Vice President of People & Culture

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Full Time Senior Management Hybrid

2 days ago Requisition

Mission :

Woodwell Climate Research Center (Woodwell Climate) works at the intersection of science and decision-making. We partner with communities, businesses and policymakers to protect life and livelihoods from the devastating impact of climate change.

Woodwell Climate is a global non-profit, working at the intersection of science and decision-making. We are built on a foundation of world-class research with the drive to take action and contribute real-world solutions - partnering with communities, businesses and policymakers to protect life and livelihoods from the devastating impacts of climate change. Founded in 1985 by world-renowned ecologist George Woodwell, our organization is headquartered in Falmouth, MA with over 150 employees.

Summary:

Join Woodwell Climate as the Vice President of People & Culture (VPPC). In this role, you will serve as a strategic, collaborative, and forward-thinking leader responsible for aligning human resources initiatives with our mission, core values, and strategic plan. You will play a pivotal role in establishing professional workplace standards, elevating managerial capabilities, and fostering a culture of accountability, constructive feedback, and mutual respect.

As the leader of the P&C department, you will modernize operational infrastructure and support high-performing staff during an important phase of organizational growth. This position reports directly to the Chief Operating Officer (COO).

Responsibilities include but not limited to:

Strategic Leadership & Advisory

Act as a trusted advisor to executive leadership, department managers, and the Board of Directors.

Partner with the COO, President’s Office, and Senior Management on organizational design, management issues, and operational alignment.

Present workforce analytics, policy updates, and progress on strategic P&C initiatives to senior leadership and the Board.

Manage the P&C department budget, strategic planning, and annual work plan objectives.

Partner with the President’s Office to develop internal communications that reflect organizational mission, vision, and core values.

Culture, Engagement & Belonging

Foster an inclusive, supportive, and engaging work environment focused on staff well-being, trust, and mutual respect.

Establish and champion modern guidelines for workplace norms, professional conduct, communication, and business etiquette.

Integrate principles of diversity, equity, accessibility, and belonging (DEAB) across all P&C policies, hiring practices, and the employee lifecycle.

Drive engagement and retention initiatives to effectively manage organizational growth and enhance the staff experience.

Talent Management & Employee Lifecycle

Guide and mentor the P&C team to continuously improve department workflows and core HR functions.

Oversee workforce and succession planning to align staffing with organizational goals and develop internal talent.

Direct the strategy and execution of performance management, professional development frameworks, and manager training.

Identify human resources trends to introduce innovative and supportive workplace programs.

Ensure operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, sound risk management, and data-informed decision-making.

Develop, review, and refine institutional policies, employee handbooks, and operational procedures.

Approve policies developed within various sub-functions and departments.

Oversee HRIS operations and integrated software platforms (e.g., ADP Workforce Now, Thinkzoom) to streamline…