Chief Human Resources Officer

Overview

Wake County is partnering with Strategic Government Resources (SGR) to lead the recruitment for our next Chief Human Resources Officer.

To view the full job description and submit your application, please visit

For more information on this position, contact: Billy Owens, Senior Vice President, |

About the Position

Are you a forward-thinking, people-focused leader with a deep understanding of public sector operations and change management? If so, you might be the perfect fit to become Wake County’s next Chief Human Resources Officer! We’re looking for an exceptional strategic partner who is:

• Skilled in leading high-performing teams across diverse HR functions
• Adept at unifying departments and fostering a collaborative, people-first culture
• Experienced with implementing major systems and compensation modernization efforts

With a population of over 1.2 million, Wake County is one of the fastest-growing counties in the United States, known for its strong economy, high quality of life, and exceptional public services. Located in the heart of North Carolina’s Research Triangle, Wake County offers top-rated schools, world-class healthcare, abundant outdoor recreation, and a thriving arts and culture scene. Home to Raleigh and 11 other municipalities, it balances vibrant urban amenities with suburban comfort.

The Human Resources Department provides County-wide HR support including Talent Acquisition, Benefits, Compensation, Organizational Development & Training, Payroll, and Employee Relations. Reporting to the County Manager, the new Chief Human Resources Officer will lead 70+ HR professionals across eight functional areas. The ideal candidate will have deep HR leadership experience in a complex, public-sector environment. They will demonstrate emotional intelligence, a collaborative mindset, and the ability to unify and inspire a diverse team. Successful candidates will be strategic thinkers and effective communicators who lead with empathy and resilience. They must understand how to drive system-wide improvements while supporting frontline staff and internal clients. A people-first, in-person leadership style is essential to reestablish trust and connection.

Required qualifications for this position include:

• Bachelor’s in HR Management, Public Administration, or Business
• Eight years of related experience, including four in senior leadership

Preferred qualifications include:

• Master’s in Public Administration, HR, or Business
• Department head or executive leadership experience in local government
• SHRM or PSHRA certification

Additional Information

Location: WCOBRaleigh, NC

Hiring Range: 158,953.00 - 286,114.00

Market Range: 158,953.00 - 286,114.00

Context and Commitments

Equal Employment Opportunity: Wake County provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics.

Background Check: Position may require a background check that may include criminal, credit, motor vehicle, education, and sexual offender registry or others based on job requirements. Unless required by state law, a record of conviction will not automatically exclude you from consideration for employment. Wake County Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Emergency Service Worker: In the event of an emergency, participation in preparedness and response operations should be expected. Employee may be required to fill a temporary assignment in a role different from standard duties, work hours and/or work location in preparation for, during and after the emergency. Employee may also be required to participate in relevant exercises and regular preparedness training.