This position is a strategic leader responsible for enhancing the university's culture, employee engagement, and professional development.
Reporting to the Vice President for Human Resources, this role oversees initiatives that improve the employee experience across all stages—from onboarding to retention. The Director leads a high-performing team, providing strategic HR consulting and creating programs that promote inclusivity, professional development, and recognition.
Primary job duties include, but are not limited to:
Fostering a high-performing team dedicated to prioritizing and enhancing the employee experience through strategic HR practices. Cultivate a positive workplace culture by implementing a comprehensive coaching and feedback framework aligned with university leadership initiatives. Lead and inspire team members through effective planning, comprehensive training, and adept management. Cultivate a resilient and high-performing team committed to providing proactive strategic HR consulting and delivering advisory services rooted in best practices.
Designing and implementing programs that elevate employee experience, from onboarding to continuous development. Establish the Center for Ohio Employee Excellence to support faculty and staff, including onboarding and professional development, across all campuses and modalities. Oversee training and development programs that enhance leadership, compliance, and professional growth. Develop initiatives that recognize and celebrate employee achievements, fostering a culture of appreciation and supporting retention through impactful recognition strategies.
Serving as an advisor to leadership and department heads on leveraging human resources to meet long-term and short-term goals. Oversee performance management, succession planning, and adherence to compliance standards to support the university's strategic HR objectives. Serve as an integral member of the HR team, actively engaging in the pursuit and development of solutions to meet strategic needs
Other duties as assigned.
About OHIO:
Ohio University is the oldest university in Ohio and recently received the prestigious Carnegie R1 classification for very high research activity, one of 142 such schools nationwide. The university also recently completed its Dynamic Strategy process to craft a vision and goals across four pillars to guide the institution's future. Athens is a quintessential college town in the Appalachian foothills of southeast Ohio, offering excellent academic and social opportunities and the convenience of small-town living in a single package.
Minimum Qualifications:
At least six (6) years of labor/employee relations experience is required.
At least six (6) years of management and/or supervisory experience.
At least a Master's Degree in Human Resources, Management, Business Administration, Labor Relations, or a related field. An equivalent combination of education and experience with also satisfy the degree requirement.
Preferred Qualifications:
PHR or SHRM-CP certifications are highly-preferred.
Planning Unit: Office of the President
Department: University Human Resources
Applicants may contact this person if they have questions about this position: Chief of Staff to the VPHR, Ana Tomas (tomas@ohio.edu)
Employment Type: full-time regular
Advertised Salary:
$95,101 – $128,385 annually. Employees also enjoy a generous benefits package which includes full health benefits, paid time off, and educational benefits for employees and their eligible dependents.
Ohio University is home to one of the nation’s friendliest and most picturesque campuses. But more importantly, it’s where you can become part of a two-century tradition of excellence and embark upon a rewarding career that will make a real difference. From teaching and research to admissions, facilities maintenance, and residence life, our faculty and staff propel Ohio University’s mission of helping students become their best selves. OHIO offers competitive compensation and outstanding benefits. For a complete list of employment opportunities, please visit www.ohiouniversityjobs.com.Ohio University is an equal access/equal opportunity affirmative action institution. For more information about Ohio University’s policies prohibiting discrimination and harassment, visit www.ohio.edu/equity.