Human Resources Director (Chicago)

Company OverviewCXponent is a leading Tech Advisor supporting clients to develop and source technology products services that align with their goals and budget. Having recently partnered with Shore Capital Partners, known for rapidly scaling businesses, the organization is entering its next phase of growth and is seeking its first HR Director(Director of Talent and Culture) to join the team. This role will report directly to the Chief Financial Officer and plays a critical part in building and optimizing the firm's HR function.Core Responsibilities:As our first HR hire, working strategically and reporting to the CFO, you will be the architect and key driver of our people operations. You will transition us from a founder-led HR model to a scalable, professional department. This is a high-impact role requiring an ambitious and execution oriented A Player who can balance the tactical needs of HR Operations with the strategic demands of M&A integration and culture-building in a fast-paced PE environment.1. Change Management & M&A IntegrationLead the integration and evolution of our cultural values, along with HR operations (including benefits, compensation structures, and payroll / HR systems) for newly acquired teamsEnsure a seamless cultural transition for new employees, establishing and maintaining the CXponent Values across a growing organization.Lead the HR due diligence and post-merger integration (PMI) process for frequent acquisitions.2. Talent Acquisition & BrandingBuild a scalable recruiting engine to support rapid headcount growth, high talent density, and low turnoverDevelop an employer brand that positions CXponent as the premier destination for technology advisors.Implement rigorous hiring, onboarding and training standards to ensure we maintain and develop excellent talent.3. Performance & Talent ManagementDesign and implement an efficient and light-touch performance management framework rooted in our core values: GUIDE - Got Your Back, Understand the Goal, Iterate Relentlessly, Dig Deep, and Enjoy the Journey.Create clear career paths and development opportunities as the company scales.Ensure a feedback loop to leadership, ensuring a culture of radical candor,accountability, and 'truth seeking' to get to the right answer.Collaborate with Shore Capital and other stakeholders to develop manager and leadership training4. Total Rewards & OperationsManage all aspects of payroll, benefits administration, and HR compliance.Audit and select benefit providers that are competitive for mid-sized technology firms.Ensure HR systems (HRIS) are integrated with business tools and provide real-time data for leadership team, departmental and PE reporting.Ideal Experience and QualificationsProgressive HR Experience: 5+ years of experience with a variety of roles within the HR function, especially recruitment. SHRM Certification preferred.High Growth PE Experience: You have worked in a Private Equity-backed environment and understand the pace, reporting requirements, and focus on ROI.Builder Mindset: You are excited to be the first and enjoy setting up processes from scratch and iterating on them, rather than just operating within established frameworksStrategic & Tactical: You aren't afraid to run payroll on Monday and present an M&A integration strategy to the Executive Team on Tuesday.Driven & High-Stakes: You are a self-starter who views HR as a crucial function that drives business results, not just a back-office function.