Assistant Director of Human Resources (Employee Relations/Classification & Compensation) at InsideHigherEd

Working Title:Assistant Director of Human Resources (Employee Relations/Classification & Compensation)Position Number:GA309FLSA:ExemptAppointment Type:Full TimeSensitive Position:NoSensitive Position Statement:A sensitive position requires a fingerprint-based criminal history check. This is NOT a sensitive position.Campus Security Authority:YesCampus Security Authority Statement:This position is designated as a Campus Security Authority. A Campus Security Authority is required to immediately report any crime that is reported to them to the CNU Police. The CNU Police will then review, evaluate, and investigate the reported crime. Annual training is required by the Department of Education for faculty and staff designated as a Campus Security Authority.Designated Personnel:YesDesignated Personnel Statement:This position is designated essential for the University. In the event of an emergency, this position may be required to work during an authorized closing depending on the situation.Statement of Economic Interest:NoStatement of Economic Interest Statement:This position is NOT required to complete the Statement of Economic Interest form annually and the related training as required by the Commonwealth of Virginia.Restricted Position:YesRestricted Position Statement:A restricted position would be subject to availability of funding. This is a restricted position.Chief Objective of Position:Provides strategic and operational leadership for the University’s Classification and Compensation and Employee Relations functions. Leads the planning and execution of performance management processes, salary surveys, and required federal and state reporting. Leads change-management efforts related to new systems and processes within the Human Resource Department.Work Tasks:Classification and CompensationProvides oversight of the University compensation program to include compliance with federal, state and University regulations and policies, creates, maintains, and updates the University compensation plan and philosophy.Assists the Executive Director of Human Resources with budget preparation with regards to compensation planning, estimates and initiatives to include compensation study and market adjustments.Directly manages the creation of administrative professional (AP) positions, the AP salary plan, and University compensation studies.Reviews and approves appropriateness for pay action requests for current employees using the Commonwealth of Virginia Compensation Reform policies, the CNU Salary Plan and additional resources as needed.Determines appropriate starting salaries and wages for employees using sound compensation practices to ensure fairness and consistency.In conjunction with the Training and Development Manager, develops and provides training on the classification and compensation processes.Performance Planning and EvaluationProvides performance planning and evaluation support to managers and employees to ensure consistency and fairness, including training and talent development resources.Effectively leads and manages performance planning and evaluations to include process, schedule, employee and manager notifications, training, tracking, and follow-up in accordance with Virginia’s Department of Human Resources Management (DHRM) and University accreditation requirements.Resolves employee/management issues concerning classification and performance evaluations.Employee RelationsPartners with the Human Resources Business Partner to provide advice, assistance, and counsel to employees and managers in the positive resolution of work-related problems, concerns, and grievances.Provides oversight of the University’s employee relations program. This includes serving as the employee relations liaison with departments and enhancing the University’s environment by establishing and promoting effective employee relations strategies through proactive means such as training programs, workshops and individual meetings.Analyzes problem situations and creatively works with employees and managers to find alternative methods of dispute resolution. Provides or coordinates mediations, as needed.Conducts investigations and interviews employees and managers, as needed, to ascertain the facts surrounding alleged issues in order to resolve employment problems.Consults and works closely with the Director of Institutional Compliance/Title IX Coordinator on related issues, policies and needs.Provides guidance, interpretation and consultation on complex human resources policies related to EO compliance, and employee relations. Serves as a consultant to managers and employees to strengthen employee relations and training and development in the positive resolution of work-related problems, concerns, and grievances.Consults with the Executive Director of Human Resources as to related DHRM and Employee Dispute Resolution (EDR) policies, as well as performance planning and evaluation, and other issues, needs and recommended actions. Serves as a consultant to faculty, staff and supervisors on EDR and DHRM policies and procedures concerning employee relations, dispute resolution, performance planning and evaluation, and required reporting.Responsible for navigating the Commonwealth’s grievance process.Ensures compliance with federal and state regulations, policies and procedures for employee relations issues.OperationsHires, trains, supervises, evaluates, and recommends personnel actions for those individuals under direct and indirect supervision within the Human Resources Department.Collects and analyzes relevant data to make recommendations to the Executive Director of Human Resources Operations on strategic process improvements.Acts as the Data Owner of the University’s Human Resource Information System (HRIS), and is responsible for making policy and practice decisions regarding HRIS data. Required to complete assigned role-based security training annually as defined in the University Role Based Security Standard.Ensures audit requests and responses are completed on time and accurately.Serves as a point of contact in the absence of the Executive Director of Human Resources.Ensure HR practices adhere to federal, state, and local employment laws (FLSA, FMLA, ADA, EEO, etc.).Review HR policies and update them based on regulatory changes and organizational needs.Is responsible for documentation standards for classification reviews, compensation decisions, and employee relations actions.RecruitmentProvides indirect oversight of the classified and hourly and Administrative and Professional recruitment process in accordance with Virginia’s Department of Human Resources Management (DHRM) and University policy procedures.Serves as the back up to the Human Resources Business Partner, conducting reviews of recruitment and hiring processes to ensure adherence to legal and institutional requirements. Offer guidance and support to departments and search committees on best practices for inclusive and equitable hiring.Strategic Planning & Organizational AlignmentPartners with the Executive Director of Human Resources and senior leadership to align Human Resource practices with overall strategic plan- Strategic Compass.As needed, serves as the project manager for projects within the Human Resource Department.As needed, lead change-management efforts related to new systems and processes within the Human Resource Department.OtherServes as the Deputy Title IX coordinator for the University.Follow workplace safety regulations and adhere to applicable standards, processes, and programs established for your position.Report unsafe work conditions to your supervisor.Immediately report work-related incidents to your supervisor and participate in accident investigation requests.Promote a safe and healthy work environment by ensuring the implementation of safety regulations and applicable standards, processes, and programs established for employees under your supervision.Ensure employees under your supervision are trained in safety standards and procedures for their positions.Report work-related incidents within 24 hours according to the procedures established by the university, state and federal guidelines.This position is designated as a “responsible employee” who has the authority to redress sexual violence, who has the duty to report incidents of sexual violence or other student misconduct, or who a student could reasonably believe has this authority or duty.Develop and maintain very positive and professional customer service and/or relations within the office/department and with all constituencies to include students, faculty, staff, guests, and employees. Demonstrate a positive and professional attitude and treat everyone with dignity and respect. Fully supports the “Student’s First” value at CNU and routinely goes the extra mile in providing service.Knowledge, Skills, Abilities (KSA's) related to position:Excellent written and verbal communications skills. Working knowledge of classification, compensation, performance planning and evaluation processes. Excellent problem-solving skills. Demonstrated ability to correctly classify and compensate positions and employees; organize and implement projects or program plans; develop and advise on policy; and, to investigate and analyze complex questions and issues. Strong analytical and decision-making skills .Excellent communication and facilitation abilities. High level of discretion and professionalism. Ability to navigate complex workforce issues with fairness and consistency. Strategic thinking with attention to operational detail.Required Education:Master’s degree in a related field, or a bachelor’s degree with significant experience that equates to an advanced degree.Additional Consideration - Education:SHRM-SCP or SPHRExperience Required:Experience in a Human Resources leadership position. Experience in the areas of compensation and classification. Experience with employee relations, grievances and developing positive relations between employees and management. Advanced experience using spreadsheet software with functions. Experience analyzing data and communicating outcomes. Experience developing human resource policies and procedures.Additional Consideration - Experience:Experience working at a college/university in a Human Resources Department. Experience working with Cardinal timekeeping and payroll system. Experience working with PeopleAdmin applicant tracking system. Project management experience.Salary Information:Starting at $102,350, Commensurate with Education and Experience.CNU Information:Christopher Newport University is anchored in excellence, and that is reflected in our ranking as the #1 regional public university in Virginia and #3 among regional public universities in the South. We are an inclusive and kind community, founded on our shared values of honor, scholarship, service and leadership. We offer an outstanding liberal arts education provided by dedicated, gifted teacher-scholars who are supported by a compassionate team of faculty and staff. Our 4,500 undergraduate and graduate students pursue more than 90 areas of study, as they live and learn on a largely residential campus. CNU’s on-campus performing and visual arts centers offer Broadway shows, world-class performances, engaging exhibitions, transformative lectures and classes, and more. Our athletics program is the winningest at any level in Virginia. Christopher Newport University is in the heart of Newport News, a vibrant city with breathtaking scenery and unique experiences. The city and region offer affordable neighborhoods, local and name-brand shops, diverse dining options, local parks and water access, and fun recreational opportunities. Whatever your interests and goals, you belong at CNU! For further details and information about Christopher Newport, visit cnu.edu.Is this position telework eligible?:YesTelework Eligibility Disclaimer:This position is eligible for periodic telework as determined by the department. Eligibility is not guaranteed, and is subject to supervisor approval. Eligibility will depend on the likelihood of the employee’s success in a telework arrangement and the supervisor’s ability to manage telework. Departments and/or Human Resources may modify or revoke eligibility at any time. Employees will be required to sign a Telework Agreement.Posting Number:AP442PPosting Date:12/12/2025Review Begin Date:01/07/2026Application Instructions:Interested parties are requested to submit a cover letter; current resume; and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references at the time of application.This position will be posted until filled; however, review of applications will begin on 01/07/2026.Search finalists are required to complete a CNU sponsored background check.Christopher Newport University (CNU) will make a reasonable effort to accommodate persons with disabilities in the application and/or interview process. Persons with disabilities who require accommodation should contact the CNU Human Resources Office by calling (757) 594-7145.Quick Link for Internal Postings:https://jobs.cnu.edu/postings/20281EEO/Diversity Statement(s):Christopher Newport University, an EO Employer, is fully Committed to Access and Opportunity.Notice of Non-Discrimination & Title IX Policy Statement