Director of Human Resources and Risk Management

City of Laguna Beach • Laguna Beach, CA

28d • Onsite

About The Position

The City is seeking an experienced and innovative human resources professional to serve as its next Director of Human Resources and Risk Management. Reporting directly to the City Manager, this executive-level position provides strategic leadership for the City's human resources and risk management functions while serving as a trusted advisor to the City Manager, City Council, and department directors. This position plays a critical role in shaping organizational culture, leading workforce initiatives, fostering positive employee relations, and ensuring the City remains an employer of choice.

Requirements

• Executive-level experience leading comprehensive human resources operations, preferably in a public sector environment.
• Strong knowledge of labor relations, collective bargaining, employment law, classification and compensation, benefits administration, and organizational development.
• Political acumen and the ability to build effective relationships with elected officials, executive leadership, employees, and community stakeholders.
• A collaborative, approachable leadership style that promotes accountability, transparency, and employee development.
• Excellent judgment and discretion when handling sensitive and confidential matters.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• The ability to balance strategic vision with operational execution while leading through change and competing priorities.
• A commitment to innovation, exceptional customer service, and fostering a positive organizational culture.
• Bachelor's degree in public administration, human resources management, or a related field.
• Eight or more years (extensive) of increasingly responsible experience in human resources, labor relations, and risk management, with at least four (4) in a supervisory or management capacity.
• Experience in public sector or local government personnel management is highly desirable.
• Due to the performance of some field duties, which may require the operation of a personal or City vehicle, a valid California Driver’s license and an acceptable driving record are required.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in a related field is desirable.
• Professional certifications in human resources (SHRM, PHR, or equivalent) are desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the City's human resources and risk management functions, aligning programs and services with the City's strategic priorities.
• Partner with the City Manager, City Council, and executive leadership on workforce planning, organizational development, and complex personnel matters.
• Oversee all aspects of human resources including employee and labor relations, benefits administration, classification and compensation, recruitment and selection, HRIS, and organizational development and training, and risk management.
• Lead labor negotiations, administer collective bargaining agreements, and cultivate productive relationships with employee associations.
• Direct key risk management functions, including workers' compensation, workplace safety initiatives, and the City's asset insurance program.
• Develop policies, programs, and initiatives that enhance employee engagement, operational excellence, and organizational effectiveness.
• Provide strategic guidance on employment law, policy interpretation, investigations, and employee relations.
• Present recommendations and reports to the City Council and represent the City with professionalism and integrity.

Benefits

• City paid health insurance for employees
• retirement plans
• paid time off
• opportunities for professional growth and development through training and education programs

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive