Human Resources Manager/Director

The Athenian School seeks a Human Resources Manager/Director to serve as the strategic and operational leader of the School’s Human Resources function. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, this role oversees the full employee lifecycle—from recruitment and onboarding through performance management, benefits administration, and offboarding—while ensuring compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations. The HR Manager/Director partners closely with divisional and administrative leaders to develop, implement, and continuously refine policies, practices, and systems that support a high-performing, inclusive, and mission-aligned workplace.

This leader administers HR operations including employment agreements, personnel records, regulatory reporting, employee relations, and leave management, and oversees the development and communication of the Employee Handbook and related policies. In addition, the role serves as a trusted advisor to supervisors, guiding performance management and workplace matters with discretion and sound judgment, while advancing initiatives that strengthen employee engagement, professional growth, and a culture of belonging consistent with Athenian’s values.

Successful candidates are experienced HR professionals who combine technical expertise with strong relational leadership and a deep appreciation for independent school communities. The ideal candidate brings progressive responsibility in human resources operations, compliance, recruitment, and employee relations; strong knowledge of California employment law and HR best practices; and the ability to balance strategic thinking with careful attention to detail. A bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field is required, with advanced degree or HR certification preferred.

We seek a collaborative and culturally competent professional who demonstrates exceptional organizational, written, and verbal communication skills; high emotional intelligence; and the ability to navigate complex and confidential matters with fairness and discretion. Above all, the HR Manager/Director will show a clear commitment to Athenian’s mission and values and an understanding of human resources as both a strategic function and a relational practice that strengthens the entire school community.

NON DISCRIMINATION COMMITMENT

The Athenian School is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to basing judgments concerning the employment of individuals upon their qualifications and abilities. The School is firmly committed to equal employment and advancement opportunities for all employees and applicants in all areas of employment. The School does not discriminate on the basis of an individual’s sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, race, color, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, military or veteran status, genetic characteristic or genetic information, physical or mental disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.