Our client is hiring a Director of Human Resources for a 12-month contract based in Chicago. The Director of Human Resources will provide strategic and operational HR leadership during a transitional period for a prominent Chicago nonprofit organization. This role will oversee a team of HR professionals while serving as a trusted advisor and executor for HR tasks across the organization.

The Director of Human Resources will ensure continuity of HR operations, strengthen team capability, and provide proactive, solutions-oriented leadership in a dynamic and evolving environment.

This is a high-impact leadership role requiring strong people management skills, executive presence, and the ability to balance strategic oversight with day-to-day execution.

What’s the job?

• Provide direction and oversight to the HR team across assigned business units
• Manage, coach, and develop team members, including mentoring junior HR staff
• Act as HR Business Partner to executive leaders, offering strategic counsel and practical solutions
• Provide forward-looking workforce planning, forecasting potential challenges and mitigating risks
• Drive proactive, solutions-focused HR initiatives aligned with university objectives
• Effectively manage shifting priorities in a fast-paced academic environment
• Maintain strong executive presence and credibility with senior leadership
• Ensure smooth HR operations and service delivery across academic units
• Support organizational design and workforce planning initiatives
• Oversee employee relations, performance management, and compliance matters
• Partner with leadership on talent acquisition, succession planning, and talent development
• Foster a collaborative, high-performing HR team
• Align HR practices with university policies and best practices in higher education

What’s needed?

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field
• 10+ years of progressive HR leadership experience in complex, multi-stakeholder environments
• Extensive employee relations experience required, with a demonstrated ability to navigate complex and sensitive employee matters
• Exposure across all major HR functions, including employee relations, leadership development, talent acquisition, and compliance
• Strategic thinker with strong execution capability
• Action-oriented and adaptable in evolving environments
• Solutions-focused mindset with strong problem-solving skills
• Ability to build credibility with executive leaders and faculty stakeholders
• Familiarity with broad HR best practices
• Strong interpersonal, coaching, and communication skills

Key Details

• Compensation: $75–$80/hour
• Location: Chicago, IL
• Benefits: Consultants are eligible to enroll in benefits, including medical, dental, and vision
• Employment Type: Contract (12 months)

Apply today!

Rachel Holmes
Principal

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