Human Resources Manager (Hybrid in Syracuse, NY)

Empower FCU•Syracuse, NY

15d•$98,686 - $148,028•Hybrid

About The Position

As a key member of the People & Culture team, the Human Resources Manager champions employee experience and organizational culture. This role goes beyond policies, it is about creating a workplace where people feel valued, supported, and empowered to be their best self. The HR Manager builds trust, fosters belonging, and partners with leaders and employees to strengthen engagement, resolve challenges with honesty and empathy, and drive initiatives that enhance well-being and growth. Rooted in the credit union philosophy of 'people helping people,' this position calls for curiosity and a genuine commitment to understanding our business and the values that guide us. By aligning HR strategies with our mission, the HR Manager helps us deliver on our promise to positively impact members at every stage of life through affordable financial services. While ensuring compliance and operational excellence, the HR Manager leads with emotional intelligence, balancing business priorities with the human side of work. This includes guiding employee relations, coaching leaders, supporting talent development, and shaping programs that reflect our values of honesty, integrity, and fairness. Reporting to the VP of People & Culture, this role oversees a team of four: an HR Generalist, an Employee Relations Advisor, and two Senior Recruiters. The HR Manager provides coaching, guidance, and development to this team while fostering collaboration and alignment with organizational goals.

Requirements

5 to 8 years of progressive HR leadership experience, with a strong focus on Employee Relations, HR Business Partnership, Recruitment, and creating welcoming, high-performing cultures.
4+ years of people-leadership experience including mentoring and developing HR professionals across multiple disciplines.
Proven expertise in employment law and compliance, including FMLA, ADA, disability accommodations, HIPAA, and related regulations.
Hands-on experience managing leave administration with empathy and accuracy.
Proficiency in HRIS systems and leveraging data to inform people strategies (not just reporting).
Experience supporting multi-location organizations and navigating complex workforce needs is highly preferred.
Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Organizational Psychology, or a related field.
Equivalent industry-recognized certifications and relevant experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.
Brings exceptional emotional intelligence and approaches challenges with empathy, fairness, and confidence.
Builds authentic relationships and earns trust quickly across all levels of the organization.
Communicates with clarity and influence, able to coach leaders, resolve conflict, and inspire teams through both words and actions.
Thrives in collaboration, balancing business priorities with a genuine commitment to employee well-being and belonging.
Comfortable being a visible culture ambassador, modeling integrity and positivity in every interaction.
Leads with empathy and decisiveness, creating a workplace where employees feel supported, respected, and heard.
Skilled at navigating complexity and competing priorities without losing sight of the human experience.
Demonstrates sound judgment and discretion in sensitive matters, earning credibility as a trusted advisor.
Uses data and insights not just for reporting, but to shape strategies that elevate engagement and performance.
Drives initiatives that transform employee experience and strengthen organizational culture, rather than simply managing projects.
Champions belonging, ensuring unique voices are represented and valued in decision-making.
Resolves conflict with grace and fairness, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and trust-building.