Department of Human Resources (DHR)

Job Title: Director

Department/Division: Department of Human Resources (DHR)

Closing Date: December 13, 2024

Type of Position: Political Appointee

Posting Type: Employment Opportunity/Open to the Public

Pay Grade and Salary Range: GS-18/$60,000 - $85,000 p.a.

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Email Your Resume, Cover Letter and References to: OfficeGovElectASG@gmail.com

1. Your Resume - Attach your updated resume in either a txt, Word document, or PDF format. Confirm the subject line includes the position you are applying for: Department of Human Resources (DHR)

2. Submit a Cover Letter and Headshot - Include a personalized cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications for the role. Be sure to include a recent headshot photo.

3. Provide Professional References - Send a list of at least three professional references. Include their names, phone numbers, and email addresses. You are welcome to include letters of reference if available.

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General Description

The Director of the Department of Human Resources (DHR) will provide executive leadership in overseeing the strategic direction and operational management of all human resource functions for the American Samoa Government (ASG). The Director will ensure the effective implementation of policies, programs, and services related to personnel management, workforce development, recruitment, compensation, classification, benefits administration, and employee relations. This position reports directly to the Governor and is responsible for guiding the department in alignment with ASG's mission, strategic goals, and legislative requirements. The Director will foster strong relationships with governmental agencies, the private sector, and community partners to promote an effective and compliant workforce.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

1. Leadership and Oversight:

   1. Lead and manage the Department of Human Resources, ensuring alignment with ASG's mission and objectives.

   2. Provide strategic guidance, direction, and leadership to the department's administrative and technical staff.

2. Policy and Compliance:

   1. Develop, implement, and enforce comprehensive HR policies and procedures in compliance with local and federal labor laws, and employment regulations.

3. Personnel and Workforce Development:

   1. Design and oversee workforce development initiatives, focusing on recruitment, training, employee retention, and career progression.

   2. Develop and implement personnel strategies that address both immediate and long-term workforce needs.

4. Budget and Resource Management:

   1. Manage the department’s budget and ensure efficient use of resources.

   2. Prepare and submit budget requests, manage procurement contracts, and oversee expenditure to meet organizational goals and workforce needs.

5. Employee Relations and Performance Management:

   1. Resolve complex personnel issues and advise senior leaders on employee relations matters.

   2. Promote a culture of high performance, accountability, and employee engagement across the ASG workforce.

6. Strategic Communication:

   1. Maintain open, transparent, and professional communication with ASG partners, stakeholders, and the public.

   2. Serve as the primary spokesperson for the department on personnel matters and workforce development initiatives.

7. Data Management and Reporting:

   1. Oversee the collection and analysis of workforce data, ensuring accurate reporting for performance evaluations, legislative reviews, and compliance audits.

   2. Provide regular reports to the Governor, Legislature, and ASG leadership on HR metrics, program outcomes, and workforce trends.

8. Workforce Advocacy and Stakeholder Engagement:

   1. Advocate for the workforce’s needs and interests in meetings with ASG leadership, the Governor’s office, and other government agencies.

   2. Represent the department on various boards, commissions, and committees related to workforce issues.

9. Continuous Improvement:

   1. Lead efforts to assess and improve human resource management systems and practices to meet evolving organizational and workforce demands.

   2. Promote a culture of innovation and excellence within the department.

10. External Relations:

    1. Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with local and regional educational institutions, training providers, and workforce development organizations.

    2. Seek opportunities for partnerships to address workforce needs and enhance employee skills.

11. Crisis Management and Emergency Response:

    1. Assist in the development of crisis management strategies related to workforce shortages, disasters, and other emergency workforce needs.

    2. Ensure that the department is prepared to support ASG in any emergency response activities.

12. Other Duties:

    1. Perform additional duties as assigned by the Governor or other senior ASG officials as needed.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• In-depth knowledge of human resources management, including personnel policies, recruitment, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and workforce development.

• Strong understanding of American Samoa Code Annotated, American Samoa Administrative Code(s), and relevant local and federal labor laws and regulations.

• Extensive experience in strategic leadership, planning, and management of human resources functions within a government or large organizational structure.

• Ability to develop and implement comprehensive HR strategies and policies that align with organizational goals and comply with legal requirements.

• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse groups of stakeholders, including government officials, employees, and the public.

• Proven ability to manage a large, multi-faceted department and oversee complex human resources functions across a wide range of services and programs.

• Proficiency in data management systems, including human resources information systems (HRIS) and workforce analytics.

• Ability to build, lead, and motivate a team of HR professionals and administrative staff to achieve departmental goals.

Academic and Experience Requirements

• Education: A Master’s Degree in Human Resources, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field from an accredited college or university.

• Experience: A minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in human resources management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role (Director or Deputy Director level). Experience in government or large organizational settings is preferred.

• Certification: Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) or Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) is highly preferred.

• Other: Must possess extensive knowledge and experience with HR laws, including labor laws, workplace regulations, and compliance standards in American Samoa.

Salary

The salary is competitive and based on experience and qualifications. Specific compensation details will be provided upon request.

Additional Information

For questions regarding the position or application process, please contact the Office of the Governor-Elect directly via email at officegovelectASG@gmail.com

*The American Samoa Government is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates will be considered for political appointments without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal and territorial laws. Appointments will be made based on qualifications, experience, and the ability to serve effectively in alignment with the policies and goals of the administration.