GovHR USA
The City of Lawrence, Kansas seeks a highly skilled and forward-thinking Human Resources Director to lead its Human Resources Division. The salary range for this position is $126,090 to $186,410 with an expected hiring range of $126,090 to $153,254 DOQ. A generous benefit and retirement package is also offered by the city; details are available at lawrenceks.org/hr/employee benefits.
This is an exceptional opportunity to join a progressive leadership team committed to building an engaged and empowered workplace culture that attracts, retains, and develops top talent. Lawrence is home to the University of Kansas and the sixth largest City in Kansas; and was named by Livability as the 84th Best Place to Live in America. Lawrence was also ranked seventh in best college towns as well as ranking 6th in the nation for bachelor’s degree attainment by the U.S. Census Bureau. Lawrence is the County Seat for Douglas County with proximity to the Kansas City and Topeka metropolitan regions providing easy access to world class cultural and entertainment opportunities.
Reporting to the City Manager, the Human Resources Director provides strategic leadership and management of all City-wide human resources programs, policies, and initiatives.
The Director serves as a trusted advisor to the City Manager’s Office, department heads, and employees, ensuring fair, consistent, and innovative approaches to HR management. The position supervises a team of eleven which includes payroll and risk management, and manages budgets for both HR operations and employee healthcare. The city has a total workforce of 999 FTEs with four bargaining units.
The successful candidate will be a collaborative and innovative HR leader who values transparency, equity, and communication. They will bring strong critical thinking skills, a thorough understanding of human resources best practices, and the ability to build partnerships across all levels of the organization. Experience in public sector HR management and labor relations is highly desirable.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and manage all activities of the Human Resources Division. Develop and implement HR policies, goals, and service delivery strategies. Oversee recruitment, selection, classification, and compensation systems. Direct employee benefit programs, including cost-effectiveness and vendor relations. Participate in and support labor negotiations; address labor/management issues. Provide guidance on employee relations, grievances, investigations, and disciplinary processes. Lead organizational training initiatives, including management and supervisory programs. Foster employee engagement, wellness, and recognition initiatives. Prepare and administer the HR Division budget; provide policy and program recommendations to leadership. Represent the City with employees, elected officials, labor groups, and external agencies. Qualifications
Extensive knowledge of human resources management principles and practices, including classification, compensation, benefits, recruitment, and employee relations. Experience with labor negotiations, organizational culture, and employee engagement strategies. Strong leadership, supervisory, and team-building skills. Proven ability to analyze complex issues, develop solutions, and implement effective programs. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Public or Business Administration, or a related field required; a master’s degree or professional HR certification preferred. Candidates must apply by October 31, 2025, with cover letter, resume, and contact information for five (5) professional references. For additional inquiries, contact Charlene Stevens, MGT Vice President of Human Capital Solutions (847) 380-3240 X 124. The City of Lawrence, KS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Application Deadline: October 31, 2025 Posted: 2025-10-08
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Lead and manage all activities of the Human Resources Division. Develop and implement HR policies, goals, and service delivery strategies. Oversee recruitment, selection, classification, and compensation systems. Direct employee benefit programs, including cost-effectiveness and vendor relations. Participate in and support labor negotiations; address labor/management issues. Provide guidance on employee relations, grievances, investigations, and disciplinary processes. Lead organizational training initiatives, including management and supervisory programs. Foster employee engagement, wellness, and recognition initiatives. Prepare and administer the HR Division budget; provide policy and program recommendations to leadership. Represent the City with employees, elected officials, labor groups, and external agencies. Qualifications
Extensive knowledge of human resources management principles and practices, including classification, compensation, benefits, recruitment, and employee relations. Experience with labor negotiations, organizational culture, and employee engagement strategies. Strong leadership, supervisory, and team-building skills. Proven ability to analyze complex issues, develop solutions, and implement effective programs. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Public or Business Administration, or a related field required; a master’s degree or professional HR certification preferred. Candidates must apply by October 31, 2025, with cover letter, resume, and contact information for five (5) professional references. For additional inquiries, contact Charlene Stevens, MGT Vice President of Human Capital Solutions (847) 380-3240 X 124. The City of Lawrence, KS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Application Deadline: October 31, 2025 Posted: 2025-10-08
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