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Department Summary:
Lead Scalable Operations. Align People Strategy with Business Impact.
We're looking for a dynamic Director of HR Operations to drive the operational engine of our HR organization-one that supports over 110 HR professionals and about 7,500 employees across a complex, mission-driven FFRDC environment. Human Resources Information Services (HRIS), HR Service Center, and People Analytics report into this role.
In this highly visible role, you'll lead enterprise-wide HR operations while partnering closely with business sectors to ensure workforce strategies are aligned with organizational goals. You'll bring operational discipline, innovation, and a collaborative spirit to every aspect of HR service delivery from process improvement and compliance to workforce planning and cross-functional execution.
Roles & Responsibilities:Operational Excellence
Lead and continuously improve HR service delivery across core functions-recruiting, onboarding, employee relations, benefits, compliance, and more.
Optimize systems, workflows, and shared services to ensure consistent, high-quality HR support across the enterprise.
Establish and track KPIs to monitor performance, service levels, and operational efficiency.
Strategic Business Partnership
Serve as a trusted HR operations leader and advisor to sector leadership, ensuring HR strategies support business goals.
Collaborate with sector and corporate leaders to assess workforce needs, align talent strategies, and drive execution at scale.
Act as the connective tissue between HR and business units to ensure proactive support, agility, and strategic alignment.
Enterprise-Wide Process Innovation
Design and implement scalable HR processes that support organizational growth and change.
Identify opportunities to automate and streamline workflows, reduce complexity, and improve employee and manager self-service capabilities.
Ensure integration and compliance of HR systems with broader enterprise systems (finance, IT, legal, security).
Data-Driven Decision Making
Leverage analytics and reporting tools to surface insights on workforce trends, operational performance, and future talent needs.
Translate data into actionable strategies that enhance organizational agility and HR service effectiveness.
Leadership & Team Development
Lead, coach, and develop a team of 25 HR operations professionals, ensuring high performance and alignment with evolving business priorities.
Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement across the HR function.
Compliance & Risk Management
Ensure HR operations meet all federal, state, and FFRDC-specific compliance requirements.
Anticipate risks, develop mitigation strategies, and maintain audit readiness across all HR service areas.
Basic Qualifications:
15+ years of progressive HR leadership experience; at least 5 years leading large-scale HR operations.
Bachelor's degree required; Master's preferred in HR, Business, or related field.
Strong background in complex, mission-driven environments (government, FFRDC, or highly regulated industries preferred).
Ability to work onsite four days a week (McLean or Bedford office location) with occasional travel (15%).
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with Workday and Service Center operations preferred.
Experience leading larger teams of over 20 staff across various locations.
Proven ability to lead enterprise HR operations with a focus on process efficiency, system integration, and compliance.
Strong business acumen and the ability to collaborate cross-functionally at the executive level.
Expert in data-driven HR practices and HRIS technologies.
Adept at building high-performing teams and driving organizational change.
SHRM-SCP, SPHR, or other HR certifications are highly desirable.
This requisition requires the candidate to have a minimum of the following clearance(s):
None
This requisition requires the hired candidate to have or obtain, within one year from the date of hire, the following clearance(s):
None
Salary compensation range and midpoint:
$219,000 - $274,000 - $329,000 Annual
Work Location Type:
Onsite
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.Commitment to Non-Discrimination
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local or international law.
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