Position Summary:

The Director of Human Resources serves as the strategic and operational leader for all human resource functions at Philander Smith University. This position is responsible for planning, developing, and directing HR policies and programs that align with the institution's mission, vision, and values. The Director will oversee areas including employee relations, talent acquisition, classification and compensation, benefits administration, compliance, performance management, training and development, and HR information systems.

The Director of Human Resources partners closely with university leadership to promote a positive, equitable, and compliant work environment that attracts, develops, and retains high-quality faculty and staff.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership and Planning

• Develop and implement strategic HR initiatives that support the University's strategic plan and foster institutional effectiveness.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to the President, Vice Presidents, Deans, and other senior leaders on all HR matters.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations.
• Analyze workforce data and trends to recommend policies and practices that improve organizational performance and culture.

Talent Acquisition and Retention

• Direct recruitment, onboarding, and retention strategies to attract and retain diverse, talented professionals.
• Oversee equitable hiring practices, ensuring adherence to EEO and affirmative action guidelines.
• Coordinate employee orientation and onboarding to enhance engagement and retention.

Employee Relations and Engagement

• Foster a culture of transparency, respect, and inclusion across all divisions of the University. Advise leadership on employee relations issues, investigations, and disciplinary actions in compliance with applicable laws and institutional policy.
• Mediate conflicts and provide guidance to supervisors and employees to promote effective communication and resolution.

Compensation, Benefits, and Performance Management

• Administer competitive and equitable compensation structures and benefits programs. Oversee performance evaluation systems and ensure consistent application across departments.
• Collaborate with senior leadership on budgetary and compensation planning.

Compliance and Policy Administration

• Ensure compliance with employment-related laws such as FMLA, FLSA, ADA, Title VII, and Title IX (as applicable).
• Develop, maintain, and communicate HR policies and procedures.
• Oversee preparation for internal and external audits, including federal and state reporting requirements.

Professional Development and Training

• Lead initiatives in training and professional development for faculty and staff, including supervisory and compliance training.
• Encourage leadership development and continuous learning across the institution.

HR Operations and Systems

• Manage HR information systems (HRIS) and ensure data integrity, security, and reporting accuracy.
• Oversee payroll coordination, personnel records, and benefits administration.
• Implement process improvements for efficiency and service excellence within HR operations.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources Management, Business Administration, Organizational Development, or related field required.
• A minimum of seven (7) years of progressive HR experience, with at least three (3) years in a supervisory or managerial capacity.
• Experience in higher education or a comparable complex organization strongly preferred. Professional HR certification (e.g., SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or SPHR) preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Comprehensive knowledge of federal and state employment laws and best HR practices.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build trust and credibility.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Ability to manage sensitive and confidential information with integrity and professionalism.
• Proficiency with HRIS, Microsoft Office Suite, and related HR software systems.