Sr Manager, Talent Acquisition

Metra•Chicago, IL

About The Position

The Senior Manager, Talent Acquisition will play a critical role in attracting, selecting, and retaining top talent by overseeing the entire recruitment process within Metra, driving the development and implementation of effective recruitment strategies, managing a team of talent acquisition professionals, and ensuring compliance with law and policies. Metra is one of the largest and most complex commuter rail systems in North America, serving Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry Counties. The agency is linking communities in Northeastern Illinois by providing safe, reliable, and efficient commuter service. Metra's Human Resources Department is committed to attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse and talented workforce. We foster a culture of fairness, trust, and mutual respect by promoting employee engagement, wellness, and professional growth. Through equitable compensation, flexible benefits, and compliance with employment laws, we empower employees to thrive and contribute meaningfully to Metra's mission.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or in lieu of degree, four years of recruitment experience.
Seven years progressively responsible full lifecycle recruitment/talent acquisition experience.
Minimum of two years of supervisory experience.
Considerable knowledge of full lifecycle recruiting components, sourcing techniques, employer branding, candidate engagement strategies, and recruitment technology.
Considerable knowledge of federal and state laws regarding employment practices.
Considerable knowledge of industry trends, market dynamics, and emerging best practices in talent acquisition.
Good knowledge of key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics used to measure the effectiveness of recruitment efforts.
Knowledge of general personnel policies and practices.
Strong organizational and analytical skills.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Good collaborative, interpersonal, and persuasive skills to build consensus in support of decisions.
Proficiency in analyzing recruitment metrics and data to track performance, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.
Proficiency in applicant tracking systems (ATS), recruitment software, and other relevant tools for streamlining the recruitment process.
Proficient using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and computer applicant tracking systems.
Ability to lead and motivate a team, set clear goals, and provide guidance and support.
Ability to exercise discretion in dealing with confidential and sensitive information.
Ability to identify recruitment challenges and develop creative solutions to address them.
Ability to manage multiple recruitment projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
Must be willing to travel within and outside of Metra's 6-county region.
Must be available to work flexible hours in the early morning, late afternoon, evenings, or weekends.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement effective recruitment strategies aligned with the organization's goals and talent needs.
Lead, manage, and supervise a team of recruiters, coordinators, and other talent acquisition professionals, providing guidance, coaching, and performance feedback.
Oversee sourcing efforts to attract top talent through various channels such as job boards, social media, networking, and employee referrals.
Develop and ensure a structured and efficient process for screening candidates, conducting interviews, and selecting the best fit for the organization.
Track recruitment metrics and provide regular reports to senior management on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as time-to-fill, cost-per-hire, and quality-of-hire.
Collaborate with HR Business Partners, department managers, and marketing and communications teams to enhance the employer brand and attract and retain high-quality candidates.
Approve time off, coordinate staff schedules, fill vacancies as necessary, and ensure compliance with departmental and company policies and objectives.
Decide/implement staffing decisions, performance evaluations, and performance improvement, disciplinary, and/or termination procedures.
Make recommendations regarding hiring, performance evaluations, disciplinary and/or termination procedures.
Promote safe work practices and maintain and foster a safe work environment.
Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.