Director, Human Resources

Position Overview

The City of Tacoma Human Resources (HR) Director provides strategic leadership and oversight for all HR programs, policies, and services – including those for Tacoma Public Utilities – to drive organizational success. This role promotes a high‐performance, customer‐focused culture; builds trust; and strengthens relationships with internal and external partners. The Director is a trusted advisor to executive leadership, ensuring HR aligns with the City’s mission while fostering innovation, compliance, and diversity.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and lead the implementation of innovative HR strategies, structures, and processes aligned with the City’s mission and goals.
• Build strong, transparent relationships with key stakeholders including City management, department heads, and external partners.
• Collaborate with the City Manager, TPU Director, and senior leaders to assess and address organizational needs.
• Establish and maintain effective, customer-focused working relationships across diverse groups.
• Cultivate trust, accountability, and a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Oversee the development and administration of budgets, policies, projects, and programs to deliver high-quality HR services.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations as well as applicable HR-related rules and policies.
• Lead and communicate consistent HR processes including hiring, employee relations, compensation, and benefits.
• Utilize workforce analytics for data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement of HR policies.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a directly related field.
• At least 12 years of progressively responsible human resources experience, including supervisory and managerial roles.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a closely related field.
• Five or more years of public sector experience.
• Prior experience as an HR Director or Assistant Director.
• A blend of professional experience and academic preparation that demonstrates a strong leadership track record.

Benefits & Perks

• Compensation: $182,894.00 - $257,524.80 annually.
• Benefits: Attractive employee benefits package including retirement, medical, dental, vision, and a generous PTO package.
• Relocation assistance may be available for a successful out-of-area candidate.