Human Resources Director

Purpose Statement

The Human Resources Director serves as the strategic leader for all HR functions within the Quapaw Nation tribal entity. This position ensures the alignment of human resources policies and practices with the tribe's values, goals, and cultural principles. The Director will provide leadership in employee relations, recruitment, talent development, compensation, and compliance with federal and tribal regulations, while also fostering an environment of respect, inclusion, and growth for all employees.

Essential Duties

1. Strategic Leadership
   • Lead the development and implementation of human resource strategies aligned with the Tribe’s mission, vision, and core values.
   • Advise senior leadership on HR-related issues, ensuring HR policies and practices align with the Tribe's cultural traditions and legal requirements.
   • Collaborate with the Tribal Council and senior leadership to ensure HR initiatives support both immediate and long-term organizational goals.
2. Employee Relations
   • Oversee employee relations matters, working to resolve conflicts, foster a positive work environment, and ensure alignment with the Tribe's values and customs.
   • Provide guidance to leadership on sensitive matters such as employee grievances, discipline, and terminations in accordance with both Tribal policies and applicable labor laws.
3. Talent Acquisition & Workforce Planning
   • Develop, implement, and manage recruitment strategies to attract top talent, ensuring diversity, equity, and inclusion, and considering the Tribe’s unique needs.
   • Partner with department heads to assess staffing needs, create workforce plans, and ensure alignment with operational and organizational goals.
4. Compensation and Benefits Management
   • Oversee the development and administration of competitive compensation structures, ensuring alignment with Tribal policies, market standards, and legal requirements.
   • Ensure the delivery of a comprehensive benefits program that meets the needs of employees and complies with applicable laws and regulations.
5. Training and Development
   • Develop and implement ongoing employee development programs, training sessions, and succession planning initiatives to enhance staff skills and leadership within the Tribe.
   • Support the Tribe’s mission to preserve cultural heritage by incorporating cultural learning into training and development activities.
6. Compliance and Reporting
   • Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and tribal laws, regulations, and policies, including labor and employment law, EEO, ADA, and other legal requirements.
   • Maintain and oversee HR data systems, ensuring accurate record-keeping and reporting, including metrics on HR functions such as turnover, retention, and employee engagement.
7. Employee Engagement and Organizational Culture
   • Foster a work environment that supports engagement, empowerment, and job satisfaction, encouraging open communication, and recognizing achievements.
   • Promote an inclusive, culturally respectful workplace that integrates traditional and contemporary values.
8. Budget and Resource Management
   • Develop and manage the HR department budget, ensuring efficient use of resources and adherence to fiscal guidelines.
   • Continuously assess HR processes to drive improvements in service delivery and operational effectiveness.
9. Leadership Development and Succession Planning
   • Design and implement leadership development programs to ensure there is a pipeline of future leaders within the Tribe.
   • Work with senior leaders to identify key talent and develop succession plans to ensure continuity in critical roles.
10. Community Relations
    • Serve as a liaison between the Tribe and external partners, maintaining relationships with local, state, and federal agencies, as well as other tribal organizations.
    • Represent the Tribe in various HR-related forums and work to build positive relationships with neighboring tribal entities.

Education Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Master’s degree in Human Resources, Public Administration, or related field is preferred.
• SHRM-SCP (Senior Certified Professional) or other relevant HR certifications are preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of tribal sovereignty and laws as they relate to employment practices and tribal governance.

Competencies

1. Drives Results
   Ability to deliver results through persistence and accountability, ensuring HR strategies effectively contribute to organizational success.
2. Strategic Mindset
   Able to see the big picture and understand the long-term goals of the Tribe while aligning HR strategies to achieve those goals.
3. Decision Quality
   Makes informed, sound decisions by combining knowledge, data, and experience to achieve the best possible outcomes.
4. Building Effective Teams
   Fosters teamwork and collaboration, building a cohesive, high-performing HR team that works together to meet the Tribe’s needs.
5. Organizational Savvy
   Understands the Tribe’s internal dynamics and how to navigate them effectively to build strong relationships and foster organizational success.
6. Global & Cultural Effectiveness
   Demonstrates cultural sensitivity and understanding, ensuring HR practices are inclusive and respect both modern and traditional values.
7. Manages Complexity
   Handles complex situations with a calm, rational approach, navigating challenges and competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
8. Change Management
   Leads change initiatives within HR, supporting organizational transformation and ensuring smooth transitions while maintaining cultural integrity.
9. Talent Management
   Understands the importance of developing and retaining talent, ensuring the Tribe attracts, develops, and retains high-potential employees.
10. Influence
    Ability to influence leadership and others in the organization, advocating for HR priorities and strategies that align with organizational needs.