Title: Human Resources Director

State Role Title: Human Resource Manager III

Hiring Range: Commensurate with experience up to $155,000 annually

Pay Band: 7

Agency: Virginia Employment Commission

Location: VEC CENTRAL OFFICE

Agency Website: www.vec.virginia.gov

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

Are you a forward-thinking HR leader with a passion for public service and organizational transformation? The Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) is seeking a strategic and experienced Human Resources Director to lead our dynamic and innovative Human Resources Management Services (HRMS) team.

This is more than a leadership role—it’s an opportunity to shape the future of services in Virginia. As a trusted advisor to the Commissioner and Executive Team, you’ll guide agency-wide HR strategy, lead enterprise-level change initiatives, and ensure the delivery of high-impact services across a dynamic and diverse workforce.

In recent years, the VEC has embraced the modernization of systems and the transformation of workflows to enhance efficiency, resiliency, and service delivery. We are looking for a leader who not only understands this evolving workforce dynamic but is also energized by it—someone who will champion innovation, support our momentum, and take our people strategy to the next level.

You’ll oversee a collaborative HR team that thrives on creativity, continuous improvement, and data-informed decision-making. Together, you’ll drive initiatives in recruitment, compensation, employee relations, training, equal opportunity, and workforce development—ensuring that HR is not just a support function, but a strategic partner in achieving the agency’s mission.

If you're ready to lead with purpose, modernize HR operations, and build a culture of excellence and engagement, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact on the Commonwealth and the communities we serve.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership: Advise the Commissioner and executive leadership on HR strategy, workforce planning, and organizational development.

HR Program Oversight: Direct HRMS operations including recruitment, classification, benefits, training, and performance management.

Compliance & Policy: Ensure compliance with federal/state laws and develop agency-specific HR policies aligned with DHRM guidance.

Workforce Development: Lead training, leadership development, and succession planning initiatives to build a high-performing workforce.

Equal Opportunity: Serve as the agency’s EO Officer, ensuring compliance with 29 CFR Part 38.31 and promoting an inclusive workplace.

Change Management: Support major agency initiatives and strategic planning efforts, including the VEC’s Staffing Resiliency Plan.

Resource Management: Oversee HRMS staffing, budgeting, and resource allocation to support agency priorities.

Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with internal and external partners to resolve complex HR issues and drive continuous improvement.

Note: This position is located on-site in our Henrico Central Office and is not a remote-work position. The position is eligible for telework under the Commonwealth of Virginia and agency telework policies.

Minimum Qualifications

• Legal and Regulatory Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of state and federal legislation, policies, and regulations related to HRMS programs, as well as governmental HR policies and procedures.
• Human Resource Management Expertise: Strong grasp of the principles, practices, and theories of human resource management, including research, analysis, planning, evaluation, and measurement techniques.
• Personnel and Strategic Management: Exceptional skills in personnel management, strategic management, program management, and conflict resolution.
• Communication Skills: Excellent oral and written communication abilities, with proficiency in using software such as Cardinal and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Leadership and Advocacy: Proven ability to provide leadership, support, and guidance within a complex HR environment, fostering a vision that aligns with agency goals.
• Performance Monitoring: Skill in monitoring and evaluating operations and performance metrics, implementing changes to enhance effectiveness, and engaging in continuous improvement efforts.
• Program Management: Experience managing complex HR programs while supervising and mentoring professional staff.
• Collaborative Liaison: Ability to liaise with the executive team, managers, and strategic partners to address HR needs effectively.
• Analytical Skills: Proficient in researching and analyzing complex problems and data to inform policy and decision-making.
• Policy Development: Capable of developing, interpreting, and overseeing the implementation of HR policies and procedures.
• Innovation and Benchmarking: Conduct research to identify new information sources and benchmark best practices, promoting innovative solutions.
• Change Management: Partner with staff to ensure smooth transitions and adjustments within the agency and work units.
• Compliance Monitoring: Monitor and address changes in legislation, implementing necessary updates to maintain compliance.
• Technological Proficiency: Leverage technology to enhance productivity and efficiency within HR operations.
• Strategic Planning: Develop and execute strategic plans and program initiatives that align with organizational objectives.
• Training and Presentation Skills: Make effective presentations and conduct training sessions to enhance staff capabilities.
• Relationship Building: Build strong relationships with internal and external customers, responding effectively to their requests and needs.

This position requires the completion of a Statement of Economic Interest (SOEI) form and mandatory training on the Conflict of Interest Act (COIA). The SOEI form must be submitted online no later than the end of the first day in the new position, and subsequently thereafter each year during the annual filing period (January 1 to February 1). You should receive an email notification from the Virginia Conflict of Interest and Ethics Advisory Council regarding this process along with instructions on how to access the system. The COIA training must be completed within 2 months of assuming the new position, and every 2 years thereafter.

Additional Considerations

• Advanced education or certifications (e.g., SPHR)
• Experience in Virginia state government HR systems and regulations
• Familiarity with Cardinal, Microsoft Office Suite, PageUp, and HRIS platforms
• Demonstrated success in EO/EEO compliance and grievance resolution

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

The Virginia Employment Commission is committed to upholding our values in our employment opportunities across the Commonwealth to people from all backgrounds, including all races, ethnicities, genders, and abilities.

The VEC Is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program, and a Virginia Values Veterans (V3) certified employer. AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service alumni are encouraged to apply.
• The selected candidate must successfully pass a comprehensive background check including an FBI fingerprint background investigation.
• Applications for this position must be submitted electronically through this website. Mailed, emailed, faxed, or hand delivered applications and résumés will not be accepted.
• Applications are not accepted after the recruitment closing date.
• Please carefully review the details of this recruitment including the location of the position and the posted salary before applying. VEC does not provide relocation assistance, and no salary will be offered outside of the posted salary range / flat rate.
• Consideration for an interview is based solely on the information within the application (and/or resume). You must ensure your application/resume includes the scope of your experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities as it relates to the position you are applying for. Information not stated will not be assumed.
• This website will provide a confirmation of receipt when the application is submitted for consideration.
• For the status of your application and this position, please refer to your RMS / Jobs.Virginia.Gov account. We do not provide application status updates via email or telephone.
• Auxiliary Aids and Services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
• Applicants needing accommodations should contact the Human Resource office for additional information.

The VEC does not provide sponsorship; therefore, applicants must be a citizen or national of the U.S., a Lawful Permanent Resident, or an alien authorized to work in the US.
NOTICE: VEC will record information from each new employee’s Form I-9 (Employment Eligibility Verification) into the Federal E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.

Contact Information

Name: VEC Human Resources / Recruitment

Phone: For the most up-to-date status of your application, please refer to your Jobs.Virginia.Gov account. We do not provide application status updates via phone.

Email: Careers@vec.virginia.gov for recruitment related questions. Emailed applications, resumes, or cover letters will not be accepted. For the most up-to-date status of your application, please refer to your Jobs.Virginia.Gov account.

In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.