Director of HR Compliance & Employee Relations

The Director of HR Compliance & Employee Relations manages efforts to keep a fair, safe, and legal workplace. This role develops and oversees compliance programs. The Director manages employee relations strategies and ensures the company follows all employment laws. Acting as a trusted advisor, the Director gives guidance on investigations, policy development, and risk mitigation. The Director also works to create a positive and inclusive work environment.

Responsibilities and Qualifications

Compliance & Risk Management
• Develop, implement, and monitor compliance programs aligned with regulatory requirements (EEO, ADA, FMLA, ERISA, OSHA, wage & hour, etc.).
• Conduct compliance audits, risk assessments, and internal investigations into policy violations or unethical behavior.
• Serve as liaison with regulatory agencies and manage responses to audits and inquiries.
• Oversee preparation and submission of regulatory filings and reports.
• Monitor legislative changes and update policies accordingly.

Employee Relations
• Lead strategy for employee relations, ensuring consistent and equitable practices across the organization.
• Oversee resolution of employee complaints, grievances, and workplace conflicts.
• Oversee timely investigations into allegations of discrimination, harassment, or policy violations.
• Provide guidance to managers on corrective actions, performance improvement, and disciplinary processes.
• Partner with HR Business Partners to deliver training on conflict resolution, compliance, and workplace conduct.

Policy Development & Training
• Design and communicate HR policies, handbooks, and procedures to ensure clarity and compliance.
• Support development and delivery of training programs on compliance, ethics, and employee relations best practices.
• Promote a culture of accountability, integrity, and respect through proactive education and engagement initiatives.

Safety & Wellness Oversight
• Ensure compliance with workplace safety standards.
• Administer workers’ compensation and leave management programs, including accommodations and return-to-work processes.

Required Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, or related field; JD or advanced degree preferred.
• 8–10 years in HR compliance and employee relations, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• SPHR, SHRM-SCP, or equivalent preferred.
• Deep knowledge of employment law and regulatory frameworks.
• Exceptional investigative and conflict-resolution skills.
• Ability to influence and partner with senior leadership.
• Excellent communication, critical, and decision-making capabilities.

At REI, we believe the outdoors is for all. We are committed to becoming a fully inclusive, anti-racist, multicultural organization. We know that there's strength in our diversity – that each employee brings unique skills, experiences, and perspectives. Every day you are driving change, fostering a culture of respect, and knowing you're backed by benefits that support your whole life. To work towards this commitment and fulfill our brand promise of inspiring and enabling a life outside for everyone, we seek employees who demonstrate different ways of working, create a sense of belonging, and actively listen and learn.

Pay Transparency

We are committed to practices that promote pay equity and transparency. As required by applicable Pay Transparency laws, REI provides a range of compensation for roles that may be hired in locations under these requirements. Factors that may be used to determine your actual salary may include a wide array of factors, including: your specific skills and experience, geographic location or other relevant factors.

REI offers all regular employees a generous employee discount, access to health benefits, a retirement savings plan and accrued time off. Click here for a detailed overview of benefits plans by employee profile.