Role Overview for VP Total Rewards & HR Strategy – Dallas, TX
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained to lead the search for a Vice President of Total Rewards & HR Strategy for our prestigious, high-growth client based in Dallas, Texas. This is a transformative leadership opportunity for a seasoned HR executive to design, implement, and lead a comprehensive total rewards philosophy and HR systems strategy that will attract, retain, and motivate top-tier talent in a competitive global market.
Reporting directly to the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), the VP of Total Rewards & HR Strategy will serve as a key member of the HR leadership team and a strategic partner to the executive suite. You will be the chief architect of our client’s employee value proposition (EVP), ensuring that all compensation, benefits, recognition, and wellness programs are not only market-competitive but also intrinsically aligned with the company’s culture, values, and long-term business objectives. This role demands a unique blend of analytical rigor, strategic foresight, and inspirational leadership. You will be responsible for creating a holistic program that aligns with the principles of WorldatWork’s Total Rewards Model, encompassing not just compensation and benefits, but also well-being, recognition, and career development. The ideal candidate is a data-driven innovator who can translate complex analytics into actionable strategies, communicate effectively with the Board of Directors’ Compensation Committee, and build a world-class function that scales with the company’s rapid growth.
This position is pivotal in shaping the future of the workforce. You will be at the helm of modernizing HR infrastructure, leveraging technology and data analytics to provide critical insights and drive informed decision-making across the organization. Your influence will extend beyond traditional rewards to encompass the entire HR technology stack, ensuring seamless integration and an exceptional employee experience. If you are a visionary leader passionate about building programs that fuel employee engagement and drive business success, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of VP Total Rewards & HR Strategy – Dallas, TX
Strategic Leadership & Vision
Develop, articulate, and execute a forward-thinking global total rewards and HR technology strategy that supports the company’s strategic plan. Serve as a trusted advisor to the CHRO and executive leadership on all related matters.
Compensation Design & Administration
Oversee the design, implementation, and management of all compensation programs, including base salary structures, short-term and long-term incentive plans, sales compensation, and equity programs. Ensure programs are competitive, equitable, and compliant.
Executive Compensation
Lead the design and administration of executive compensation packages. Prepare materials and analyses for the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors, working closely with the CHRO, CEO, and external consultants.
Benefits & Wellness Strategy
Direct the strategy, design, and administration of all employee health, welfare, retirement, and wellness programs. Continuously evaluate and innovate to provide a competitive benefits package that enhances employee well-being and security.
HR Technology & Analytics (HRIS)
Own the HR technology roadmap. Oversee the management and optimization of HR systems (e.g., Workday, SuccessFactors) to improve efficiency, data accuracy, and the overall employee and manager experience. Champion the use of people analytics to provide insights on workforce trends, program effectiveness, and ROI.
Market Intelligence & Benchmarking
Conduct comprehensive market analysis and benchmarking to ensure all total rewards programs remain competitive and responsive to industry trends. Build and maintain strong relationships with survey providers and consulting partners.
Compliance & Governance
Ensure all total rewards and HR systems practices are in strict compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations (e.g., FLSA, ERISA, ACA, pay equity laws). Oversee all required reporting and audits.
Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A)
Act as the HR lead for M&A activities, including due diligence, risk assessment, and the strategic integration of compensation, benefits, and HR systems for acquired entities.
Team Leadership & Development
Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing team of total rewards and HRIS professionals. Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the function.
Communication & Change Management
Develop and implement comprehensive communication strategies to educate employees and leaders on the value of total rewards programs. Lead change management efforts related to new program introductions or modifications.
Requirements for the VP Total Rewards & HR Strategy – Dallas, TX
Educational Background
Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is strongly preferred.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in Human Resources, with at least 8-10 years in a senior leadership role specifically focused on total rewards (compensation, benefits, executive compensation) and HR strategy.
Executive Compensation Expertise
Demonstrable experience working directly with a Board of Directors’ Compensation Committee in a publicly traded company is highly desirable.
Technical Proficiency
Deep expertise in compensation design, including salary structures, incentive plan modeling, and equity administration. Strong knowledge of benefits plan design, funding, and administration.
HRIS & Analytics Acumen
Proven experience leading an HRIS function and leveraging data analytics to inform strategy and measure outcomes. Experience with Tier 1 HRIS platforms (e.g., Workday, Oracle, SAP) is essential.
Leadership Skills
Exceptional leadership and team-building skills with a track record of developing and mentoring talent. Ability to lead through influence and build consensus across a diverse range of stakeholders.
Strategic & Analytical Mindset
A strategic thinker who can connect the dots between business goals and people strategy. Superior analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills with a keen attention to detail.
Communication Skills
Outstanding written, verbal, and presentation skills. Must be able to distill complex information into clear, concise messages for various audiences, including the C-suite and Board.
Certifications
Professional certifications such as Certified Compensation Professional (CCP), Certified Benefits Professional (CBP), or Certified Executive Compensation Professional (CECP) are highly valued.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive rewards package, including:
- An attractive base salary and a significant annual performance-based bonus.
- A compelling long-term incentive plan with meaningful equity participation.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage for employees and their families.
- A robust 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous company match.
- Generous paid time off (PTO), company holidays, and paid parental leave policies.
- Company-paid life insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage.
- Financial support for professional development, certifications, and continuing education.
- Holistic wellness programs, including an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and wellness incentives.
- Relocation assistance for qualified candidates moving to the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is proud to be the exclusive recruitment partner for this critical leadership role. If you are a dynamic and strategic total rewards leader ready to make a significant impact on a thriving organization, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this confidential search, please submit your resume and a compelling cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the role through our secure portal.
For more information about our expertise in placing top HR talent, please visit our HR executive search practice page. Our team will review all applications and contact qualified candidates directly. Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

