Position Overview

The City of Saskatoon is seeking a forward-thinking, relationship-driven Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) to lead the strategic direction and operational excellence of our Human Resources function. As a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, you will help shape the future of a vibrant, growing city by aligning people, processes, and culture with our organizational values and strategic priorities.

This is an opportunity to champion the City’s commitment to building a High Performing Organization (HPO)—one that embraces innovation, equity, reconciliation, and continuous improvement. You will inspire a diverse, unionized workforce and empower leaders across the organization to create a safe, inclusive, and high-performing environment where employees can do their best work to serve the community.

Key Responsibilities:

In this critical leadership role, you will:
•    Serve as the principal advisor to the City Manager and City Council on all HR matters.
•    Participate as a member of the Executive Leadership Team in organizational planning and decision-making.
•    Lead the development and execution of HR strategies that support workforce planning, cultural transformation, and long-term organizational goals.
•    Champion organizational design, change management, and strategic initiatives grounded in HPO principles.
•    Use data, analytics, and performance metrics to drive informed decision-making and evaluate HR effectiveness.
•    Direct labour relations activities, including collective bargaining, contract administration, and union engagement.
•    Ensure compliance with legislation, collective agreements, and corporate policies.
•    Oversee talent acquisition, performance management, learning and development, and succession planning across the organization.
•    Promote a culture of equity, diversity, inclusion, psychological safety, and respectful workplace practices.
•    Lead initiatives to elevate employee engagement, wellness, and retention.
•    Manage compensation, job evaluation, benefits, pension plan oversight, and HRIS systems.
•    Deliver efficient, responsive HR services to all City departments and Boards.
•    Develop contemporary HR policies, programs, and procedures that enhance organizational effectiveness.
•    Prepare and manage the HR department’s budget and annual work plan.
•    Foster transparent communication and build strong coalitions with internal and external partners, including government officials and union representatives.
•    Create feedback loops and engagement pathways that amplify employee voices and support continuous improvement.

Qualifications:

•    Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field; an advanced degree is preferred.
•    Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) designation, or willingness to obtain.
•    Minimum 15 years of progressive leadership experience, including senior management experience in a unionized environment.
•    Demonstrated success in strategic leadership, labour relations, organizational development, and cultural transformation.
•    Strong financial acumen and experience managing complex budgets.
•    Exceptional communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
•    Proven commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and reconciliation.
•    Ability to apply innovative, creative solutions to complex organizational challenges.
•    Ability to build respectful, effective relationships with staff at all levels, elected officials, unions, government agencies, media, and the public.

Behavioural Competencies

The CHRO is expected to demonstrate:
Enhance Customer Experience: Service Orientation, Teamwork & Collaboration, Effective Communication, Embracing Reconciliation, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion.
Empower People and Ideas: Empowering Others, Influencing, Innovative Thinking, Accountability & Commitment.
Excel in Strategy and Operations: Planning & Organization, Analytical Thinking & Problem Solving, Strategic Orientation, Managing Change.

Why Saskatoon?

Saskatoon is a vibrant, friendly, and growing city with an exceptional quality of life, beautiful river valley, short commutes, thriving arts & food scene, and a strong sense of community.

To learn more about life in Saskatoon, click here: Life in Saskatoon

Join Us in Shaping the Future

If you are interested in the position, but don’t have all these qualifications – apply anyway.  All applicants will be considered with an emphasis on relevant experience, education, and applicable skills!