.
EEOC Compliance:
o Ensure compliance with EEOC regulations and manage claims related to workplace discrimination.
Policy Development:
o Lead policy creation and revisions to ensure legal compliance and alignment with the Library’s mission, focusing on DEI and staff retention.
Metrics and Reporting:
o Track and report on DEI and HR metrics to evaluate program effectiveness and progress.
Community Engagement:
o Promote DEI goals through advisory committees and employee resource groups, fostering an inclusive culture.
Board Engagement:
o Participate in Board meetings and quarterly public hearings, providing strategic insights on staffing, employee relations, DEI, and policy matters.
o Prepare and present HR-related updates for Board discussions.
Foundation Employee Compliance:
o Ensure compliance for Free Library Foundation employees, aligning personnel practices with Library policies and standards.
o Oversee the integration of Foundation employees into the Library’s infrastructure and practices.
Other Duties:
o Perform additional tasks as assigned.Competencies, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Strategic Leadership & Knowledge: Proven ability to develop and implement HR and DEI strategies, aligning initiatives with organizational goals and driving systemic change.
Anti-Racist Practices & DEI Expertise: Deep understanding of anti-racist practices, DEI principles, and the ability to integrate these strategies into organizational culture and policy.
Legal Acumen & Compliance: Expertise in federal, state, and local equal employment opportunity laws, ensuring compliance across all HR functions and with various stakeholders, including Foundation employees.
Board & Stakeholder Engagement: Experience working with executive leadership and Boards (including Trustees and Foundation), providing strategic insights on staffing, employee relations, DEI, and organizational policies.
Communication & Presentation: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly present HR-related matters to Board members, leadership, and staff, as well as resolve conflicts effectively.
Collaboration & Consensus Building: Strong ability to collaborate across departments, build consensus among diverse stakeholders, and guide teams toward shared goals.
Emotional Intelligence & Interpersonal Skills: High emotional intelligence and strong interpersonal skills to engage effectively with employees at all levels and external partners.
Conflict Resolution & Employee Relations: Expertise in addressing sensitive employee relations issues, conducting investigations, and fostering a respectful workplace.
Analytical & Data-Driven Decision-Making: Strong analytical skills to evaluate complex issues and data, making informed decisions that support HR and DEI goals.
Program Development & Implementation: Ability to design, implement, and refine HR programs and policies that enhance organizational effectiveness and drive DEI initiatives.
Influential Leadership: Skilled in influencing leadership behaviors and fostering a culture of collaboration and inclusion.
Technical Proficiency: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and relevant HR software tools for managing HR functions, reporting, and data analysis.
Physical & Environmental Adaptability: Ability to perform necessary physical duties and adapt to the environmental conditions required for success in this role.
