Executive Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer (EVP, CHRO)

Job Location: Livermore, CA

Hiring salary range: $300,000.00 - $400,000.00 annually

Position Summary

Fremont Bank — one of the Bay Area’s most respected and long-standing financial institutions — is seeking a strategic, hands-on professional to join and help advance our Human Resources team. This is a high-impact opportunity to contribute to the success of a mission-driven organization committed to excellence, community service, and strong client relationships. If you're energized by purpose-driven work, collaboration, and delivering meaningful results, we’d love to connect.

Why Fremont Bank?

Founded in 1964, Fremont Bank is one of the oldest independently owned banks in the Bay Area and has been consistently recognized as a Top Workplace for the past 15 consecutive years. Our foundation is built on relationships — with our clients, our associates, and our communities.

• A people-first culture grounded in inclusion and excellence
• Deep community involvement and local reinvestment
• A mission-driven workplace where values and performance go hand in hand
• The Fremont Bank Way
• Full-Service Banking with comprehensive financial solutions, advanced technology, and exceptional service
• No-Compromise Approach — we help clients get to 'yes'

Core Values:

• Go above and beyond for clients
• Foster a supportive and empowering environment for associates
• Deeply invest in the well-being of our local community

Position Overview

The Executive Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer (EVP, CHRO) is a pivotal member of the executive leadership team, responsible for providing strategic direction and leadership in all aspects of Human Resources Management across the Bank. Reporting directly to the President, the EVP, CHRO oversees the development and implementation of HR strategies, policies, and programs to drive Bank success, foster a high-performance culture, and ensure the attraction, retention, and development of top talent.

Role and Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership:

Collaborate with the President and other members of the executive team to develop and execute the Bank’s overall strategic plan. Lead the development and implementation of HR strategies aligned with the Bank’s Mission, Vision, and Objectives. Provide expert guidance on Bank’s culture, work environment, workforce planning, and succession management to support long-term growth and sustainability.

Talent Acquisition and Retention:

Oversee all aspects of Talent Acquisition, including recruitment, selection, and onboarding processes, ensuring the Bank attracts and retains high-caliber talent. Develop comprehensive workforce plans to address current and future talent needs, including strategies for talent development, retention, and succession planning. Implement effective employer branding initiatives to enhance the Bank’s reputation as an employer of choice.

Associate Development and Engagement:

Design and implement programs to foster associate engagement, satisfaction, and retention, including performance management, career development, and recognition initiatives. Provide leadership and guidance to the HR team in delivering training and development programs to enhance associate skills and capabilities. Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives to create a culture of belonging and respect within the Bank.

Total Rewards Management:

Develop and manage competitive compensation and benefits programs to attract, motivate, and retain associates. Oversee the design and administration of associate benefit plans, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and industry best practices. Partner with finance and other stakeholders to analyze and optimize total rewards investments in alignment with business objectives.

HR Operations and Compliance:

Ensure effective HR operations and systems are in place to support day-to-day HR functions, including HRIS, and associate records management. Develop and implement HR policies and procedures in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, as well as industry standards and best practices. Monitor and assess HR metrics and analytics to identify trends, measure the effectiveness of HR programs, and drive continuous improvement. Conduct objective and thorough investigations of associate complaints and concerns.

Organizational Culture and Change Management:

Promote a positive organizational culture that aligns with the Bank’s values and fosters innovation, collaboration, and high performance. Lead change management initiatives to support the Bank’s transformation efforts and restructuring activities. Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on Bank’s effectiveness and associate relations matters.

Lead Human Resources Team

Provide leadership and direction for ~15 HR associates in the areas of Talent Management, Talent Acquisition, Talent Development and Total Rewards.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Proven experience in senior leadership roles, with a focus on Human Resources Management and strategic planning.
• Strong understanding of Human Resources principles, practices, and regulations, with a track record of driving Bank’s effectiveness and associate engagement.
• Excellent leadership and management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams to achieve high performance and results.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage and influence stakeholders at all levels of the Bank.
• Strategic mindset and analytical capabilities, with the ability to think critically, anticipate challenges, and develop innovative solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, with a commitment to fostering positive partnerships and effective working relationships.
• Knowledge of corporate governance principles and experience supporting board-level activities preferred.
• Professional certifications such as SPHR, SHRM-SCP, or equivalent are a plus.

What Makes Fremont Bank Associates Thrive?

• Team Players who go above and beyond to support their colleagues
• Action-Oriented professionals who challenge the status quo and seek improvement
• Purpose-Driven individuals who understand and champion the bank’s community impact

Benefits Snapshot

Health & Wellness

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA, Dependent Care, Health Savings)

Financial & Retirement

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• 401(k) with employer match
• Performance-based bonuses or incentives

Work-Life & Perks

• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick time
• Free personal checking and savings accounts
• Home loan rate discounts
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development resources
• On-site gym and discounted health club memberships
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Equal Opportunity Employer

Fremont Bank is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected classification.

Salary Range

The hiring salary range for this position is $300,000.00 - $400,000.00 annually, based on factors such as experience, skills, education, and internal equity. Compensation decisions are made in consideration of these factors and in alignment with Fremont Bank’s compensation philosophy.

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

The Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) is a way for Fremont Bank to contribute to the financial well-being of associates by making a contribution to their retirement account. In addition, the ESOP provides associates an opportunity to share in the growth and prosperity of Fremont Bank.

Note to Search Firms:

Fremont Bank does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms or agencies without a signed service agreement. Unsolicited resumes will be considered the property of Fremont Bank, and no fees will be paid.