Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

About Us

SWBR is a nationally recognized design firm with expertise in architecture, interior design, structural engineering, landscape architecture, graphic design, planning and civil engineering. Since our founding in 1969, the focus of our expertise and most of our current work supports education, housing, and workplace design.

We are proud of the diverse range of backgrounds, personalities, and passions that make up our team. But for all our differences, we’re united by a core mission: to positively impact lives through meaningful design.

With 100+ professionals, we are headquartered in Rochester, New York with offices in Troy, Syracuse, and Buffalo, New York.

We are currently seeking a full-time Chief People Officer. This position would be based in our Rochester office. The incumbent of this position will be a key executive leader responsible for developing and executing the firm’s HR strategy, talent initiatives, and cultural vision. This role requires a dynamic, people-centric leader who can effectively balance strategic HR planning with hands-on execution. You will oversee all aspects of talent acquisition, employee relations, DEI initiatives, HR operations, and leadership development, ensuring the firm remains an employer of choice in the industry.

Job Duties

• Develop and implement a comprehensive HR strategy aligned with the firm’s business goals and long-term growth.
• Lead talent acquisition, workforce planning, and succession strategies to attract and retain top-tier professionals.
• Champion a positive, high-performance culture that fosters collaboration, engagement, and professional development.
• Oversee compensation, benefits, and HRIS systems (ADP is the primary platform—prior experience is preferred but can be learned).
• Advise and collaborate with senior leadership and department heads on organizational development, leadership training, and employee engagement.
• Drive DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives, ensuring a workplace culture that embraces diversity and innovation.
• Ensure HR compliance with employment laws, industry regulations, and best practices across multiple locations.
• Use HR analytics and workforce planning tools to make data-driven decisions and improve operational efficiency.
• Lead change management and employee communications related to business transformations, mergers, or restructuring efforts.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive HR leadership experience, with at least 5 years in a senior executive HR role (CHRO, VP of HR, or equivalent).
• Strong background in architecture, design, engineering, or professional services, where culture and talent retention are key drivers of success.
• Bachelor’s degree required (Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field); master’s degree or HR certifications (SPHR, SHRM-SCP) preferred.
• Experience advising and influencing executive leadership on HR strategies, workforce planning, and change management.

Expertise

• Ability to develop and execute long-term HR strategies that enhance engagement, retention, and workforce planning.
• Experience leading HR teams and mentoring professionals in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Proven track record of cultural transformation and fostering inclusive, high-performance workplaces.
• Expertise in New York State employment law, compliance, and multi-state HR management.
• Strong background in compensation structures, benefits administration, and employee performance management.
• Ability to analyze HR metrics and workforce trends to support business decision-making.
• ADP experience preferred; willingness to learn and optimize HRIS and payroll systems.
• Familiarity with HR technology, talent acquisition platforms, and employee engagement tools.

Base Salary Information: $150,000 - $175,000 per year

The above salary ranges represent a good faith range for incumbents of these positions. Actual offers will be based on experience, education level, and demonstrated skills and will be at the discretion of the employer.

We actively support professional development, including steps towards licensure and/or related accreditations, as a benefit of employment. SWBR offers an outstanding compensation and benefits package and provides a creative environment. Applicants interested in joining a progressive, energetic and family-friendly firm that rewards hard-working team players and offers unlimited growth potential in a multi-studio design setting should view our website at to apply.

SWBR is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Veterans and Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

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