Dir. of People & Culture

Creative Discovery Museum•Chattanooga, TN

5d•$60,000 - $70,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Director of People & Culture leads Creative Discovery Museum’s efforts to support and sustain a workplace where all employees are valued, supported, and inspired to deliver exceptional experiences for every visitor. This role provides strategic leadership and daily support in all areas of people management, including recruitment, onboarding, professional development, training, performance management, employee relations, and compliance. As a member of CDM’s leadership team, the Director ensures that the Museum’s internal culture reflects the same values that define its engagement with the community: belonging, potential, respect, relationships, and exceptional service. This role will focus on empowering staff, supporting managers, and strengthening CDM’s position as one of Chattanooga’s most inspiring places to work.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field required
Minimum 5–7 years of progressive HR experience, including experience in employee relations and leadership, or strategic HR roles.
Proven ability to manage employee relations, performance management, and full-cycle recruitment.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a collaborative leadership style.
High emotional intelligence, integrity, and discretion when handling sensitive matters.
Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on problem solving.
Commitment to fostering a positive, inclusive, and mission-driven work environment.
Organized, proactive, and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree or HR certification (SHRM or HRCI) preferred.
Experience in nonprofit, education, or cultural institutions preferred.

Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Organizational Culture Serve as CDM’s lead human resources professional, shaping a culture that reflects the museum’s mission and values.
Partner with senior leadership to align HR strategies and practices with CDM’s strategic plan.
Develop and implement HR policies and systems that promote engagement, inclusion, and accountability.
Provide coaching and support to department heads to strengthen team management, communication, and performance.
Lead initiatives that enhance employee satisfaction, retention, and workplace well-being.
Talent Acquisition & Onboarding Oversee all aspects of recruitment and hiring, ensuring equitable and consistent practices across departments.
Collaborate with managers to identify staffing needs, create job descriptions, and coordinate interviews.
Design and manage onboarding and orientation programs that foster connection to CDM’s mission and values.
Coordinate with Aquarium IT to support technology access and equipment deployment for CDM employees.
Employee Development & Engagement Develop and coordinate training and professional development opportunities for all levels of staff.
Guide and coordinate the annual performance evaluation process, supporting managers in goal setting, coaching, and alignment with CDM values.
Facilitate employee recognition and engagement programs that celebrate teamwork and creativity.
Employee Relations, Compliance, and HR Operations Serve as a trusted and confidential resource for staff and supervisors on HR policies and employee relations.
Provide guidance on disciplinary matters, performance improvement, and conflict resolution.
Oversee HR systems, records, and reporting to ensure accuracy and confidentiality.
Maintain compliance with all federal and state employment laws and museum policies.
Coordinate with the Tennessee Aquarium’s administrative services for payroll, benefits, and leave management.
Conduct exit interviews and identify opportunities for continuous improvement in employee experience.