Chief Human Resources Officer

JOB TITLE: CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES/ORG. DEV. OFFICER

DEPARTMENT: Administration

SUPERVISOR: Chief Executive Officer

FLSA/TYPE: Exempt, full-time

SUPERVISES: Recruiter 

JOB SUMMARY:

The Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) serves on-site as a key member of the executive leadership team and provides strategic direction and oversight of all aspects of Human Resources. This role is responsible for aligning HR initiatives with Willapa Behavioral Health & Wellness’ mission and goals, ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations, and fostering a workplace environment that supports staff well-being, development, and retention.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

Follow Willapa Behavioral Health & Wellness Service Excellence Standards / Code of Ethics and Policies and Procedures.

1. Adhere to rules of confidentiality.
2. Respect and accommodate a diverse population. 
3. Maintain appropriate boundaries with clients and staff.
4. Work on-site as necessary or remotely using telehealth technology as determined by management.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive HR strategy aligned with organizational goals and behavioral health best practices.
• Monitor, coordinate, and communicate and proactively work to address HR-related impacts of the external environment, including laws impacting funding, licensing, wage & hour, and external labor relations, in coordination with WBHW legal counsel. 
• Monitors and ensures the organization’s compliance with federal, state, local employment laws and regulations, healthcare/accreditation standards (e.g., HIPAA, CARF), and recommended best practices; reviews and modifies policies and practices to maintain compliance.
• Oversees the administration of human resource programs, including, but not limited to, compensation, benefits, and leave; disciplinary matters; disputes and investigations; performance and talent management; productivity, recognition, and morale; occupational health and safety; and training and development
• Lead workforce planning, talent acquisition, and retention strategies to support the mission of having an appropriate staffing level, with qualified, mission-driven professionals.
• Collaborates closely with the Compliance Director to champion a culture of ethics, integrity, and accountability across all HR practices.
• Partners with the Quality Assurance program to integrate workforce data, training outcomes, and employee feedback into continuous improvement efforts that align with quality standards, performance metrics, and client-centered care goals.
• Manage, maintain, and keep current HR related information for all audits, including CARF, Department of Health, grants, etc.
• Drive initiatives in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB), creating a safe and culturally competent work environment.
• Assist in identifying and supporting employee communications via Staff Newsletter or other types of communications.  
• Coordinate with subject experts to ensure training and development programs are identified by role, utilizing programs such as the Relias Training Platform in services and certification programs, determined by the regulatory environment and best practices.  
• Implement systems and strategies to measure and support employee engagement.
• Identify and facilitate professional development of the Leadership Team, coaching support for interviewing and orientation department-based skills, performance management, addressing productivity and employee relations issues. 
• Manage performance management frameworks, including annual reviews, coaching, and leadership development.
• Coordinate Safety Team with Safety Manager, leading employee safety, overseeing workers’ compensation, OSHA reporting, in coordination with building and client safety.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to the CEO and executive team on organizational structure, culture, and change management.
• Communicate and support staff wellness initiatives. 

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Organizational Development, or related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• HR certification (e.g., SHRM-SCP, SPHR) strongly preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of progressive HR leadership experience.
• Experience in behavioral health, healthcare, or the human services setting is strongly preferred.
• Deep knowledge of labor law, compliance regulations, and HR best practices in healthcare settings.
• Proven success in leading organizational change, DEIB initiatives, and talent strategy.
• Exceptional interpersonal, leadership, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated computer proficiency for ATS, HRIS programs, etc.
• Maintain a valid driver’s license, personal automobile liability insurance, and a driving record permitting coverage under company’s automobile liability policy if necessary.
• Able to drive in daylight, darkness, and typical Pacific Northwest weather conditions.
• Meet the current Washington health care vaccination requirements for health care workers.
• Meet the requirements of the agency’s drug-free workplace policies.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience in non-profit, health care environment.

SALARY:

$62,000 - $73,000 based on experience.