Human Resources Specialist

We are seeking an experienced Human Resources Specialist to join a growing organization in Toronto, Ontario. This role is ideal for an HR professional who is passionate about supporting employees, partnering with leadership, and driving people-focused initiatives that foster a positive and high-performing workplace. The successful candidate will play a key role in employee relations, performance management, benefits administration, HR systems, and ensuring compliance with employment legislation while contributing to the organization's overall people strategy.

Responsibilities

Lead and mentor a human resources team, ensuring daily activities support broader people strategies and organizational goals. Act as a trusted advisor to leaders and staff by providing practical guidance on workplace policies, employment legislation, performance concerns, attendance management, and organizational structure. Develop and facilitate learning initiatives, including workshops and training sessions covering key HR topics and annual performance review processes. Drive employee engagement and retention initiatives that promote a positive, inclusive, and productive workplace culture. Review, update, and maintain HR policies, employee handbook content, and related procedures to ensure compliance and continuous improvement. Coach managers and employees on performance management, goal setting, career development, succession planning, and training opportunities. Ensure employee records are maintained accurately and that all personnel changes are processed in a timely manner. Collaborate with internal systems teams to manage HRIS updates, system enhancements, issue resolution, testing, and implementation of new functionality. Manage disability and leave administration, including claims coordination, return-to-work planning, and communication with third-party providers, payroll, and leadership. Support compensation and benefits administration by preparing market surveys, analyzing compensation trends, and responding to employee benefit inquiries.

Requirements

Undergraduate degree or diploma in Human Resources Management or a related field. Minimum of 12 years of progressive Human Resources experience in a fast-paced environment, with strong expertise in employee relations, performance management, and disability case management. Thorough knowledge of employment legislation and HR best practices. Hands-on experience with Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS); experience with ADP Workforce Now or similar platforms is strongly preferred. Experience supporting benefits administration, payroll coordination, training delivery, and day-to-day HR operations. Previous experience within real estate development or asset management is considered an asset. CHRP designation, or active progress toward obtaining it, is preferred.