Director, Human Resources & Operations

Department

BSD SUR - Administration

About the Department

Operating since 1927 on a strong foundation of multidisciplinary clinical and academic excellence, the University of Chicago Department of Surgery's mission is to meet the most challenging and complex health problems on both a local and global scale.

Many of our faculty members are known for their contributions to the advancement of groundbreaking surgical procedures and techniques, including minimally invasive surgery. In addition to our department's clinical work, our scientists pursue a diverse range of basic, translational, and clinical research projects, including studies on the gut microbiome, tissue bioengineering, stem cell research, cancer, and immunotolerance.

This ongoing work and achievement would not be possible without the cohesive effort and commitment of the faculty and staff. We are looking for high energy, collaborative individuals who share our commitment to improving the health of patients in the community and beyond.

Job Summary

Working with the Executive Administrator, the Director of Human Resources & Operations directs a full range of programs ensuring that the organization is in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Partners closely with senior department leadership regarding personnel functions through management of a comprehensive human resources administration including performance management, recruitment, employee relations, benefits management and counseling, compensation and salary administration, job evaluations, organizational and talent development.

Leads-through-example a workplace culture of empathy, approachability, creative problem-solving, customer service, accountability, and individual growth. Handles sensitive, interpersonal interactions in a complex political environment and acts as a primary liaison for human resources with the Department and Biological Sciences Division, Office of Legal Counsel, Office of Access and Equity, and Office of Equal Opportunities Programs.

Demonstrates professional presence and consistently uses sound judgment that instills credibility and builds trust and collaborative relationships across all levels of Department of Surgery and Neurological Surgery faculty, staff, and leadership.

Responsibilities

Strategy and Development

• Contributes to the enhancement of the quality of the work environment within the University by advising and leading the implementation of various programs and services, managing complex projects, including maintaining operations and processing systems, communicating relevant information about programs and services to all levels of management throughout the department, working with consultants and vendors, interpreting policies and procedures, state and federal laws, and working with advisory committees to conduct studies analyzing the pros and cons of new and alternative initiatives.

• Assists and advises leadership in developing and implementing strategic staffing plans and section development.

• Designs, builds, and directs workforce succession planning.

• Promotes a positive image of the University by participating in work groups and adhoc committees, as well as national, state, and local professional associations.

• Supervises, trains, develops, and mentors the Human Resources and Surgery Administration team.

• Establishes performance goals for departmental Human Resources & Academic Affairs Office along with Surgery Administration.

• Provides guidance and mentorship to fellow leaders including Directors and Section Administrators.

Employee Relations

• Coaches and trains the senior leadership team on performance management.

• Manages sensitive staff and faculty employee relations investigations.

• Oversees and approves staff termination process in partnership with Employee &Labor Relations.

• Develops and implements mitigation, performance improvement, and corrective action plans for staff and faculty.

Recruitment

• Directs the recruitment, selection, assignment, transfer, and promotion of all staff employees.

• Reviews all position control requests for feasibility and appropriate expense management.

• Identifies opportunities for cost reduction of staff postings.

• Contributes to a work environment that encourages knowledge of, respect for, and development of skills to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds.

• Works closely with the Director of Provider Services on credentialing and re-credentialing materials for staff and faculty.

Compensation and Compliance

• Completes annual staff compensation