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Form of workJob Description
Title: Human Resources Director
Reports to: Chief People Officer
Department: HR
Classification: Full Time, Exempt
Location: This role is based in Portland, OR
We are Thesis. Proudly headquartered in Portland, OR, for over 20 years, we're a digital agency hell-bent on humanizing the relationship between people and brands. Our values guide what we do, our culture is built upon the belief that our strength is in our approach, and our work is only as strong as the people, data, creative spirit, and diverse perspectives we put behind it.
THE JOBThe HR Director is responsible for the overall administration, enforcement and evaluation of the Human Resources functions that oversee benefits administration, payroll and general HR support for Thesis employees. This role works closely with internal and external stakeholders to develop solutions to complex problems, review HR policies and best practices and will work to consistently improve workflow efficiencies.
AS A PERSON, YOU ARE:A Mentor: This role provides mentorship guidance to other roles as an additional channel of support that helps reinforce the community mentality within the department.
A Leader: This role provides guidance, coaching and leadership to the Human Resources team members (HR Generalist, Payroll, Benefits & Leaves Specialist), including the growth and development of individuals in these HR support roles.
Collaborator: This role collaborates across all agency functions in a HR support function. You will maintain strong relationships with other departments to ensure company policies and procedures are being consistently followed, and intervene or offer support as needs arise.
Maintain knowledge of laws, regulations and best practices in employment law, Human Resources and benefits/leave administration.
Ensure the benefits plan administration and leave of absence, workplace accommodation, and workers' compensation programs comply with applicable laws (e.g. HIPAA, ERISA, ADA, OSHA).
Work closely with the benefits brokers/vendors to ensure legal compliance. In partnership with the Chief People Officer, research, develop and oversee benefits and other employee incentive programs in order to maintain a competitive benefits package.
Oversee annual agency-wide open enrollment process, and direct the work of the Benefits Specialist in ongoing day to day administration of all benefits programs.
Triage employee relations issues that arise (conflict resolution, performance management); uplevel escalated concerns to the Chief People Officer as needed.
Collaborate with the Learning & Development Director to identify areas where managers and leaders need greater training or development in support of employee management.
Provide ongoing status updates to the Chief People Officer in areas identifying employee risks, compliance issues, benefits and HR project updates
Work in close collaboration with the People Operations Director and other HR staff on all processes related to the employee experience (HRIS management, onboarding, annual merit process, performance reviews, promotions and offboarding) as needed.
Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, or related field
SHRM-SCP or SHRM-CP professional designations preferred
7+ years of Human Resources experience, preferably in a creative agency, start-up or other fast-paced industry.
Deep knowledge and experience in employment law, benefits, organizational planning and development and employee success.
Proven experience optimizing Human Resources systems and processes
Consultative approach: excellent communication and influencing skills to communicate effectively and credibly, both verbally and in writing, with audiences at all employee and management levels.
Strong supervisory, leadership and mentorship skills.
Ability to lead with empathy while also effectively communicating the business component for any situation.
Ability to partner with leaders across the organization in order to champion Thesis’s values and execute both departmental and organizational goals.
High proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Google Suite.
The following capabilities are required in order to perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations that do not create an undue burden on the agency are available to address the following requirements.
Using standard office equipment, computers, and related technology.
Certain activities are performed in an environmentally controlled office setting subject to extended periods of sitting, keyboarding, and manipulating a computer mouse.
Bending, reaching, lifting, pushing, and pulling up to 25 pounds.
Travel is not anticipated for this role.
Thesis operates using a flexible hybrid model (i.e., work occurs remotely and in the office, as needed). Employees should consult their department Director or Head for specific team frameworks, protocols, and guidelines.
Workplace equity is not a single checkbox.
It's a vital way of thinking, working, and moving through the world. At Thesis, we prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion. You'll see this in our hiring practices, growth projects, and workplace programs — because our agency, our work, and our society are better when diverse perspectives come together.
VALUESBe Lean, Take Action: We believe in thinking big, rolling up our sleeves, and getting the job done. And while we love a good plan, we believe in using process as an engine, not a brake.
Say What You Mean, Mean What You Say: We’re all here to learn, grow, and evolve together, which requires connecting, conflicting, and embracing. Honesty and ideas are welcome; ego is not.
Show Up Fully: We invite you to bring your whole self to work — your perspective, cultural background, lived experiences — while creating room for others’ strengths to complement your own. What makes you remarkable is welcome at Thesis.
ENCOURAGEMENTAbove all, be hungry to learn and grow beyond this job description.
We know that marginalized groups often only apply for jobs if they meet 100% of the qualifications and that many come from backgrounds with different experiences that might seem different. That’s OK; you don’t have to “check all the boxes” as you read this job post. We understand, and we’ll do our best to honor your application.
We also know the confidence gap and imposter syndrome can get in the way of meeting spectacular candidates. So, please don’t hesitate to apply. We’d love to hear from you.
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