HR and IDEA Manager

Geva Theatre, a LORT B regional theatre in the heart of Rochester, NY with an annual operating budget of $8.5 million, seeks an experienced Human Resources (HR) and Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Access and Anti-Racism (IDEA) Manager to lead our efforts in these critical areas.

Reporting to the Executive Director and working closely with the senior leadership team, this new, full-time exempt position will play a crucial role in building, managing, and advancing the organization’s HR processes and functions. The position will administer benefits, process payroll, ensure compliance with employment laws, and oversee IDEA strategy and training.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Recruitment and Talent Management:
• Develop inclusive recruitment strategies to attract diverse talent and manage the recruitment process.
• Ensure fair and unbiased hiring practices and support employee development and career growth.
• Oversee onboarding processes to create a welcoming and accessible experience for new hires.
2. Employee Relations and Engagement:
• Foster a positive work environment by enhancing employee engagement and satisfaction.
• Address complex employee relations issues, including conflict resolution and disciplinary actions.
• Conduct surveys and feedback sessions to monitor employee morale and implement improvements.
3. IDEA Strategy Development and Implementation:
• Develop and execute IDEA strategies and initiatives that align with the company's mission, values, and anti-racism commitments.
• Promote an inclusive and equitable work environment through targeted programs, policies, and practices.
• Implement and manage employee resource groups, diversity training, and other IDEA-related activities.
4. Payroll and Benefits Administration
• Process weekly payroll for all full-time, seasonal, part-time, and contracted employees.
• Onboard new employees through ADP benefits enrollment.
• Oversee annual benefits renewal and manage relationships with benefits representatives.
5. Compliance and Policy Management:
• Ensure compliance with New York State and federal employment laws and regulations.
• Develop and update HR policies and procedures to reflect legal requirements and best practices.
• Conduct regular audits to ensure adherence to policies and mitigate risks.
6. Unemployment Claims Processing:

• Manage unemployment claims, including documentation and communication with state agencies.
• Represent the company in unemployment hearings as needed.

1. Training and Development:
• Identify training needs and coordinate professional development opportunities for employees.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of training programs and adjust as necessary.
2. HR Data and Reporting:
• Maintain accurate and confidential employee records and HRIS data.
• Prepare and analyze HR and IDEA-related reports, including diversity metrics and employee engagement levels.
• Use data insights to drive strategic decisions and improve HR and IDEA practices.

Desired traits in a successful candidate:

• Demonstrated experience in HR, with a focus on compliance, benefits, and employee relations.
• Proven experience in managing IDEA programs and fostering an inclusive work environment.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and integrity.
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
• Professional certification (e.g., SHRM-CP, PHR) preferred.
• Strong knowledge of federal and New York State employment laws.
• Proficiency in HRIS, payroll systems (ADP preferred), and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience in non-profit performing arts is a plus.

• Exhibit empathy, kindness, diplomacy, and humor in the workplace

Geva Theatre is dedicated to creating and producing singular theatre productions and programs that serve the Rochester region and beyond, by illuminating the fullness of our many human experiences. As Rochester’s flagship professional theatre, Geva is one of the most attended regional theatres in New York State. Geva operates two venues – the 516-seat Elaine P. Wilson Stage and the 180-seat Ron & Donna Fielding Stage.

Critical to Geva Theatre’s core values is an institutional culture of dignity, trust, and mutual respect. We are committed to upholding the principles of inclusion, diversity, equity, accessibility, and anti-racism in recruitment of staff in all departments. To that end, for all employment opportunities, we actively encourage applications from women, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ individuals, individuals with disabilities and all other identities and legally protected classes. Geva Theatre is an equal opportunity employer. All are welcome here.

Salary and benefits commensurate with experience ranging from $65,000-$75,000.

To apply, please submit a cover letter that addresses your experience and how you see your work aligning with Geva’s values, a resume, and three professional references.