Head of People

About AIChE

AIChE, founded in 1908, is a professional society of more than 60,000 chemical engineers in 110 countries. Its members work in corporations, universities, and government, using their knowledge of chemical processes to develop safe and useful products for the benefit of society. AIChE fosters and disseminates chemical engineering knowledge, assists the professional and personal growth of its members, and applies the expertise of its members to address societal needs and improve the quality of life. Through its varied programs, AIChE continues to be a focal point for information exchange on the frontiers of chemical engineering research in such areas as energy, sustainability, biological and environmental engineering, nanotechnology, and chemical plant safety and security.

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced and people-centered Head of People to lead AIChE's human resources function. Reporting to Chief Executive Officer, the Head of People will shape and execute the organization's people strategy, spanning talent acquisition, culture, performance, compensation and benefits, and HR operations, ensuring AIChE attracts, develops, and retains the talent needed to deliver on its mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive people strategy aligned with AIChE's mission and long-term organizational goals.

• Own the employee lifecycle, from recruiting and onboarding through development and retention.

• Design and administer competitive compensation and benefits programs, ensuring internal equity and market alignment.

• Champion a culture of respect, integrity, and inclusion, including key initiatives and employee engagement programs.

• Oversee employee relations, including conflict resolution and performance issues, with sound judgment and discretion.

• Build and maintain HR policies, processes, and systems, including HRIS, that support a growing, geographically distributed team, and ensure compliance with employment law and regulatory requirements across all jurisdictions where AIChE operates.

• Partner with executive leadership and department heads on organizational design, workforce planning, and change management, using people metrics to inform decisions.

• Manage and develop direct report; oversee HR consultants and vendor/partner relationships (benefits brokers, payroll, etc.); own the HR department budget.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree or SHRM/HRCI certification preferred.

• 10+ years of progressive HR experience, including at least 3 years in a senior HR leadership role.

• Demonstrated success building or scaling HR functions, ideally in a nonprofit, association, or membership organization.

• Strong knowledge of compensation design, benefits administration, and employment law.

• Experience managing HR operations for a distributed or multi-location workforce.

• Excellent judgment and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust and influence without direct authority.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance

• Employer-paid life insurance and disability coverage

• Paid time off, including vacation, sick time, and personal days

• Retirement plan with employer matching contributions

• Flexible Spending Accounts (Healthcare and Dependent Care)

• Pre-tax commuter benefits

• Tuition reimbursement and professional development support

Compensation

The salary range for this position is $170,000–$190,000, commensurate with experience.

Work Environment

This is a hybrid position requiring two days per week on-site in AIChE's Financial District office in New York City, with the remainder worked remotely. Some travel may be required.

The American Institute of Chemical Engineers is an Equal Opportunity Employer.