Director, Human Resources and Talent Manageme at Virginia Union University – Richmond, Virginia

Virginia Union University (VUU) is a distinguished private institution founded in 1865 that proudly upholds a legacy of academic excellence and community engagement. With a historic 86-acre campus, it offers a dynamic and nurturing environment for its 1,568 undergraduate and graduate students. Virginia Union University is recognized in the 2024 edition of U.S. News & World Report, holding a prestigious position as #39 among Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Five fundamental principles (core values) guide Virginia Union University. Each principle is essential to our ability to provide a Best-In-Class educational experience for students, faculty, and staff. These principles help our community understand the right path to fulfilling our institution's mission. The principles are Innovation, Spiritual Formation, Integrity, Diversity & Inclusion, and Excellence.

The Director of Human Resources provides strategic leadership and oversight of all human resources functions for the University. This role is responsible for developing and executing HR strategies that align with institutional goals, enhance organizational effectiveness, and support a diverse and high-performing workforce. The Senior Director serves as a trusted advisor to executive leadership on workforce planning, employee relations, compliance, and talent management while ensuring adherence to federal, state, and higher education regulations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive human resources strategy aligned with the University’s mission and strategic plan.
• Lead workforce planning, organizational design, and succession planning initiatives.
• Advise executive leadership on HR trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, and retention strategies to attract and retain top talent.
• Ensure equitable and inclusive hiring practices.
• Monitor staffing trends and develop solutions to address workforce needs.
• Provide leadership in employee relations, conflict resolution, and performance management.
• Foster a positive workplace culture that promotes engagement, diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Oversee employee engagement initiatives and climate assessments.
• Direct the development and administration of competitive compensation and benefits programs.
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws and institutional policies.
• Oversee salary administration, job classification, and market analysis.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations (e.g., FLSA, FMLA, ADA).
• Oversee audits, reporting, and HR policy development.
• Manage risk related to employment practices and institutional liability.
• Oversee HRIS systems, data management, and reporting.
• Lead process improvement initiatives to enhance HR service delivery.
• Ensure accurate recordkeeping and data integrity.
• Develop and implement professional development, leadership training, and performance evaluation programs.
• Promote continuous learning and workforce development.
• Provide leadership and direction to HR staff, including recruitment, benefits, payroll, and employee relations teams.
• Establish performance expectations and support staff development.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Public Administration, or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum of 8–10 years of progressive HR leadership experience.
• Strong knowledge of employment laws, compliance, and HR best practices.
• Demonstrated experience in strategic planning and organizational leadership.
• Must be able to lift 10 pounds.

Application Process

Candidates are required to submit their resume, four professional references and a cover letter. The application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. A background investigation and reference check will be required prior to employment. For any questions or concerns, please contact Askhr@vuu.edu.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Virginia Union University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other protected class.

For more information about Virginia Union University, visit VUU About Page.