Director of Human Resources

Ballyhoo Hospitality is seeking a qualified, experienced Director of Human Resources to drive the human resource operation and culture for our growing, multi-concept restaurant group in the Chicago area. This is a critical development role responsible for translating our core values— hospitality and dedicated teamwork —into effective HR strategies that support over 900 employees across 13+ concepts (with more planned).

The Director of Human Resources will act as a strategic partner, responsible for administering the day-to-day HR functions while focusing on lo ng-term talent acquisition, employee development, and cultural health.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary Range: Competitive salary commensurate with experience.

• Benefits: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision package; generous Paid Time Off (PTO); dining perks; and 401(k).

• Reporting: Reports directly to the VP and Executive Team.

Essential Functions and Strategic Responsibilities

The HR Director will carry out the following duties, visibly demonstrating an atmosphere of open communication, teamwork, and the utmost confidentiality. This role is an office-based position at Ballyhoo Hospitality Headquarters and requires regular on-site presence across all restaurant locations to build trust and assess operational needs.

Strategic Leadership and Development

• Strategic Planning: Design, implement, and own the long-term HR strategy, focusing on organizational infrastructure to support rapid company growth.

• Performance Management: Design, implement, and lead the full performance management cycle, including annual evaluations, goal setting, and career pathing for both exempt and non-exempt employees.

• Onboarding: Support and execute scalable selection strategies for all positions, focusing on reducing turnover and building a robust talent pipeline.

Compliance and Employee Relations

• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all local (Chicago ordinances), state (Illinois), and federal regulations (FMLA, FLA, COBRA/HIPPA) are strictly followed.

• Policy Management: Enforce, develop, and revise restaurant and employee policies, ensuring clarity, respect, and fairness in all disciplinary and performance counseling actions.

• Risk & Safety: Support Worker's Compensation and compliance programs. Implement and oversee safety training initiatives appropriate for the restaurant environment.

Administration and Culture

• HRIS/Benefits Administration: Coordinate and ensure accurate administration of all employee benefit programs. Oversee the accurate use of the HRIS/Payroll system to ensure data integrity.

• Culture & Communication: Plan and execute company-wide employee communications, manage the employee orientation process, and actively participate in weekly managers' meetings to foster alignment with company values.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources or a related field, or equivalent practical experience required.

• Experience: 5+ years of progressive HR experience, with at least 2 years in a management or leadership capacity. Prior HR experience in the multi-unit hospitality or restaurant industry is strongly preferred.

• Technical Skills: Proven expertise with HR Information Systems (HRIS) and payroll administration (experience with HR/Payroll or similar systems is highly desirable).

• Soft Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, exceptional proficiency in employee relations, and proven supervision of staff and project management required.

• Compliance Knowledge: Deep knowledge of Illinois and Chicago employment laws and ordinances.