Our client is hiring for 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. Director of Human Resources Responsibilities: - 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 Director of Human Resources Requirements: - 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 matter - 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 The hourly pay rate for this role ranges from $75-80/hr. Our consultants are eligible to enroll in medical, dental and vision benefits. Apply today! Rachel Holmes Principal