Job Description

Position Summary:

The Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) at the Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center is an experienced, dynamic, and mission-driven leader that manages all aspects of human resources strategy and operations. The CHRO will serve as a strategic partner to executive leadership, shaping a people-first culture that supports the Zoo's mission of conservation, education, and community engagement.

This is a key leadership role responsible for developing and implementing HR policies and programs related to recruitment, onboarding, compensation and benefits administration, employee relations, performance management, and ensuring compliance with Zoo policies and legal regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership:

Develop and execute HR strategies aligned with the Zoo's strategic goals and values. Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on all people-related matters. Lead workforce planning initiatives to support organizational growth and succession.

Talent Management & Development:

Oversee recruitment, onboarding, and retention strategies to attract and retain top talent. Design and implement employee training, professional development, and leadership programs. Foster a high-performance, inclusive, and collaborative workplace culture.

Compliance & Risk Management:

Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations. Develop and update HR policies, procedures, and employee handbook. Manage workplace investigations and employee relations matters with fairness and confidentiality.

Compensation & Benefits:

Oversee administration of compensation, benefits, and performance evaluation systems. Benchmark compensation and benefits programs to ensure competitiveness.

HR Operations & Systems:

Optimize the use of data management and other technologies for efficiency and reporting. Oversee accurate and confidential recordkeeping and reporting functions.

Qualifications:

Required:

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field. Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive HR leadership experience. Demonstrated success in developing HR strategy and managing HR operations. Strong knowledge of employment laws and HR best practices.

Preferred:

HR Certification (e.g., SHRM-SCP, SPHR). Experience in a nonprofit, zoo, museum, or cultural institution setting.

Skills:

Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills. Proven ability to manage sensitive and confidential issues with integrity. Ability to work effectively with diverse teams and individuals. Proficiency in data management systems and Microsoft Office Suite.

Physical Demands

While the Chief Human Resources Officer role is primarily office-based, the following physical and environmental demands are associated with the position:

General Physical Requirements

Frequent sitting at a desk and working on a computer for extended periods (up to 6-8 hours/day). Frequent standing and walking, including movement between office areas and across the Zoo campus. Occasional bending, reaching, stooping, or kneeling during filing, meetings, or facility visits. Ability to lift and carry materials such as office supplies, laptops, or documents weighing up to 20 lbs.

Mobility & Environmental Conditions

Ability to traverse zoo grounds (indoors and outdoors) to engage with teams in animal care, education, guest services, etc. Exposure to variable outdoor conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and uneven surfaces when attending staff events, facility tours, or team meetings throughout the zoo. Occasional attendance at after-hours events, such as fundraisers, staff celebrations, or community outreach programs, which may involve standing or walking for prolonged periods.

Sensory Requirements

Clear vision and hearing for reading, computer work, video conferencing, and in-person communication. Effective verbal communication in a variety of settings (office, group meetings, loud outdoor areas).

Salary & Benefits

This is a full-time, exempt position with a starting salary range of $75,000 to $82,000, commensurate with experience. The Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

Health and dental coverage

Paid time off and holidays

Retirement plan with employer contributions

Opportunities for training and career advancement

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $75,000.00 - $82,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Employee discount Health insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance
Work Location: In person