Chief Human Resources Officer

Chief Human Resources Officer Overview

Multnomah County is looking for a seasoned trauma-informed strategic leader to serve as the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO). The CHRO will advise executive leadership and elected officials, lead 6,500 employees, drive retention, and manage a $180 million budget while cultivating a culture of safety, trust, and belonging. The role will guide the county’s transition from a decentralized HR model to a shared-services structure and implement the Workforce Equity Strategic Plan (WESP).

Strategic Leadership & Vision

Develop and implement a comprehensive HR strategy, advocate to the Board and Department Directors on HR value and resource needs, and demonstrate strong business acumen.

Organization Culture, Equity & Belonging

Commit to intersectionality-centered equity, cultivate a work culture of safety and belonging, and use the WESP to guide change.

Operations, Shared Services & Change Management

Oversee all countywide HR programs including Labor Relations, HRIS, Compensation, Benefits, Wellness, Learning, Change Management, and Talent Acquisition; communicate clear policies; and lead the centralization/shared-services implementation.

Communication, Partnership & Customer Service

Use trauma-informed language to communicate with staff, create feedback loops, serve as a partner with departments, ERGs, unions, and external customers, and maintain a customer-focused approach.

Labor Relations, Compliance & Staff Development

Mentor and develop staff, act as decision-maker on complex labor issues, resolve confidential inquiries, ensure regulatory compliance, and champion equitable workplace policies.

• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• Minimum 6 years of progressively responsible HR experience in government, community, or educational settings.
• Experience managing in a union-represented environment.
• Proven ability to communicate complex HR strategies and data to diverse audiences.
• Experience with multi-million dollar budgets, forecasting, and resource optimization.
• Demonstrated success in guiding organizations through complex change with clarity and care.
• Advanced HR certification (SPHR, SHRM-SCP, etc.).

• Master’s degree.
• Minimum 8 years of senior HR leadership with direct supervisory responsibility.
• Direct, substantial experience in a large county, state, or municipal government.
• Transferable skills gained through education, work, military, or life experience relevant to this position.

Your completed application must include the following items:

• A completed online application.
• A resume covering relevant experience, including employer name, location, dates, title, brief responsibilities, and number of employees supervised.
• A cover letter addressing why you are interested in this position, demonstrating how your experience aligns with minimum and preferred qualifications, and highlighting any centralized HR experience.

Portland, OR – $–$ (annual)