Executive Director of Human Resources; Ord. Executive , Exempt

About the Department

The Seattle Police Department (SPD) is comprised of approximately 1,600 dedicated law‑enforcement professionals who are committed to creating and fostering a collaborative, innovative work environment. SPD values excellence in identifying and resolving complex challenges while respecting diverse traditions, heritages, and experiences.

The Executive Director of Human Resources (Ord.

Title:

Executive 4, Exempt) is a key management position reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer. This role oversees a division budget of approximately $26.8 million and manages 46 personnel to design, implement, and administer all human‑resources initiatives and systems, emphasizing equity and inclusion in line with the City’s Race and Social Justice Initiative.

• Oversee Labor Relations, Employment Services, Retention, Recruitment, Leadership Development, Performance Management, Personnel Records, Job Classification and Compensation, Workers’ Compensation, Disability Management, Occupational Wellness, and Equal Opportunity & Workplace Investigations.
• Handle employee and labor relations, serve on the management team, negotiate labor contracts, ensure compliance with memoranda of agreement, and resolve labor grievances.
• Provide guidance on employee relations issues and workplace concerns, ensuring fair and consistent application of disciplinary policies.
• Offer strategic advice and policies as part of the Leadership Team, develop and implement HR work plans that eliminate barriers to recruiting, hiring, developing, and retaining uniformed members who reflect Seattle’s diversity and cultivate trauma‑informed leadership across all bureaus and precincts.
• Represent SPD in City meetings, the City Council, and Citywide work groups; collaborate closely with Seattle’s Department of Human Resources on program and policy matters.

• Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, human resources, or a related discipline—or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Eight or more years of progressively responsible HR management in an organization of comparable scope and size.
• Experience working with represented employees and/or labor relations groups.
• At least five years supervising or leading an HR function or team.
• Experience with time‑keeping software systems such as UKG, Workday, Kronos, or similar.

• Champion of workforce equity and diversity.
• Effective communication with union representatives and employees at all levels.
• Leadership in programs and procedures ensuring employee well‑being, cost control, ethical practices, and policy compliance.
• Problem‑solving, conflict resolution, and decision‑making skills.
• Strong collaboration and partnership‑building skills.
• Open, honest, and accessible management style.
• Understanding of labor law and employment standards.
• Experience in internal investigations and principles of Equal Employment Opportunity.
• Experience working with public safety or paramilitary organizations.
• Experience leading labor contract negotiations.
• Completion of ongoing diversity, equity, and inclusion training is expected.
• Familiarity with Revised Code of Washington laws, Washington Administrative Code regulations, and NFPA codes and standards.
• Graduate degree in a relevant field desirable.
• Certification as PHR or SPHR by the HR Certification Institute desirable.

• Must pass a Seattle Police Department background investigation.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• Must perform work on‑site.

The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life, and long‑term disability insurance for employees and their dependents. More information about employee benefits is available on the City’s website at: https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

The full salary range for this position is $93.16 – $153.70 per hour. This is a full‑time (1.0 FTE) regular position with full benefits, is FLSA exempt, and falls under the discretionary pay band. This is a Civil Service position.

• Apply online at http:// Please refer to Job# .
• Provide a cover letter and resume that explain why your skills and experience qualify you for this job.
• Complete all supplemental questions. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

If you have any questions, please contact Dene Warren Sakamoto ren Sakamoto.