Director of Human Resources

Concordia University, Chicago•River Forest, IL

4d•$100 - $122•Onsite

About The Position

Concordia University Chicago invites applications for a full-time, exempt Director of Human Resources. Located in River Forest, Illinois, the position reports directly to the Chief Financial Officer/Vice President of Finance and manages the University’s human resources functions, including benefits administration, budget and planning, labor and employee relations, compensation, talent management, HRIS, and HR-related compliance. The Director partners with the CFO/Vice President of Finance and other leaders to develop and implement a personnel strategy aligned with the University’s mission, vision, values, and strategic goals. Candidates must support and be committed to Concordia University Chicago’s identity and mission as a university of the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. The Director serves on the University Leadership Team, as Deputy Title IX Coordinator, and as administrative liaison to Staff Council.

Requirements

Seven years of progressively responsible HR experience.
Master’s degree in Human Resources, Business, or a related field, or comparable years of HR experience, education, and certification.
Strong business acumen, attention to detail, and consideration of the human element.
Thorough knowledge of employment law, regulations, and HR best practices.
Ability to manage multiple responsibilities, prioritize, and delegate when appropriate.
Strong administrative, supervisory, leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to adapt to organizational and employee needs.
Technically proficient with computer programs.
Superior verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
Support for Lutheran higher education and Concordia University Chicago’s mission and identity.
Service-oriented approach toward stakeholders; effective, professional, accurate, and timely communication.
Receptiveness to information and willingness to appropriately share it to improve work performance.
Commitment to providing effective employee training, development, and talent management.

Nice To Haves

Experience in higher education.
Experience in a faith-based organization.
Proficiency with Microsoft Access, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and BANNER.
SPHR, SHRM-SCP, or other relevant HR certification.
Working knowledge of Title IX, HRIS, and wage compensation systems.

Responsibilities

Build a culture of trust, collegiality, employee engagement, and compliance.
Manage HR personnel, operations, and budget.
Monitor HR operations and determine appropriate technology systems and support.
Ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
Partner with senior university leaders to recruit and retain a qualified workforce that advances the University’s mission.
Track and assess recruiting effectiveness and coordinate employee retention efforts.
Determine and approve compensation levels and practices before positions are posted, ensuring internal and external equity.
Serve as the primary institutional liaison with external providers for employee health, welfare, and benefit plans; review and analyze current benefits with executive leadership.
Research, analyze, and recommend benefit options based on employee usage and requests, trends, programs offered by other organizations, and costs and benefits.
Assist University Leadership in developing a total compensation philosophy and program to attract, retain, and recognize a qualified workforce.
Communicate HR policies, procedures, and practices to employees through the Employee Handbook.
Collaborate with supervisors on effective employee management and proactively offer solutions consistent with the University’s mission and legal requirements.
Maintain visibility and availability to assist employees.
Serve as Deputy Title IX Coordinator.
Collaborate with HR staff to administer FMLA and ADA requests.
Implement training and talent management programs and receive and respond effectively to employee concerns.
Identify employee development and training needs and opportunities, and implement the employee development plan.
Serve as a member of the University Leadership Team.
Serve as Administrative Liaison to Staff Council.
Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.