Director Human Resources

Summary of Job Responsibilities

The Human Resources Director leads the execution and operational delivery of HR strategy, ensuring effective, compliant, and high-quality HR programs that support organizational performance, employee engagement and an inclusive culture

This role partners closely with the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) to translate enterprise strategy into execution, with accountability for the full scope of HR service delivery across PERA.

IDEAL CANDIDATE

The ideal candidate is a highly collaborative HR leader who partners closely with the CHRO to drive organizational priorities through exceptional execution, sound judgment, and strong relationships. This individual is equally comfortable developing strategy, leading a team, and personally engaging in the details necessary to deliver high-quality HR services and outcomes.

As a trusted advisor to leaders and a valued resource for employees, they bring credibility, responsiveness, and a solutions-oriented mindset to every interaction. They lead through both direction and execution, balancing leadership of the HR team with hands-on involvement in key initiatives, complex employee matters, and organizational priorities. The successful candidate combines operational excellence, attention to detail, and business acumen with a genuine commitment to employee engagement, inclusion, leadership effectiveness, and a high-performing culture. They can effectively manage multiple priorities, navigate change, and translate organizational strategy into meaningful, measurable results.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Employees are held accountable for all duties of the job. Individuals must be able to perform these duties with or without reasonable accommodations.

HR Program Delivery & Execution

• Leads the implementation and delivery of HR programs and operations across the full employee lifecycle, including talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation, benefits, learning and development, compliance, and HR systems

• Ensures programs are executed in alignment with enterprise HR strategy, organizational priorities, and desired business outcomes

• Maintains accountability for consistent, effective, and compliant HR processes and outcomes

• Engages in complex or high-impact HR matters to ensure successful resolution

Leadership, Business Partnership & Culture

• Leads, develops, and aligns HR team members to deliver on organizational and HR priorities

• Operates as a working leader, balancing team leadership with direct involvement in key initiatives

• Serves as a trusted advisor to leaders on employee relations, workforce planning, and organizational effectiveness

• Partners with leaders and the CHRO to strengthen employee engagement, inclusion, and leadership capability

• Promotes and reinforces a high-performing, inclusive, and values-driven culture through HR programs, leadership practices, and team effectiveness

HR Technology, Data, and Continuous Improvement

• Oversees HR systems, processes, and data integrity to ensure operational effectiveness

• Leverages data, analytics, and emerging technologies to support decision-making and improve efficiency

• Monitors key HR metrics, including engagement and workforce trends, to inform continuous improvement

Compliance and Risk

• Ensures compliance with employment laws, regulations, and internal policies

• Leads or supports high-risk employee relations matters and investigations, in partnership with Legal

• Identifies and mitigates HR-related risks

• Partners closely with the Change Management Office to support the planning and delivery of organizational and HR change initiatives

Financial & Operational Oversight

• Manages HR budgets, resources, and vendor relationships to ensure effective and efficient service delivery

• Aligns operational priorities and resource allocation with HR and organizational priorities

• Performs other duties as assigned

Job Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or related field; 10+ years of progressive HR experience or equivalent combination of education and experience. Master’s degree preferred

• Active HR certifications (e.g., SPHR, SHRM-SCP)

• Demonstrated experience leading HR operations and high-performing teams in a dynamic environment

• Strong knowledge of employment law, regulatory compliance, and HR best practices

• Proven ability to translate strategy into execution, driving results across HR functions and programs

• Strong leadership, coaching, and team development capabilities

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to use data and metrics to inform decisions and improve performance

• Excellent communication and stakeholder partnership skills, with the ability to influence and advise leaders effectively

• Ability to manage multiple priorities, adapt to changing business needs, and deliver results in a fast-paced environment

• Experience facilitating training, leading cross-functional initiatives, and directly delivering HR programs preferred

Working Conditions

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Standard office environment with frequent telephone communication, computer operation, and other office productivity machinery, such as a copy and printer machine. 

• Occasional moving and positioning supplies in excess of 20 pounds

• All employees are expected to present themselves in a professional manner in alignment with the financial services industry

• Ability to sit for prolonged periods of time

• Ability to operate standard PC equipment

• Ability to manage frequent deadlines and tight schedules

Hybrid Work Option

• Opportunity to work from home up to two days per week. Eligibility dependent upon factors detailed in PERA's Work from Home Policy.

Interested Candidates:
Complete the employment application online at https://www.copera.org/careers. Please have copies of your resume and cover letter available to upload. Please review the following questions. You will be asked for a response to these as part of your application:

1. How many years of HR experience do you have?

2. How many years of leadership experience do you have?

3. Provide a brief summary of your HR leadership experience, including the size of the workforce supported, industries you have worked in, and teams you have led.

4. How do you measure your own success?

Job Description Disclaimer

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of an employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned with or without notice.

Unfortunately, at this time, PERA cannot consider candidates that require sponsorship (now or in the future), or are located outside of the US.

All Colorado PERA employees are subject to PERA’s Ethics Policy and some employees are subject to the Personal Trading Policy. These policies include restrictions on outside business activities and employment and have certain requirements on personal trading.  You may request copies of these policies from PERA’s talent acquisition team and any questions can be answered by PERA’s Investment Administration team.

Why Work at PERA

Colorado PERA offers more than a traditional pension career. We are a mission-driven organization with a growing focus on technology and modernization. Employees have the opportunity to do meaningful work with a real impact on over 700,000 members. From enhancing digital tools and member experiences to supporting major enterprise initiatives, employees are part of meaningful, future-focused work that blends public service with innovation. We take pride in our inclusive culture, career development opportunities, and our consistent recognition as a Top Workplace based on employee feedback. PERA is a place to connect, contribute, and be part of something bigger.

A Culture That Cares

At PERA, leveraging employee strengths and supporting strong engagement are the foundations of our culture. Employees are encouraged to grow through development opportunities and internal career movement, while also being part of an organization where people feel respected, informed, and included. Collaboration is encouraged across teams, allowing employees to learn from one another and contribute in ways that maximize their unique skills. We strive to foster an environment where employees can do their best work and feel supported by the people around them

An Employer that Invests in You

PERA invests in our employees in ways that matter; from comprehensive benefits and generous paid time-off to thoughtful everyday amenities that enhance the office experience. Employees are encouraged to continue learning through training, mentoring, and development at every stage of their careers. We champion a workplace where people feel valued, inspired, and equipped to grow.

Join Us
If you’re energized by meaningful work, motivated by an organization that evolves with a changing world and looking for an employer that invests in you, then consider joining PERA’s team. Learn more about careers at PERA at copera.org/careers.

Position Title: Director of Human Resources
Division: Human Resources
Reports to: Chief Human Resources Officer
Job Status: Full Time / Exempt
Salary: $175,000.00 to $205,000.00 Annual, Commensurate with experience
Posting Dates: 07/17/2026 to 07/29/2026