Senior Human Resources Business Partner

Job Posting Location:

Claremont, CA

Job Posting Title:

Senior Human Resources Business Partner

Job Description:

Senior Human Resources Business Partner

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ABOUT POMONA COLLEGE:  Located near Los Angeles, California, Pomona College is widely regarded as one of the nation's premier liberal arts colleges. Established in 1887, Pomona College is known for small classes, a challenging curriculum, close relationships between students and faculty, and a range of student research and leadership opportunities. Pomona is a member of The Claremont Colleges.

JOB PURPOSE:  The Senior Human Resources Business Partner (HRBP) plays a critical role in aligning people strategies with Pomona College’s goals. This on-site position acts as a trusted consultant and strategic advisor to senior leaders and managers, ensuring that HR efforts support institutional priorities, foster a strong campus culture, and enhance the employee experience. Reporting to the Assistant Vice President for Human Resources / CHRO, the Senior HRBP partners with departments and divisions across the College to lead and support initiatives in workforce planning, employee relations, labor relations, organizational development, and change management. The ideal candidate is collaborative, systems-oriented, and proactive, comfortable navigating complexity and committed to continuous improvement. This position also provides support for labor negotiations and implementation of collective bargaining agreements, playing a key role in maintaining a fair and respectful work environment for all employees.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Working independently and collaboratively, the Senior HRBP performs the following key responsibilities:

1.    Build and sustain strong relationships with managers and staff in assigned areas to support HR integration, strategy alignment, and a positive workplace culture.

2.    Serve as the acting lead for the Human Resources Office in the absence of the Assistant Vice President for Human Resources / CHRO.
3.    Ensure HR strategies and services are aligned with operational goals and implemented effectively across assigned areas.
4.    Interpret and support administration of collective bargaining agreements and the Staff Handbook.
5.    Serve as second chair during labor negotiations, coordinate union meetings, and track related data including release time and committee coordination.
6.    Provide actionable insights and reports to the Assistant Vice President/CHRO to support workforce planning and decision-making.
7.    Coordinate resource planning and hiring processes in partnership with the Budget Office and Finance Department, ensuring alignment with policy and budget.
8.    Forecast and respond to staffing needs, helping departments proactively plan for recruitment and workforce changes.
9.    Provide front-line support for employee performance, attendance, and workplace behavior issues, ensuring timely and effective resolution.
10.    Advise managers on employee relations matters, escalating complex cases as needed.
11.    Stay current on employment laws and offer guidance on compliance, workplace disputes, and policy interpretation.
12.    Support external processes, including hearings and investigations, and maintain accurate documentation in coordination with the CHRO.
13.    Champion organizational change efforts, helping departments navigate transitions and continuous improvement efforts.
14.    Collaborate on training plans and assess professional development needs across assigned areas.
15.    Support employee leaves and accommodations including workers’ compensation, disability, and ADA processes.
16.    Lead or contribute to HR projects that support institutional priorities and employee success.
17.    Maintain the highest standards of professionalism, confidentiality, and integrity in all HR activities.
18.    Perform other duties as assigned in support of department and College-wide goals.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in business administration, human resources, liberal arts, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND CRITICAL SKILLS: The successful candidate will demonstrate the following:

1.    Strategic thinking and ability to align HR practices with institutional goals.
2.    Excellent collaboration skills, with a track record of building trusted relationships across all levels.
3.    Strong systems acumen, including experience with HRIS platforms such as Workday and use of data to inform decision-making.
4.    Fluent communication skills, including verbal, w