Human Resources Academy

The HR Academy is designed to strengthen Citywide HR capacity by building a shared standard of excellence, deepening operational and policy expertise, and advancing strategic leadership skills. The goal of the Academy is to equip HR professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to transition from transactional HR functions to strategic advisory roles that support agency performance and workforce sustainability.

Program Overview

The Human Resources Academy is a 12-week cohort-based program for up to 25 participants and focuses on three core areas:

• People: Developing, supporting, and empowering the workforce.
• Practice: Optimizing processes, operations, and service delivery.
• Policy: Navigating civil service rules, compliance mandates, and the political landscape.

The program runs one (1) full day per week from April 2026 to July 2026.

Who Should be Nominated?

Human Resources Academy nominees should be City employees who:

• Have been employed with City government for at least one (1) year;
• Are early to mid-career HR professionals with 3-5 years of HR experience;
• Have demonstrated a strong commitment to public service and aspire to positions of greater responsibility in the HR field.

How to Submit a Nomination Package?

Interested employees must complete the nomination package and be approved by their agency. Employees must submit nomination package via https://bit.ly/HRacad2026 by Tuesday, March 31, 2026 that includes:

• Nominee information
• Short written responses
• Signed manager information and statement of understanding
• Signed APO information and statement of understanding
• Signed Commissioner/Agency Head endorsement
• Updated resume

Selection Criteria/Process

A review panel from the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) evaluates nominations based on leadership potential and impact to their current role, commitment to public service, strong communication and collaboration skills and agency support.

The selection process includes an initial review of the nominees’ resumes, a group interview, followed by an individual interview.

Contact Us

If you have any questions about this program, please refer to our FAQ sheet. Should you have additional questions, email us at ExecutiveDevelopment@dcas.nyc.gov, or call 212-386-0004.