Director Human Resources

Sarah Cannon Research Institute•Nashville, TN

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

Provides strategic leadership and oversight of human resources functions across assigned business units, regions, and national lines of business, including research, business development, and clinical operations across multiple sites. Serves as a trusted advisor to senior and executive leadership, aligning HR strategy with business objectives to drive organizational effectiveness and performance. The Director, Human Resources is responsible for the strategic and operational coordination of all aspects of human resources management, including regulatory compliance, employee relations, compensation and salary administration, benefits support, recruitment and onboarding, workforce development, and workers’ compensation. This role ensures consistency, scalability, and alignment of HR practices across complex and evolving environments. Leads and develops HR team members while driving initiatives related to employee relations, workforce planning, organizational development, engagement, and change management. These responsibilities apply to both routine operations and periods of transformation, including migrations, mergers, acquisitions, developments, and divestitures, ensuring successful execution and minimal disruption to the business.

Requirements

Minimum Relevant Experience Required: 10+ years of progressive HR experience
5+ years in a senior HRBP or HR leadership role
Demonstrated experience managing complex employee relations issues independently
Experience supporting multi-site or matrixed organizations
Experience leading HR teams
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence at all levels of the organization
Customer-focused mindset, consistently assessing and meeting the needs of internal stakeholders while balancing business objectives
Advanced conflict resolution and employee relations investigation skills
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to leverage data for decision-making
Ability to lead presentations and facilitate discussions with leadership and teams
Strong leadership and team development capabilities
Ability to navigate complex and sensitive situations with sound judgment and professionalism
Ability to balance business needs with employee experience and risk management
Ability to lead through ambiguity and drive organizational change
Ability to build trust and credibility with leaders and colleagues at all levels
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment
Extensive knowledge of organizational policies, procedures, and systems, with the ability to interpret and apply them consistently and effectively
Knowledge of federal, state, and local employment laws and regulatory requirements
Deep understanding of human behavior, organizational development, and employee relations principles to effectively manage workplace dynamics and foster a healthy work environment
Broad knowledge of HR disciplines including compensation, benefits, talent management, workforce planning, and HR systems

Nice To Haves

Healthcare or clinical research experience preferred

Responsibilities

Serves as a primary HR advisor to senior and executive leadership, aligning HR strategy with business objectives and driving organizational performance
Develops, implements, and oversees HR policies, programs, and procedures, ensuring alignment with organizational strategy and compliance with all regulatory requirements
Maintains a deep understanding of business operations, strategies, and industry trends to proactively guide workforce decisions and organizational direction
Leads and oversees all aspects of employee relations, including complex investigations, performance management, disciplinary actions, terminations, and conflict resolution; serves as final escalation point for high-risk issues
Provides guidance and coaching to leaders and HR staff on employee relations matters, ensuring consistency, fairness, and risk mitigation
Drives workforce planning, talent development, and succession planning in partnership with leadership to meet current and future business needs
Oversees and ensures an effective and compliant recruitment and onboarding strategy in partnership with Talent Acquisition
Leads compensation strategy execution in partnership with Total Rewards, ensuring fair, equitable, and market-competitive pay practices; ensures compliance with all wage and hour regulations
Oversees benefits administration in coordination with corporate and third-party partners, including communication, enrollment, and issue resolution
Oversees Workers’ Compensation and leave management processes, ensuring effective case management and regulatory compliance
Utilizes data and metrics to identify trends, inform strategy, and improve HR service delivery and organizational outcomes
Leads performance management processes, including design, implementation, and continuous improvement of evaluation systems
Drives employee engagement and retention initiatives, including survey deployment, action planning, and culture-building efforts
Designs and delivers or oversees leadership training and development programs focused on performance management, compliance, and building a healthy work environment
Supports and leads organizational change efforts, including restructuring, growth initiatives, mergers, acquisitions, and other business transformations
Facilitates HR operating rhythms and service delivery models to ensure effective partnership with business leaders and strong client satisfaction
Provides input into and oversees HR-related budget considerations, including workforce planning and payroll expense management
Leads, coaches, and develops HR team members, ensuring strong performance, accountability, and professional growth
Ensures accurate and compliant HR records, processes, and transactions across the HR function
Promotes a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement within the HR team and across the organization
Other duties as assigned
Practices and adheres to the Code of Conduct philosophy and Mission and Value Statement
Completes all required training by assigned due dates