WCMHS is seeking a skilled, strategic, and collaborative Senior Director of Human Resources to lead with data-informed decisions woven into strong interpersonal relationships. This role helps shape organizational strategy as a member of the senior management team. Through oversight of workforce planning and development, employee relations, compensation and benefits, staff training, compliance, and risk management strategies, this senior leader ensures that HR practices and policies comply with legal requirements, reflect best practices, and align with the agency’s mission, values, and goals.
The Senior Director of Human Resources oversees the HR team and functions and provides direct supervision to designated HR management staff. They work closely with leadership across the agency to support strategy related to staffing, organizational structure, performance management, employee engagement, employee relations, and workforce development.
Why This Role is an Exciting Opportunity
This is a transformational opportunity for the next Senior Director of Human Resources to make a lasting impact at WCMHS and across Vermont. In this role, you will:
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Build from the ground up by strengthening systems and embedding best-in-class HR practices.
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Shape organizational strategy by working closely with the senior leadership team in innovative and collaborative ways.
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Lead a broad and meaningful HR portfolio spanning workforce development, employee relations, benefits, compensation, compliance, safety, and staff development.
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Partner statewide by collaborating with peer agencies and external groups to support shared workforce and HR initiatives.
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Influence organizational and workforce policy through leadership participation, committee work, and board-level reporting.
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Drive long-term change by ensuring policies, programs, and workforce development efforts are sustainable and mission-aligned.
This is not only a leadership position within WCMHS—it is a chance to strengthen the agency’s people systems, support a high-performing and inclusive workplace, and contribute to the broader human services community in Vermont.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate for the Senior Director of Human Resources at WCMHS is a thoughtful and hands-on leader with deep expertise in human resources operations, strong knowledge of employment and benefits law, and a demonstrated commitment to inclusion, diversity, and organizational excellence.
Education and experience requirements include:
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Graduate degree in a relevant discipline, such as business or legal studies; or
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A combination of education and relevant work experience that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the role with a high level of competence.
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Extensive experience leading payroll and benefits administration.
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Significant experience managing core HR functions and related administrative operations.
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Demonstrated success leading systems and processes change projects.
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Demonstrated leadership and staff supervision experience.
Knowledge, skills, and competencies include:
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Comprehensive knowledge of core HR functions, HR compliance, payroll, and benefits administration.
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Significant knowledge of employment and labor laws.
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Strong professional writing, research, and analytical skills.
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Ability to evaluate qualitative and quantitative data and use it to inform strategic and operational decisions.
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Demonstrated leadership and management skills, including the ability to build, support, and lead diverse and inclusive teams.
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Commitment to advancing inclusion and diversity in the workforce.
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Ability to manage complex projects, balance multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
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Ability to work as a collaborative, hands-on leader and team member in a dynamic environment.
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Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to provide clear, constructive feedback with empathy and respect.
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Proficiency with Microsoft Office products and HR/payroll software.
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Understanding of and commitment to advancing the WCMHS mission.
Compensation & Benefits
This full-time position offers an annualized salary range of $130,000 to $150,000 and comprehensive benefits, including paid time off; employer-sponsored health, dental, life, and disability insurances; and a 403(b) retirement plan with a generous employer match. WCMHS also offers educational benefits, including tuition reimbursement and student loan repayment.
About the Agency
For more than 50 years, Washington County Mental Health Services (WCMHS) has served the Washington County community and the Orange County towns of Orange, Washington, and Williamstown. WCMHS provides education, support, and treatment to individuals and families living with mental health challenges, substance use issues, and developmental and intellectual disabilities. Providing accessible, high-quality services in the community, schools, and health care settings, we work toward positive outcomes for wellness with collaborative, inclusive, and compassionate care. Washington County Mental Health Services is “Where Hope and Support Come Together.”
