Director of Human Resources

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Director of Human Resources (HR) provides strategic leadership and operational oversight of all human resources functions for the university. Reporting to the Associate Vice President for Human Resources, the Director is responsible for shaping and implementing HR policies, procedures, and practices that support the institution’s mission, values, and long-term goals.

This position oversees key areas of human resources management, including talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, performance management, compliance, training and development, and HR information systems. The Director partners with academic and administrative leaders to promote a positive, inclusive, and high-performing work culture while ensuring legal and regulatory compliance.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of employment law, a collaborative management style, and a deep appreciation for the values of private higher education. The Director plays a pivotal role in attracting, retaining, and developing a diverse and engaged workforce that advances the university’s academic and operational objectives.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Strategic HR Leadership

o Develop and implement HR strategies aligned with the university’s mission, values, and long-term goals.

o Advise senior leadership on workforce planning, organizational development, and human capital trends.

o Promote a high-performance, inclusive, and service-oriented work culture.

2. Talent Acquisition and Onboarding

o Oversee recruitment, hiring, and onboarding processes for faculty, staff, and administrative positions.

o Ensure diversity, equity, and inclusion are embedded in hiring practices.

o Maintain compliance with employment regulations throughout the hiring process.

3. Employee Relations and Performance Management

o Serve as the primary resource for addressing employee relations matters, workplace conflicts, and grievances.

o Guide supervisors in handling corrective actions and performance improvement plans.

o Manage the annual performance evaluation process and support employee goal setting and development.

4. Compensation and Classification

o Manage job classification systems, salary structures, and position evaluations.

o Conduct market benchmarking and internal equity reviews.

o Collaborate with leadership to support strategic compensation decisions.

5. Benefits Administration

o Oversee the administration of employee benefits programs, including health, retirement, wellness, and leave plans.

o Coordinate annual open enrollment and ensure compliance with applicable laws (ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, etc.).

o Serve as liaison to benefit vendors and brokers.

6. Compliance and Policy Management

o Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws (e.g., FLSA, FMLA, EEO, ADA, Title IX).

o Maintain and update HR policies, handbooks, and procedures in consultation with legal counsel as needed.

o Respond to internal and external audits and regulatory reporting requirements.

7. Training and Development

o Design and implement employee training programs focused on compliance, management, and professional development.

o Support leadership development and succession planning initiatives.

o Promote a learning culture and continuous improvement across departments.

8. HR Systems and Data Management

o Oversee the HRIS system and ensure accurate and secure employee data.

o Generate HR metrics and reports to inform strategic decision-making.

o Continuously improve HR processes through technology and automation.

9. Supervision and Team Leadership

o Supervise HR staff, providing guidance, coaching, and performance feedback.

o Establish team goals, monitor progress, and foster a collaborative, service-oriented department culture.

o Ensure professional development opportunities for HR team members.

10. Campus Collaboration and Engagement

o Partner with academic and administrative units to address staffing needs, resolve HR issues, and implement best practices.

o Participate in