Assistant Vice President for Human Resources

Job title: Assistant Vice President for Human Resources

About the Role The Assistant Vice President for Human Resources (AVP HR) reports to the Chief Financial Officer and serves as the strategic and operational leader responsible for advancing the University’s mission through effective human capital management. The AVP oversees the development, implementation, and evaluation of HR programs and services that support faculty, staff, and administrators, ensuring alignment with institutional goals.

What You'll Do

• Provide leadership, direction, and oversight of HR operations and staff to ensure high-quality delivery of programs and services.
• Develop and manage the annual HR budget and oversee talent management, workforce planning, and succession planning aligned with university goals.
• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, retention, and development programs to build a strong and diverse workforce.
• Lead employee relations including investigations, conflict resolution, and guidance to leaders on personnel matters; design initiatives to enhance engagement and campus culture.
• Manage performance management framework, coaching, and development; administer progressive discipline in accordance with policy.
• Develop and maintain HR policies and processes; ensure compliance with federal and New York State regulations (e.g., ACA, FLSA, ERISA, FMLA, NYSPFL, HIPAA, ADA, COBRA).
• Oversee total rewards including salary administration, compensation and benefits strategy, and health, retirement, and wellness programs.
• Lead organizational communications and change management, drive improvements, and assess readiness for strategic initiatives.

What We're Looking For

• Master’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Higher Education Administration, or related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive HR leadership experience, preferably in higher education.
• Demonstrated expertise in employment law, regulatory compliance (federal and New York State), employee relations, and strategic HR planning.
• Financial acumen with budget management and vendor oversight; experience driving change management and process improvements.

Nice to Have

• JD with a focus on labor relations or employment law.
• SHRM-SCP, SPHR, or equivalent certification.
• Familiarity with academic personnel processes and faculty affairs.