Chief Human Resources Officer

About the role

The Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) is one of the leading school systems in Maryland and the nation. To learn more about us and our 2024 -2029 Strategic Plan , please visit our website and our careers page . Join our award-winning workforce and make a difference in the lives of our students! ABOUT THE APPLICATION PROCESS Before you begin, please read the job posting below carefully including the Application Requirements specific to this position. Be sure your application reflects experience and education required to meet the minimum and any preferred qualifications listed. Our application guide includes detailed instructions to assist you. Once your application has been submitted, you will not be able to add documentation or make any changes. Please note that application submission will be available only through 11:59 PM on the date p rior to the indicated end date. If no end date is indicated, the posting will remain open indefinitely . Job Posting End Date: Reminder: Current permanent and temporary employees must apply through the Jobs Hub in Workday, not the external career site. This position will be posted until filled. Initial review of applications will begin on June 1, 2026. First consideration will be given to applications submitted by May 31, 2026. Applications submitted after this date may be considered based on the needs of the school system. Under the direction of the Superintendent and Deputy Superintendent, the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) establishes and executes a clearly articulated vision and strategic plan to lead and align the Departments of Human Resources and Employee and Labor Relations and closely collaborate with General Counsel. As a key member of the Superintendent's Cabinet, this position provides executive leadership to shape and drive a systemwide human capital strategy in support of the school system's mission and strategic priorities, while promoting a positive, inclusive, and supportive work environment aligned with system values and equity commitments. The CHRO leads the implementation of innovative, data-driven strategies to recruit, develop, support, and retain a highly qualified, diverse, and culturally proficient workforce to ensure the success of all students. In this role, the CHRO is also responsible for creating an exceptional customer experience by fostering a culture of service that consistently exceeds the expectations of employees and organizational stakeholders. The CHRO leads a comprehensive, end-to-end talent management system spanning recruitment, onboarding, development, retention, and succession planning to ensure a high-performing workforce aligned to system priorities. This position collaborates with school system leaders to implement human resources, employee and labor relations, and employment-related legal practices that comply with federal and state laws, Board of Education policies, and negotiated agreements, and ensures that policies, procedures, and practices align with compliance and equity standards . The CHRO provides strategic guidance and oversight on workforce planning, labor relations, and organizational risk, ensuring coordinated, efficient, and legally sound practices across the organization. This role serves as a trusted advisor to the Superintendent and Board of Education on matters related to human capital, employee relations, and legal compliance. This position requires an inspiring, collaborative, and innovative leader with outstanding people and management skills, and the ability to balance strategic leadership with sound judgment in a complex public education environment.

Requirements

• Applicants must meet the qualifications below to be considered for the vacancy.
• Education:
• Master's degree from an accredited college or university in human resources, business administration, public administration, educational administration, law, or a related field .
• Minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible leadership experience in human resources, employee and labor relations, or a related field, including:
• Supervision of professional and senior-level staff
• Experience leading complex organizational change and strategic initiatives
• Experience developing, monitoring , and evaluating programs using data and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
• Direct communication, collaboration, and partnership with executive leadership, a Board of Education or other comparable governing body, government officials, and internal and external stakeholders
• The ideal candidate for this role will also possess a combination of the additional qualifications below. If you don't meet every one of the preferred qualifications, we still encourage you to apply, as we welcome applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences.
• Three (3) years of leadership experience in a mid-size to large PreK-12 public school system
• Experience leading or support

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