Human Resources Director for Culture and Learning

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Western North Carolina, UNC Asheville is the designated public liberal arts campus in the University of North Carolina system. UNC Asheville is nationally known for the quality of our student-centered teaching, mentoring of undergraduates in research, interdisciplinary learning, and striving to be an inclusive campus community.
UNC Asheville is committed to promoting diversity and a work environment that encourages knowledge of, respect for, and the ability to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds. Staff members are encouraged to take an active role to engage in the institution's efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion throughout the workplace. The successful candidate is expected to foster an inclusive work culture where uniqueness of beliefs, backgrounds, talents, capabilities and ways of living are respected and welcomed. Women, traditionally under-represented minorities, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Office hours are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Additional hours may be required to complete job-related duties and support the institution's mission.

The Human Resources Director for Culture & Learning serves as a senior role within the Office of Human Resources, dedicated to fostering an inclusive work environment that mirrors the organization's core values and mission.

This role is centered on shaping and sustaining a positive organizational culture, overseeing the design and implementation of learning and development initiatives that enhance workforce culture and employee well-being.

The Director will lead HR strategy and planning, developing, and executing HR strategies in alignment with the institution's overarching goals and vision. Responsibilities include:

As a strategic representative of the Office of Human Resources on campus, the Director will partner with key stakeholders to assess evolving business and talent needs, driving and advocating for employee culture and employee well-being initiatives.

Key responsibilities of the Director include:

Overseeing the university's employee relations program for all staff levels and classifications. This includes a comprehensive range of services such as supervisory consultations on performance, professionalism, conduct, disciplinary actions, and university separations (e.g., discontinuations and dismissals); support and guidance for faculty and staff on workplace issues and conflicts; monitoring of departmental environments and overseeing employee engagement surveys.

Leading the adoption of best practices in employee relations; offering counsel and direction on complex and sensitive issues.

Guiding faculty and staff on grievance processes, advising supervisors and managers on disciplinary procedures, and providing support for employee relations across university departments.

Coordinating or assisting with investigations into suspected breaches of university policies, helping to prepare investigation reports, and advising academic and administrative sectors on the results of such investigations, overseeing the employee appeals process.

Assessing data on employee retention and related matters, conducting exit interviews, and formulating recommendations and support for the management team.

Upholding the utmost integrity, confidentiality, and dedication to fostering a workplace where employees can prosper.

A bachelor's degree is required, along with over five (5+) years of progressive, relevant experience, ideally in a leadership role. This should be related to employee relations, employment law, labor relations, or a similar field, with a focus on employee culture, engagement, and well-being.

Applications must be submitted online no later than 11:59 p.m. ( EST) on the closing date for each specific position. Please note that any documents submitted to Human Resources or the hiring departments become property of UNC Asheville and will not be returned. Official verification from each college/university you have attended are required upon employment, and will be requested directly from the college/university by Human Resources or from the National Student Clearinghouse. Any expense will be the responsibility of the employee. Educational degrees must be from an appropriately accredited institution. If no applicants apply who meet the required competency and training and experience requirements, management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations. It is the policy of UNC Asheville to conduct pre-employment background investigations on all candidates selected for employment. If hired, the candidate will be required to submit proof of eligibility to work in the United States. New employees are paid only by direct deposit to the financial institution of their choice.