City of Somerville

Director of Human Resources

Somerville, Massachusetts


To read the full position description and review application instructions, click download.


Website: City of Somerville

The City of Somerville seeks a Director of Human Resources (HR) who will build upon and execute a human resources strategy that provides exceptional service to the City’s dedicated employees. The Director of HR works closely with a committed team that provides guidance and support to all City department leaders regarding matters of personnel policies and procedures.

Working closely under the direction of the Mayor, the Director of HR will provide strategic guidance for the department, and oversee employee and labor relations in collaboration with City leadership. Specifically, the Director of HR will be responsible for developing, implementing, and coordinating policies and programs for recruitment and hiring; ensuring effective employee relations and performance management; overseeing benefit management and administration; and strengthening an internal culture that supports and furthers the City’s values.

Somerville is a city located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, just two miles north of Boston. Occupying slightly over 4 square miles, its population of almost 79,000 and a myriad of immigrants from all over the world make Somerville the most densely populated community in New England, and one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the nation. Rich in both history and culture, the city houses numerous intriguing sites, businesses, and restaurants for every style. Somerville has received national recognition as a model of innovation and efficiency for their 311-customer service helpline, and “SomerStat” – a data-driven style of managing government services. Somerville has been recognized as “the best run City in the Commonwealth.”

This is an excellent opportunity for an individual looking to make a difference through innovative government service. The new Director will join a dedicated team committed to the welfare of the residents and businesses of the City of Somerville. They will have the opportunity to collaborate with leaders across key City departments. The successful candidate will be collaborative in nature, and work with City leadership to implement a vision for the future that is consistent with the community’s values. The Director of HR will have proven leadership experience building and delivering talent development and management programs, policies, and processes, preferably in the context of government agencies. The ideal candidate will have functional expertise in most or all of the following areas: employee relations, training and professional development, benefits administration, and recruitment strategies and labor and union relations. The Director will be a strong relationship builder; be able to effectively communicate at all levels of the organization; hold confidentiality; and be accessible and approachable.

TO APPLY

The City of Somerville is being supported in this search by Tamar Datan and Catherine Seneviratne of NPAG. Due to the pace of this search, candidates are strongly encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Applications including a cover letter describing your interest and qualifications, your resume (in Word format), and where you learned of the position should be sent to: Somerville-DHR@nonprofitprofessionals.com. In order to expedite the internal sorting and reviewing process, please type your name (Last, First) as the only contents in the subject line of your e-mail.

The City of Somerville is an equal opportunity employer and proudly values diversity.
Candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.


Our Lead

Tamar.jpg

Tamar Datan

Senior Advisor

Tamar joined NPAG in 2015, as its first Senior Advisor, with 30 years of nonprofit experience as a board member, officer, funder, chief executive, program manager, consultant, advocate, and advisor. 

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