Human Resources Director

New Pioneer Food Co-op is a sustainable and forward-thinking local food marketplace, defined by:

shared economics, community enrichment, and partnerships in the Corridor

widespread and diverse participation

identifying and meeting the needs of members and future members

New Pioneer was started in 1971 and currently has three retail stores in Cedar Rapids, Coralville, and Iowa City, IA, as well as a production facility in North Liberty, IA. We are a local, community-focused business with over 30,000 owners.

Job Summary

The Director of Human Resources (HR) is a key member of the leadership team and a strategic partner in creating a thriving, inclusive, and resilient workplace. This role leads all aspects of the co-op's HR function, from compliance and benefits to payroll and performance management, ensuring systems are aligned with our cooperative values and long-term goals.

The ideal candidate brings a proactive and people-centered mindset, grounded in equity, accountability, and trust. They will guide the HR team while collaborating cross-functionally to shape practices that are legal, equitable, consistent, and responsive to our evolving needs.

This position plays a central role in building organizational strength through staff engagement, leadership support, and strategic workforce planning.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Workforce Planning

Collaborate with the CEO and leadership team to align HR strategies with co-op priorities and values

Lead the development of annual and long-range HR goals, budgets, and staffing plans

Use workforce metrics (e.g., engagement, turnover, equity indicators) to guide decisions and measure progress

Ensure HR presence and visibility across all co-op locations

HR Department Leadership & Team Development

Lead, coach, and support a high-performing HR team; model inclusive, collaborative leadership

Facilitate departmental planning and continuous improvement aligned with organizational needs

Support the growth and development of HR staff through mentorship, learning opportunities, and feedback

Ensure excellence in internal service delivery, accessibility, and communication

Guide knowledge management for HR documentation, SOPs, and training systems

Talent Development & Performance Culture

Oversee inclusive hiring practices that attract and retain diverse, mission-aligned staff

Champion staff development, onboarding, and training programs across all levels

Build systems for feedback, recognition, and continuous growth

Support succession planning and leadership development

Guide managers in performance management practices that are supportive, consistent, and legally sound

Compensation, Benefits & Compliance

Lead strategy and implementation for total rewards, including pay, benefits, and wellness

Ensure accurate and timely payroll in coordination with Finance

Oversee benefits administration and annual plan renewal, balancing access and cost

Maintain compliance with all applicable labor laws, including ADA, FMLA, and FLSA

Serve as a trusted advisor in complex or sensitive employee relations matters

Policy, Risk Management & Employee Relations

Maintain and evolve HR policies in alignment with legal requirements and cooperative values

Monitor changes in employment law and guide policy adjustments accordingly

Oversee employee relations, investigations, and resolution of concerns with care and consistency

Support workers' compensation and unemployment processes with legal compliance and dignity

Promote a respectful workplace and culture of accountability and inclusion

Organizational Culture & Internal Partnerships

Help foster a positive, welcoming, and values-aligned workplace environment

Model and promote respectful communication and professionalism at all levels

Advise leadership on equity, employee experience, and DEI strategy

Build partnerships across departments to support collaboration, morale, and shared success

Participate in executive hiring processes and cross-departmental planning efforts

Qualifications

Proven leadership in HR strategy and operations, preferably in a mission-driven or cooperative setting

Deep knowledge of employment law, compliance, and HR best practices

Strong team leadership and development experience

Demonstrated ability to foster equity, inclusion, and psychological safety

Skilled in conflict resolution, coaching, and cross-functional collaboration

Strong communication skills — compassionate, clear, and adaptable across audiences.

Strong analytical and decision-making capabilities

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Human Resources or related field preferred

SHRM, SPHR, or similar certification preferred

Familiarity with HRIS and payroll platforms (Paylocity preferred)

Familiarity with retail, grocery, food systems, or cooperative business models.

Multilingual ability is a plus

This role offers a benefits package including health, dental, and retirement plans. Competitive salary commensurate with experience.