About The Middle East Institute

Founded in 1946, the Middle East Institute is the oldest Washington-based institution dedicated solely to the study of the Middle East. It is a non-partisan think tank providing expert policy analysis, educational and professional development services, and a hub for engaging with the region"s arts and culture.

Position Title: Human Resources Director

Reports to: Vice President of Finance and Administration

Status: Full-Time, Exempt

Location: On-Site | Washington, DC

Salary Range: $100,000-$120,000

Position Overview

The HR Director plays a pivotal role in driving MEI's people and culture initiatives, shaping our employee experience, and fostering a vibrant and high-performing work environment. This hands-on position oversees the execution of HR initiatives aligned with our strategic priorities and managing the full spectrum of human resources functions. This includes the employee life cycle, talent acquisition, performance management, regulatory compliance, organizational culture, training and development, and compensation and benefits. With a focus on compliance and operational excellence, the HR Director will maintain current knowledge of HR best practices, policies, and legal regulations (eg. FMLA, ADA, EEO, etc). This role collaborates closely with MEI's leadership to continually enhance the Institute's people operations and provides expert guidance on HR-related matters.

The ideal candidate is an experienced human resource professional proficient in implementing performance improvement solutions, a skilled communicator, and passionate about optimizing people operations. They excel in designing proactive systems tailored to streamline workflows within dynamic and fast-paced environments.

This position reports to the Vice President of Finance and Admin with one direct report to be hired. This position is part of the Finance and Administration team.

Essential Responsibilities

The responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Direct MEI's talent acquisition strategy to attract top talent and implement comprehensive onboarding programs to ensure new team members are effectively integrated into MEI
Oversee the development and implementation of sound policies and procedures, ensuring MEI is a leader in best-in-class HR practices and compliance with all applicable regulations.
Lead talent management initiatives, including employee relations, organizational and performance management, and employee learning.
Serve as benefits administrator, including leading open enrollment and ensuring effective communication and rollout of benefit programs.
Champion organizational policies and manage organizational development efforts, including leading professional development and leadership training initiatives
In partnership with the Leadership Team, establish performance management frameworks and succession planning tools to identify and develop high-potential talent.
Launch and oversee performance evaluation and management processes and ensure continuous improvement, including guiding managers on the development of performance standards and evaluation.
Drive continuous improvement in employee onboarding and offboarding processes to ensure smooth transitions across the organization.
Maintain accurate and confidential employee records in compliance with legal requirements, and conduct regular audits to ensure HR practices comply with regulations and organizational policies.
Foster a positive and inclusive work environment and expertly handle complex employee relations matters with professionalism
Establish regular feedback systems, including stay interviews and focus groups, to gauge employee morale and address concerns.
Utilizing data, keep leadership informed of key metrics and insights into employee engagement, performance, and retention.
Drive all human resources initiatives and perform other duties as assigned or required.

Qualifications

Bachelors or Masters degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field.
5 - 7 years of HR experience, with a focus on employee relations, recruitment, and compliance.
Professional HR certification (e.g: SHRM-CP, SPHR) is preferred but not necessary.
Proven ability to cultivate a culture of efficiency and excellence.
Demonstrated success in senior HR roles - HR Director or similar.
People-oriented and results-driven with a record of effectively leading organizational change and executing strategic initiatives.
Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
Proficiency working with HRIS, Google Workspace, Adobe Sign, and Microsoft Office Suite.
Ability to build and effectively manage effective interpersonal relationships at all levels of the organization.
Strong knowledge of labor law and HR best practices.
Passion for optimizing organizational structures and enhancing human interactions to prompt positive employee experience.
Experience as a trained facilitator is a plus.

What We Offer

Comprehensive benefits include the option of 100% employer-paid coverage for self and family.
Retirement Savings Plan contribution of 7.5% of the first $25,000 annual salary and 6 % of annual salary after.
Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and Leave plans, including paid parental leave.
Employee Wellness Plans, including EAP and partnerships with Noom and Unwinding Meditation Apps.
Access The Oman Library and Middle East Journal, and select MEI events.

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Middle East Institute

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Human Resources Director