Human Resources Business Partner

Job Posting Location:

Claremont, CA

Job Posting Title:

Human Resources Business Partner

Job Description:

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:

Pomona College offers a collaborative and values-driven workplace where teamwork, respect, and a shared commitment to excellence are at the heart of what we do. As part of this culture, the Human Resources Business Partner (HRBP) plays a vital role in fostering trusted relationships, delivering thoughtful HR solutions, and driving strategic initiatives in partnership with College leaders.

Reporting to the Assistant Vice President, Human Resources/CHRO, the HRBP will support the Office of the Treasurer and the Advancement Division, aligning HR strategies and services with operational goals. This role serves as a key liaison to the departments they support, requiring strong communication skills, excellent customer service, and the ability to develop productive and collaborative business partnerships. The position supports a union-represented environment, and experience with collective bargaining environments and bilingual (English/Spanish) skills are highly desired.

The HRBP contributes to the development and implementation of HR practices that align with College-wide goals and values, while also managing the day-to-day needs of staff and managers in areas such as employee relations, workforce planning, recruitment, policy interpretation, and continuous improvement.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Reporting directly to the Assistant Vice President, Human Resources/CHRO, the HR Business Partner works independently and collaboratively to perform the following essential duties and responsibilities:
• Build and sustain effective, collaborative, and customer-oriented partnerships with leaders and staff in the Office of the Treasurer and the Advancement Division.
• Serve as a trusted HR advisor by providing strategic guidance on workforce planning, organizational development, and policy application that aligns with institutional priorities.
• Provide timely, accurate data and analysis to the Assistant Vice President, Human Resources/CHRO to inform decision-making and strategic planning.
• Collaborate with the Finance Department and Budget Office to ensure HR-related resource needs align with budgetary parameters and College policy.
• Partner with departments on strategic staffing plans, proactively support recruitment efforts, and ensure talent pipelines align with divisional needs and College diversity goals.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for managers on employee performance and attendance concerns, offering coaching and guidance that encourages effective resolution.
• Provide guidance on employee relations and workplace culture, consulting with the Assistant Vice President, Human Resources/CHRO on complex matters as needed.
• Offer practical, legally sound advice on employment-related issues, including labor relations matters, and represent HR in meetings with employees and union representatives.
• Participate in third-party hearings and investigations, and support formal grievance or disciplinary processes, when necessary.
• Support departments in leading and navigating organizational change, promoting a culture of adaptability and innovation.
• Partner with managers to identify training needs and recommend or coordinate appropriate professional development initiatives.
• Guide employees and supervisors through leave processes, including workers’ compensation, disability accommodations, and return-to-work planning.
• Lead and contribute to campus-wide HR projects and initiatives aligned with strategic goals.
• Maintain the highest professional standards in all HR functions, ensuring confidentiality, compliance, and service excellence.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Assistant Vice President, Human Resources/CHRO.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in business administration, human resources, liberal arts, or equivalent combination of education and experience required.
• Licenses/Certificates: A valid driver's license or reliable transportation for off-site meetings is required.
• SPHR with California designation is preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 4–5 years of HR management or generalist experience. Project management and experience working in a unionized environment highly preferred.

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