Director, HR Compliance & Employee Relations

Director, HR Compliance & Employee Relations (Hybrid - Columbia, SC)

The Director of Human Resources Compliance & Employee Relations leads the design, implementation, and oversight of policies and programs that ensure organizational compliance with employment laws/regulations while cultivating a culture of trust, accountability, and collaboration. This role serves as a strategic advisor, championing fair practices and proactive employee engagement to support a high-performing workplace.

What you’ll do

HR Compliance Leadership

• Monitor and understand federal, state, and local employment laws/regulations and ensure policies and practices remain compliant.
• Oversee internal and external HR audits , internal investigations, and regulatory reporting; serve as liaison with internal and external legal counsel.
• Design and implement training programs on employment practices and policies, workplace conduct, and related compliance.
• Collaborate with the bank’s HR Business Partners and empower cross-functional partners and business leaders to manage employee disciplinary actions to ensure consistent, uniform, and fair application of the bank’s policies and procedures.
• Stay abreast of employment trends and changing regulations that may impact the bank’s policies.
• Oversee the development , implementation, and review of policies and procedures to ensure the human capital plan’s effectiveness and compliance.
• Ensure that all HR leaders have established and documented standard operating procedures for their respective areas of responsibility.
• Serves as the central owner of information related to compliance, including state-specific onboarding requirements, annual update of the Employee Handbook, and required federal, state, and local reporting.

Employee Relations Leadership

• Develop and execute employee relations strategies that align with business objectives and foster a positive culture.
• Lead conflict resolution , investigations, and corrective action processes with fairness and discretion.
• Serve as a strategic leader of matters related to employee relations and compliance.
• Oversee employee relations matters and recommend appropriate employment action to maintain a productive, positive work environment.
• Support and partner with managers in employee improvement plans, disciplinary actions, and termination processes, ensuring compliance and consistency across the bank.

Leadership & Team Development

• Ensure continuous development across the team.
• Foster a culture of innovation , accountability, and continuous improvement with direct reports.
• Manage, coach, mentor , and continuously develop the HR Compliance and Employee Relations team.

What you'll need

• Master's Degree required in Human Resources Management, Organizational Leadership, Business Administration, Education, or similar graduate or terminal degree
• 10+ years of employee relations experience with relevant experience as a human resources business partner/leader.
• 7+ years of demonstrated experience conducting investigations and managing complex employee relations situations, including investigations, conflict resolution, and policy interpretation.
• In-depth knowledge of HR best practices, employment laws, and regulations.
• Experience writing policies and standard operating procedures.
• HRCI or SHRM certifications strongly preferred.
• Leadership: Ability to lead and inspire teams, manage change, and drive strategic initiatives.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey ideas and influence stakeholders
• Decisiveness: High level of proficiency in analyzing data to make informed decisions and measure the impact of HR initiatives.
• Strategic Vision/Alignment: Capability to develop and implement long-term strategies that align with organizational goals. Ability to identify new ways for functional areas to support the business strategy and develop clear, actionable steps in support of the overall business strategy.