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# Chief Human Resources Officer with a Public Utilities Co. – Denver, CO



JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm, has been exclusively retained to lead the search for a transformative Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) on behalf of a well-established and respected Public Utilities Company based in Denver, Colorado. Our client is a cornerstone of the region’s infrastructure, dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and sustainable energy services to millions of customers. As they navigate a dynamic industry landscape marked by technological innovation, regulatory shifts, and a commitment to clean energy, they are seeking a visionary HR leader to architect and execute a human capital strategy that will power their future success.
This is a rare opportunity to join a stable, mission-driven organization at a pivotal moment in its history. The CHRO will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer. You will be more than an HR leader; you will be a strategic business partner, a culture champion, and a trusted advisor to the CEO and the Board of Directors. The ideal candidate will bring a blend of strategic foresight, operational excellence, and deep expertise in labor relations to steer the company’s most valuable asset—its people—through an era of significant growth and change. You will be responsible for fostering a culture of safety, innovation, and inclusivity, ensuring the organization can attract, develop, and retain the top-tier talent needed to meet the evolving demands of the energy sector.
Role Overview for Chief Human Resources Officer with a Public Utilities Co. – Denver, CO
The Chief Human Resources Officer is the principal architect of the company’s people strategy. This executive is responsible for the vision, leadership, and governance of the entire human resources function. The role demands a strategic leader who can seamlessly integrate HR initiatives with the company’s core business objectives, ensuring that all aspects of human capital management—from talent acquisition to labor relations—are aligned to drive organizational performance and long-term value. You will be tasked with building a modern, data-driven HR organization that anticipates future workforce needs, mitigates risk, and fosters a high-performance, engaged culture. In a sector defined by its critical importance to the community and its complex operational and regulatory environment, the CHRO will play a central role in shaping an agile, resilient, and forward-thinking workforce. This includes championing robust diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, spearheading leadership development and succession planning for critical roles, and ensuring the company remains an employer of choice in a competitive market.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Human Resources Officer with a Public Utilities Co. – Denver, CO
Executive Leadership & Strategy
Serve as a strategic partner to the CEO and executive team, translating business strategy into a comprehensive human capital plan. Provide expert counsel on all people-related issues, including organizational design, change management, and workforce planning.
Talent Management & Acquisition
Develop and lead a sophisticated talent management strategy that encompasses recruitment, onboarding, performance management, succession planning, and employee retention. Build a robust talent pipeline to meet the company’s current and future needs, with a focus on critical technical and leadership roles.
Labor Relations
Act as the chief spokesperson and lead negotiator in collective bargaining with union representatives. Cultivate a constructive and collaborative relationship with labor partners, manage the grievance and arbitration process, and ensure compliance with all collective bargaining agreements.
Total Rewards Strategy
Design, implement, and manage a competitive and equitable total rewards program, including executive compensation, broad-based pay structures, incentive plans, health and wellness benefits, and retirement programs. Ensure programs are aligned with market trends and support the company’s strategic goals.
Organizational Culture & Employee Engagement
Champion initiatives that strengthen the company’s culture of safety, integrity, and customer service. Utilize employee feedback, surveys, and other data to develop targeted programs that enhance employee engagement, morale, and productivity.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive DEI strategy that is woven into all aspects of the employee lifecycle. Foster an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and have an equal opportunity to succeed.
HR Operations & Technology
Oversee the HR operations team, ensuring the efficient delivery of HR services, including payroll, HRIS management, and benefits administration. Leverage technology and data analytics to drive insights, improve processes, and measure the effectiveness of HR initiatives. The ideal candidate will be a thought leader, staying current with the latest trends and best practices in human resources to drive innovation and excellence.
Compliance & Risk Management
Ensure the company’s full compliance with all federal, state, and local employment, labor, and benefits laws and regulations. Develop and implement HR policies and procedures that mitigate risk and protect the organization.
Requirements for the Chief Human Resources Officer with a Public Utilities Co. – Denver, CO
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Industrial Relations, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree (MBA, MS in HR, etc.) is highly preferred.
Professional Certification
SHRM-SCP, SPHR, or other relevant senior-level HR certifications are strongly desired.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in human resources, with at least 7 years in a senior HR leadership role (e.g., Vice President of HR, CHRO) overseeing all facets of the function for a complex organization.
Industry Background
Significant experience within the public utilities, energy, manufacturing, or a similar capital-intensive, heavily regulated, and unionized industry is essential for success in this role.
Labor Relations Expertise
Demonstrated, hands-on experience as a chief negotiator in collective bargaining is a firm requirement. Must possess deep knowledge of labor law and a proven ability to build effective relationships with union leadership.
Strategic Acumen
Proven ability to think strategically and translate business objectives into actionable HR initiatives. Experience serving as a trusted advisor to C-suite executives and a Board of Directors.
Leadership & Influence
Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to inspire, develop, and manage a high-performing HR team. Must possess strong executive presence and the ability to influence and build consensus across all levels of the organization.
Communication Skills
Superior interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex concepts clearly and persuasively to a variety of audiences.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive executive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain a top-caliber leader. This includes:

An executive-level base salary and significant annual performance-based bonus potential.
A long-term incentive plan (e.g., equity, phantom stock) tied to the company’s success.
A comprehensive benefits package, including premium medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents.
A robust retirement savings program, including a 401(k) plan with a generous company match and potentially a pension plan.
Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays.
Relocation assistance for the selected candidate, if required.
Commitment to professional growth with support for continuing education, executive coaching, and industry conference attendance.

How to Apply
JRG Partners is proud to lead this exclusive search on behalf of our client. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the strictest confidentiality. To be considered for this pivotal leadership opportunity, please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter detailing your qualifications and interest in the role. For more information about our specialized recruitment services, please visit JRG Partners’ Human Resources Executive Search practice.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.