Director of Human Resources - Archdiocese of Indianapolis

Location: Downtown Indianapolis

Posted: March 5, 2026

The Archdiocese of Indianapolis is seeking a Director of Human Resources to lead the development and execution of strategies that attract, retain, and develop a highly qualified and mission‑driven workforce. This senior leader plays a pivotal role in supporting more than 5,000 employees serving in parishes, Catholic schools, and ministry agencies across central and southern Indiana.

About the Role

The Director provides strategic and hands‑on leadership across all human resources functions, including benefits, compensation, compliance, performance management, professional development, recruitment, and employee relations. This position partners closely with senior leadership to align people initiatives with the pastoral mission of the Church and ensures consistent, compliant, and service‑oriented HR practices across a diverse and decentralized ministry environment. The Director also oversees the Archdiocese’s safe‑environment programs, ensuring the protection of children and vulnerable adults and maintaining compliance with USCCB and CARA standards.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead the strategic direction and daily operations of the Office of Human Resources. 
- Establish and maintain standardized HR processes, policies, and data integrity. 
- Develop HR initiatives aligned with the archdiocesan pastoral plan. 
- Partner with senior leadership on staffing, recruiting, and retention strategies. 
- Monitor HR trends, best practices, and regulatory changes to guide leadership. 
- Provide policy interpretation and HR guidance to pastors, principals, and managers. 
- Ensure compliance with labor and employment laws in collaboration with General Counsel. 
- Design and manage competitive and cost‑effective benefit programs for lay employees and clergy. 
- Oversee compensation structures and advise on best practices for parishes and schools. 
- Contribute to annual budgeting with senior archdiocesan leadership. 
- Develop and deliver HR training for parish, school, and agency leaders. 
- Direct the safe‑environment program, including training, background checks, and audit compliance. 
- Support investigations of misconduct involving employees or volunteers. 
- Serve as the Qualified Lay Person for the Catholic Bishops Abuse Reporting System (CBARS). 
- Participate on the Archbishop’s Leadership Team and collaborate with department heads. 
- Lead, mentor, and develop the HR team. 

Qualifications

- Active, practicing Catholic in good standing. 
- Bachelor’s degree in HR, organizational development, business administration, or related field; master’s degree preferred. 
- Professional HR certification (SPHR, PHR, SHRM‑SCP, or SHRM‑CP). 
- Minimum 15 years of HR management experience. 
- Strong communication, leadership, and strategic‑thinking skills. 
- Deep knowledge of HR management and employment law. 
- Ability to navigate complex, emotionally sensitive situations with discretion and professionalism. 
- Commitment to the mission of the Catholic Church.

Working Conditions

- Primarily office‑based with extensive computer work. 
- Occasional evenings, weekends, and in‑state travel. 
- Regular handling of confidential information.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit a cover letter, résumé, and three professional references in confidence to Chris Walsh at cwalsh@archindy.org . The application deadline is April 7, 2026.