HR Business Partner (Hybrid)

About the College, School, or Department

As Cornell University’s online learning unit, eCornell delivers online professional certificate courses to individuals and organizations around the world. Courses are personally developed by Cornell faculty with expertise in a wide range of topics, including data analytics, management, marketing, human resources, leadership, and STEM. Students learn in an interactive, small cohort format to gain skills they can immediately apply in their organizations, while earning a professional certificate from Cornell University. eCornell has offered online learning courses and certificate programs for 15 years to over 130,000 students at more than 2,000 companies.

About the Office or Unit

The eCornell Human Resources team is committed to crafting innovative solutions for our predominantly hybrid/remote workforce of over 900 employees. Serving as a strategic partner to eCornell leadership, we focus on implementing impactful HR initiatives that attract, develop, and retain a diverse and talented workforce. Our dynamic team thrives on collaboration, creativity, and a shared commitment to excellence.

The Opportunity

While position responsibilities vary, every member of our community is expected to foster a culture of belonging and a psychologically healthy work environment by communicating across differences; being cooperative, collaborative, open, and welcoming; showing respect, compassion, and empathy; engaging and supporting others regardless of background or perspective; speaking up when others are being excluded or treated inappropriately; and supporting work/life integration of oneself and others.

In this role, the HR Business Partner (HRBP) will work closely with the HR Director to administer eCornell’s vision, mission, and goals. Key responsibilities include delivering HR services in organizational design, retention, compensation and classification, performance management, employee relations, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The HRBP will emphasize DEI in every aspect of HR work, collaborating with the HR Director to lead and mentor the HR team, ensuring effective training, consistent practices, and compliance with Cornell policies. Additionally, the HRBP will assess HR initiatives to align with eCornell’s priorities, creating a supportive and inclusive environment.

The HRBP plays a pivotal role in our HR function, driving excellence and making a meaningful impact within our organization. This position is essential for creating a thriving workplace where every employee can succeed and contribute to eCornell’s mission.

As an HR Business Partner, you will be a proactive and adaptable professional committed to driving HR initiatives that align with organizational goals. You will leverage your HR expertise to serve as a trusted partner to the HR Director, focusing on team collaboration, training and DEI advocacy. 

Hours and Location

The HR Business Partner position with eCornell follows a hybrid work schedule, requiring 3 days on-site at our Ithaca Danby Road location and 2 days remote each week. The position operates during standard daytime hours, Monday through Friday, with team collaboration occurring primarily between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

Success Factors

To thrive as an HR Business Partner at eCornell, you'll embody a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset and bring a deep understanding of the HR function. As a trusted partner to the HR Director, you'll be available, responsive, and highly communicative, demonstrating respect, empathy, and professionalism at all times. Success in this role requires not only HR expertise but also strong business acumen, as you’ll work closely with diverse units and tackle complex projects that align with eCornell's organizational goals.

Key qualities include:

• Adaptability & Initiative: You’ll need to think critically and act quickly, showing agility in an ever-evolving environment. Taking initiative to propose solutions and making informed decisions without needing constant guidance will be essential.
• Effective Communication: Maintaining open, consistent communication, regular check-ins, and "water cooler" moments helps ensure alignment and trust with the team and stakeholders.
• Customer Service Mentality: A strong customer-service orientation, treating everyone with dignity and respect, and modeling these behaviors will set you apart.
• Collaboration & Partnership: You’ll act as a right hand and thought partner to the HR Direc