City of Bellevue, WA
Director of Human Resources and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
City of Bellevue, WA, Bellevue
Salary : $177,813.00 - $248,917.50 Annually
Location : Bellevue, WA
Job Type: Regular
Job Number:
Department: Human Resources
Division: HR_Director
Opening Date: 08/22/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Exempt
Bargaining Unit: NONAFF
Come Join the City of Bellevue!
Please fill out your application as fully as possible. The City evaluates candidates based on the information provided in the online application only. Do not submit resumes and cover letters. Read the "Hiring Process" section below to learn more.
New hires typically receive between minimum and midpoint, however, we may go slightly higher based on experience, internal equity and market.
Job Summary
The City of Bellevue is seeking a strategic, equity-centered, and collaborative leader who can unite human resources and diversity, equity, and inclusion into a cohesive, future-ready vision to join the leadership team as the next Director of Human Resources and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion . A strong leader with a passion for public service, this position provides proactive advice and counsel to departments in developing people-focused strategies that align with and drive a high-performance and inclusive, engaged workplace culture. The Director reports to a Deputy City Manager and contributes as an engaged leadership team member and collaborative, strategic business partner to address organization-wide opportunities and challenges for the City. The Director also sponsors or serves as a leadership team member on several citywide committees.
The Director of Human Resources and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion leads the people strategy, culture, and employee engagement for the City by integrating human resources, organizational development, and diversity, equity, and inclusion work. The Director oversees the human resources functions, programs, and services, including compensation and benefit systems, classification structures, recruitment, employee development and training, organizational culture, employee engagement, performance management, policy administration and compliance, payroll, and labor and employee relations. This role also oversees the City's diversity, equity, and inclusion work, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act and collaborates to implement the Diversity Advantage Plan. The Director integrates diversity, equity, and inclusion principles into human resources practices and policies, resulting in positive impacts across the employee lifecycle and organizational culture.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The Director provides a forward-looking workforce strategy, anticipating the jobs, benefits, and talent pipelines of the future. A high-level understanding of current trends and practices in equal opportunity, diversity, equity, and inclusion, community engagement, and community outreach, with a curiosity to learn from subject-matter experts, is essential. An effective communicator and active listener, the Director partners with departments across the City to develop and retain a high-performing, diverse workforce, ensuring Bellevue remains an employer of choice. With strong business and political acumen, the successful candidate thinks holistically about how human resources and diversity, equity, and inclusion affect every part of the organization, leaning in to provide proactive strategies that strengthen organizational resilience and position Bellevue as a leader in human resources and diversity, equity, and inclusion integration.
The Director is expected to model Bellevue's One City culture and work collaboratively with other department directors and staff. The City fosters an environment of inclusion, innovation, open communication, and collaboration where ideas and feedback are encouraged, supported, and valued. The Director promotes a culture committed to providing exceptional service, upholding the public interest, and implementing the community's vision. City employees take pride in their work, bring collective skills and qualities to the table, and embrace the values of integrity, stewardship, innovation, commitment to employees, diversity, equity, and inclusion, and exceptional public service. The Director is responsible for fostering an environment where leaders exist at all department levels, and where being innovative, collaborative, and future-focused are the norm.
Qualifications
Ten or more years of progressively responsible leadership experience in human resource management is required, including broad expertise in the various disciplines of human resources, including experience with classification and compensation, labor relations, benefits, protective leaves and ADA, employee relations, human resources information systems, alternative dispute resolution, organizational development, and talent acquisition. Prior experience supporting strategic diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts is essential. Direct experience leading and supervising a team is required. Previous experience working in labor relations and partnering with unions is highly valuable. Experience in a position of comparable scope and size to the City of Bellevue is ideal.
A bachelor's degree in human resources, public administration, business, communications, or related field is required. Professional Human Resources (PHR) or Senior Professional Human Resources (SPHR) certification is preferred, as is Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) certification. An equivalent combination of experience and education that enables success as the Director of Human Resources and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion will be considered.
Supplemental Information
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
The full salary range for the Director of Human Resources and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is $177,813 - $248,917 and will depend on the qualifications of the successful candidate. The City of Bellevue provides a generous benefits package. Learn more about the options and employee-based benefits
The City of Bellevue supports flexible work arrangements that promote productivity and work-life balance while ensuring operational effectiveness. This position is eligible for a hybrid schedule following an approved telework agreement and based on the assessment of business needs.
Please see recruitment brochure for more information.
HOW TO APPLY
Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. The position is open until filled with first review of applications beginning Monday, September 22, 2025.
At the City of Bellevue, you'll be part of a team committed to providing exceptional customer service, upholding the public interest, and advancing the community's vision. You'll work in an environment that is innovative, collaborative, future-focused, and committed to excellence. Bellevue welcomes the world. Our diversity is our strength. We embrace the future while respecting our past. It's what makes the City of Bellevue an exciting place to work, live, and explore.
The City of Bellevue supports workplace diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, marital status, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status.
Persons needing an ADA accommodation in the application process may call the Raftelis Office at or email If you are invited to participate in the selection process and need ADA accommodations, please notify the Search Manager before you are scheduled for an interview.
HIRING PROCESS
The City evaluates candidates based on the information provided in the online application only. Do not submit resumes and cover letters. To evaluate all candidates fairly and equitably, the City will make all applicants anonymous when we are screening the applications. We will redact information from our application such as your name, address, and other demographics. To help us, please complete the online application form as fully as possible.
Have we piqued your interest yet? Come join our team! The City of Bellevue supports workplace diversity. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, genetic information, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected status. Persons needing assistance with the application process may call the Human Resources Office, at or If you are invited to participate in the selection process and need ADA accommodations, please notify HR before you are scheduled for an interview or testing.
The City of Bellevue participates in the E-Verify program. Learn more about the E-Verify program.
For any technical difficulties with your application, please contact the NEOGOV support line at .
** Please be sure to check your junk folder for any messages that may be sent to you about this recruitment.**
The City of Bellevue offers employees a comprehensive benefits package providing choice, flexibility, and value!
Please Note: Seasonal, part-time, and variable employees are not eligible for the below benefits except for mandatory participation in the retirement plan assigned to the position, which will be the Municipal Employees Benefit Trust (MEBT 2) retirement plan or the Washington State Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) retirement plan and any other benefits as required by law.
The following summary applies to fully benefited positions:
Medical
Employees are offered a choice of medical coverage through the City's self-insured Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plan or Kaiser Permanente (HMO).
Dental
Employees are offered a choice of two dental carriers with plans that offer regular checkups, x-rays, fillings, and crowns. Orthodontia is available through one of the carriers.
Vision
Employees are offered a choice of vision coverage through an annual exam-only plan or a buy-up plan which includes an annual eye exam and hardware coverage.
Retirement Plans - Employees are offered three retirement plans:
More detailed information about our employee benefits is available at
Paydays - The City of Bellevue pays employees on the 8th and the 23rd of each month (24 pay periods per year).
Please note that the City does not participate in the Social Security Administration (SSA) program, and employees do not earn social security credits. The mandatory DRS retirement pension plan provides the required social security replacement plan. Any social security benefits earned at other places of employment may be reduced because they are subject to the Windfall Elimination Provision or the Government Pension Offset.
NOTE : This is a brief summary of the benefit programs for the City's non-represented employees. Every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. Benefits for employees represented by a may have different benefits. If any information on this document conflicts with the provisions of a CBA, the CBA prevails. Also, in the event of any incorrect information in this document, applicable laws, policies, rules, CBAs, or official plan documents will prevail.
Location : Bellevue, WA
Job Type: Regular
Job Number:
Department: Human Resources
Division: HR_Director
Opening Date: 08/22/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Exempt
Bargaining Unit: NONAFF
Come Join the City of Bellevue!
Please fill out your application as fully as possible. The City evaluates candidates based on the information provided in the online application only. Do not submit resumes and cover letters. Read the "Hiring Process" section below to learn more.
New hires typically receive between minimum and midpoint, however, we may go slightly higher based on experience, internal equity and market.
Job Summary
The City of Bellevue is seeking a strategic, equity-centered, and collaborative leader who can unite human resources and diversity, equity, and inclusion into a cohesive, future-ready vision to join the leadership team as the next Director of Human Resources and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion . A strong leader with a passion for public service, this position provides proactive advice and counsel to departments in developing people-focused strategies that align with and drive a high-performance and inclusive, engaged workplace culture. The Director reports to a Deputy City Manager and contributes as an engaged leadership team member and collaborative, strategic business partner to address organization-wide opportunities and challenges for the City. The Director also sponsors or serves as a leadership team member on several citywide committees.
The Director of Human Resources and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion leads the people strategy, culture, and employee engagement for the City by integrating human resources, organizational development, and diversity, equity, and inclusion work. The Director oversees the human resources functions, programs, and services, including compensation and benefit systems, classification structures, recruitment, employee development and training, organizational culture, employee engagement, performance management, policy administration and compliance, payroll, and labor and employee relations. This role also oversees the City's diversity, equity, and inclusion work, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act and collaborates to implement the Diversity Advantage Plan. The Director integrates diversity, equity, and inclusion principles into human resources practices and policies, resulting in positive impacts across the employee lifecycle and organizational culture.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The Director provides a forward-looking workforce strategy, anticipating the jobs, benefits, and talent pipelines of the future. A high-level understanding of current trends and practices in equal opportunity, diversity, equity, and inclusion, community engagement, and community outreach, with a curiosity to learn from subject-matter experts, is essential. An effective communicator and active listener, the Director partners with departments across the City to develop and retain a high-performing, diverse workforce, ensuring Bellevue remains an employer of choice. With strong business and political acumen, the successful candidate thinks holistically about how human resources and diversity, equity, and inclusion affect every part of the organization, leaning in to provide proactive strategies that strengthen organizational resilience and position Bellevue as a leader in human resources and diversity, equity, and inclusion integration.
The Director is expected to model Bellevue's One City culture and work collaboratively with other department directors and staff. The City fosters an environment of inclusion, innovation, open communication, and collaboration where ideas and feedback are encouraged, supported, and valued. The Director promotes a culture committed to providing exceptional service, upholding the public interest, and implementing the community's vision. City employees take pride in their work, bring collective skills and qualities to the table, and embrace the values of integrity, stewardship, innovation, commitment to employees, diversity, equity, and inclusion, and exceptional public service. The Director is responsible for fostering an environment where leaders exist at all department levels, and where being innovative, collaborative, and future-focused are the norm.
Qualifications
Ten or more years of progressively responsible leadership experience in human resource management is required, including broad expertise in the various disciplines of human resources, including experience with classification and compensation, labor relations, benefits, protective leaves and ADA, employee relations, human resources information systems, alternative dispute resolution, organizational development, and talent acquisition. Prior experience supporting strategic diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts is essential. Direct experience leading and supervising a team is required. Previous experience working in labor relations and partnering with unions is highly valuable. Experience in a position of comparable scope and size to the City of Bellevue is ideal.
A bachelor's degree in human resources, public administration, business, communications, or related field is required. Professional Human Resources (PHR) or Senior Professional Human Resources (SPHR) certification is preferred, as is Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) certification. An equivalent combination of experience and education that enables success as the Director of Human Resources and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion will be considered.
Supplemental Information
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
The full salary range for the Director of Human Resources and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is $177,813 - $248,917 and will depend on the qualifications of the successful candidate. The City of Bellevue provides a generous benefits package. Learn more about the options and employee-based benefits
The City of Bellevue supports flexible work arrangements that promote productivity and work-life balance while ensuring operational effectiveness. This position is eligible for a hybrid schedule following an approved telework agreement and based on the assessment of business needs.
Please see recruitment brochure for more information.
HOW TO APPLY
Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. The position is open until filled with first review of applications beginning Monday, September 22, 2025.
At the City of Bellevue, you'll be part of a team committed to providing exceptional customer service, upholding the public interest, and advancing the community's vision. You'll work in an environment that is innovative, collaborative, future-focused, and committed to excellence. Bellevue welcomes the world. Our diversity is our strength. We embrace the future while respecting our past. It's what makes the City of Bellevue an exciting place to work, live, and explore.
The City of Bellevue supports workplace diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, marital status, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status.
Persons needing an ADA accommodation in the application process may call the Raftelis Office at or email If you are invited to participate in the selection process and need ADA accommodations, please notify the Search Manager before you are scheduled for an interview.
HIRING PROCESS
The City evaluates candidates based on the information provided in the online application only. Do not submit resumes and cover letters. To evaluate all candidates fairly and equitably, the City will make all applicants anonymous when we are screening the applications. We will redact information from our application such as your name, address, and other demographics. To help us, please complete the online application form as fully as possible.
- Answer the Supplemental Questions when requested which can be found on the Questions tab of the Job posting.
- We do not accept resumes and cover letters during the anonymous application screening stage, unless otherwise stated in the job description.
- Applicants advancing to the next stage may be required to provide a cover letter, resume, writing sample, and references.
- All candidates will be required to establish employment authorization and identity at the time of hire. The City is not able to sponsor work visas.
- All positions require the completion of references checks, including at least one prior supervisor.
- Some positions may require completion of a criminal background check prior to start employment
- Some positions may require obtaining a commercial driver's license (CDL), licensures, or additional certifications.
Have we piqued your interest yet? Come join our team! The City of Bellevue supports workplace diversity. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, genetic information, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected status. Persons needing assistance with the application process may call the Human Resources Office, at or If you are invited to participate in the selection process and need ADA accommodations, please notify HR before you are scheduled for an interview or testing.
The City of Bellevue participates in the E-Verify program. Learn more about the E-Verify program.
For any technical difficulties with your application, please contact the NEOGOV support line at .
** Please be sure to check your junk folder for any messages that may be sent to you about this recruitment.**
The City of Bellevue offers employees a comprehensive benefits package providing choice, flexibility, and value!
Please Note: Seasonal, part-time, and variable employees are not eligible for the below benefits except for mandatory participation in the retirement plan assigned to the position, which will be the Municipal Employees Benefit Trust (MEBT 2) retirement plan or the Washington State Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) retirement plan and any other benefits as required by law.
The following summary applies to fully benefited positions:
Medical
Employees are offered a choice of medical coverage through the City's self-insured Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plan or Kaiser Permanente (HMO).
Dental
Employees are offered a choice of two dental carriers with plans that offer regular checkups, x-rays, fillings, and crowns. Orthodontia is available through one of the carriers.
Vision
Employees are offered a choice of vision coverage through an annual exam-only plan or a buy-up plan which includes an annual eye exam and hardware coverage.
Retirement Plans - Employees are offered three retirement plans:
- Washington State Department of Retirement Systems (DRS): Mandatory participation (PERS, LEOFF or PSERS), depending upon eligibility.
- City of Bellevue Municipal Employee's Benefit Trust (MEBT): Optional participation in this 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match contributions that vest on a 3-year schedule.
- Deferred Compensation Program (457 DCP): Optional participation in the supplemental Deferred Compensation Program also administered by DRS that allows tax-deferred savings into a variety of investments options.
More detailed information about our employee benefits is available at
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
- Life/Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
- Long Term Disability (LTD)
- Survivor Income
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- 11 observed holidays per year plus 2 additional personal holidays, vacation (standard accrual of 12 days a year), and sick leave (accumulated at the rate of one day per month)
- An ORCA Card bus pass
- On-site fitness center, and self service food/coffee options
- Career development and training programs
- Tuition Reimbursement Program
- Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
Paydays - The City of Bellevue pays employees on the 8th and the 23rd of each month (24 pay periods per year).
Please note that the City does not participate in the Social Security Administration (SSA) program, and employees do not earn social security credits. The mandatory DRS retirement pension plan provides the required social security replacement plan. Any social security benefits earned at other places of employment may be reduced because they are subject to the Windfall Elimination Provision or the Government Pension Offset.
NOTE : This is a brief summary of the benefit programs for the City's non-represented employees. Every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. Benefits for employees represented by a may have different benefits. If any information on this document conflicts with the provisions of a CBA, the CBA prevails. Also, in the event of any incorrect information in this document, applicable laws, policies, rules, CBAs, or official plan documents will prevail.