Director of People and Culture

About Us

Inner-City Computer Stars (i.c.stars) is a 25-year-old nonprofit workforce development organization dedicated to preparing individuals from underserved communities for rewarding careers in technology. With a passionate team of 35+ professionals, we’re committed to bridging the gap between diverse talent and the tech industry. We find talent, train talent and place talent in rewarding careers that end cycles of generational poverty and yield long-term success. At our core, we believe that innovation thrives when people are empowered, supported, and allowed to grow.

If you’re someone who is energized by people-first leadership and is passionate about making a lasting impact, we want you to be a part of our journey as we continue to shape the future of tech professionals.

Role Overview

As the Director of People and Culture, you will be the heart of our organization’s HR practices, and staff culture, driving our efforts to foster a dynamic, inclusive, and thriving workplace. You’ll have the unique opportunity to shape the employee experience, foster a culture of belonging, and lead organizational development initiatives that empower our team to reach new heights.

This role is new for our organization and is ideal for an HR professional who brings experience in organizational development and a genuine desire to enhance the human side of our growing team. This role is both strategic and tactical in that you’ll assist in policy-setting and implementation, traditional HR oversight, and organizational development. You’ll work closely with our leadership and staff guiding our HR practices, leading on performance management and professional development while assisting us in cultivating a culture that is both steeped in best practices and innovations.

Key Responsibilities

HR Core Functions

• Oversee all HR processes including: job description development, talent acquisition strategies from candidate recruitment, interviewing, and hiring to onboarding.
• Liaise with PEO to manage compensation, benefits, and ensure compliance with legal requirements and best practices.
• Develop and maintain systems for performance reviews, feedback, and continuous improvement. Assist staff in identifying development opportunities.
• Manage employee relations issues, including conflict resolution, performance concerns and disciplinary actions. Conduct investigations and provide guidance to managers on employee matters where needed.
• Manage and improve the employee lifecycle from recruitment through to exit interviews.

Organizational Development

• Lead talent management strategies including performance management, leadership development, and succession planning.
• Create, implement, and refine onboarding practices and policies in collaboration with managers.
• Maintain and ensure organization-wide utilization of performance management systems.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to implement professional learning and development efforts.
• Drive the ongoing assessment and evolution of organizational structure to meet the needs of our growing team and mission.

Culture Stewardship/Employee Well-being

• Cultivate a positive, inclusive, and collaborative workplace culture that aligns with our values and mission.
• Lead initiatives that enhance employee engagement, job satisfaction, and retention across diverse teams.
• Serve as a trusted advisor and confidant to staff at all levels, offering guidance on professional development, conflict resolution, and organizational growth.
• Promote employee well-being through wellness initiatives, benefits offerings, and employee engagement programs.
• Advocate for a healthy work environment, offering creative solutions for team-building, and mental health support.

Change Management

• Partner with leadership to support organizational change initiatives, guiding employees through transitions while maintaining morale and productivity.
• Foster a growth mindset and champion innovation, helping teams adapt to new tools, systems, and ways of working.

What You Bring

• A Bachelor’s degree in HR management, business administration, industrial/organizational psychology, employment relations, sociology or related field, OR equivalent experience.
• Professional certifications such as SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP or PHR/SPHR preferred.
• 5–7 years of HR experience, with at least 3 years in organizational development.
• Expertise in implementing HR processes that support growth and culture.
• Strong understanding of change management and team transformation.
• Commitment to leadership development and people growth.
• Passion for DEI and a collaborative, people-first approach.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Knowledge of labor laws, compliance, and nonprofit HR best practices.
• Experience with HR tech like Lattice and Trainual.

Why Join Us?

• Make an Impact: Shape the team that prepares individuals for tech careers.
• Growth Opportunities: Help shape your role and grow professionally.
• Collaborative Environment: Work in a team-oriented, inclusive culture.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible arrangements and strong benefits.
• A Culture of Learning: Constant personal and professional growth.

Location

Chicago office. Hybrid/Remote environment

Reports to

Chief Operating Officer, serves on the National Team