Program Director – HR Operations

About the Role

The Program Director, HR Operations is a senior leadership position within Human Capital responsible for overseeing the strategic direction, operational management, and continuous improvement of key HR functions. Reporting to the Assistant Director of Employee Experience and Digital Transformation, this role leads the delivery of critical programs across Employee Benefits and Compensation, HR Systems, HR Finance, and HRIS Administration. The Program Director partners with senior leaders and stakeholders across the agency to drive operational excellence, enhance the employee experience, and support the Port Authority’s commitment to being an Employer of Choice. This role offers the opportunity to lead transformative initiatives that strengthen HR service delivery and organizational effectiveness.

Responsibilities

• Lead HR Operations teams of 20+ employees encompassing Benefits, HRIS, and Support.
• Lead the design, implementation, and administration of operational processes supporting HR programs and initiatives.
• Develop and execute strategic plans that enhance HR Operations practices, policies, and service delivery.
• Partner with stakeholders to provide consultation and project leadership for compensation, benefits, HR systems, and employee transaction initiatives.
• Champion continuous improvement efforts and organizational change initiatives that drive business results and operational efficiency.
• Direct the development and administration of compensation and classification programs, including salary structures, market analyses, and annual compensation reviews.
• Ensure benefits and compensation programs remain compliant, competitive, equitable, and cost-effective to support talent attraction and retention.
• Lead initiatives to optimize HR technology solutions, including system enhancements, process automation, and user experience improvements.
• Collaborate with technology teams and external vendors to ensure HR systems integration, functionality, and performance meet business needs.
• Oversee HR financial planning activities, including benefits budgeting, labor costing, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Ensure the accuracy, timeliness, and integrity of HRIS transactions and employee data while maintaining system security and compliance.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field from an accredited college or university.
• Minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in human resources or a related field.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience leading and managing professional staff and teams.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience managing org structures of 10+ employees.  
• Demonstrated success leading large-scale HR operations, programs, and strategic initiatives within a complex public-sector or corporate environment.
• Experience advising senior executives on compensation, benefits, workforce planning, and HR operational strategies.
• Strong knowledge of compensation design, benefits administration, HR systems, and HR financial management practices.
• Proven ability to lead organizational change, drive continuous improvement, and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent leadership, communication, relationship management, and project management skills, with a track record of building high-performing teams.

Selection Process

The application process varies by position but typically includes an initial phone interview for qualified candidates, followed by a more in-depth interview(s) and/or assessment(s). Selected candidates who are made a conditional job offer will be asked to undergo a background check.

Compensation, Benefits & On-Site Collaboration Requirements

In accordance with Port Authority policy, this position permits employees to work remotely a maximum of one day per week, subject to operational and business needs.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey anticipates that the actual salary offered to a successful candidate will depend on factors such as experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and internal considerations. 

The salary range for this role is: Minimum: $153,426 Midpoint: $199,464   Maximum: $221,000

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey offers a competitive benefits package and a professional environment that supports development and recognizes achievement.

Click here for more information about benefits, our culture, and career development opportunities.