What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Human Resources Business Partner position at UMass Amherst?
Title: Lead Human Resources Business Partner
Executive Area: Human Resources
College/School/MBU: Human Resources
Department: Human Resources
Work Location: Amherst
Schedule:Full Time
Work Arrangement:Onsite
Job Summary
UMass Amherst is seeking an experienced and strategic Lead Human Resource Business Partner (HRBP) to provide leadership and direction for Human Resources functions supporting Student Affairs and Campus Life. Reporting to the Senior Director for HR Embedded Services, with a dotted line relationship to the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Campus Life, the Lead HRBP plays a critical role in aligning human resources strategy with the division's student success, residential experience, safety, wellness, and operational priorities. This role serves as the senior HR leader supporting a dynamic and highly visible portfolio that directly shapes the student experience and campus community.
The Lead HRBP serves as a trusted advisor to divisional leadership and partners closely with departments across Student Affairs and Campus Life, which includes Residential Life, Dining, Recreation, Dean of Students functions, student support operations, the University Police Department, and other areas. The role oversees all Human Resources functions for assigned client areas, partnering with leadership, key stakeholders, and HR colleagues to develop and implement people strategies that address immediate operational needs while advancing long-term organizational goals. The Lead HRBP collaborates with Centers of Excellence across Compensation & Talent Acquisition, Employee Engagement, Labor Relations, Leaves/Accommodations, and Total Rewards to deliver integrated HR solutions, directly manages Senior HRBP(s), mentors other HRBP levels, and serves as a key advisor to executive leadership.
Essential Functions
Spearheads HR transformation initiatives and the strategic planning process, driving change and ensuring alignment with the University's strategic plan. Influences executive leadership and key stakeholders within a centralized embedded services model to achieve organizational goals.
Oversees all HR processes, systems, and short- and long-term strategies for assigned business unit(s). Aligns initiatives to the overall University strategy and direction set by the Chancellor and to specific Vice Chancellor, Deans, and Department Heads.
Leads and mentors a team of HR Business Partners. Addresses and resolves issues within the team. Assesses training needs and develops relevant training programs in conjunction with the HR Workplace Learning and Development and HR functional areas (Compensation, Benefits, Labor Relations, etc.).
Develops human resources strategies to meet changing academic and business needs through assisting with organizational structure redesign, succession planning, creation of new positions and roles, and the effective use of communication planning.
Provides direction and tools for Vice Chancellors, Deans, and Department Heads to continually assess changing skill set needs, skill levels and skill gaps, overall team effectiveness and effectiveness of retention and performance management initiatives.
Provides proactive guidance and coaching in bringing front-line employee relations and labor relations matters to successful resolutions. Partners with HR Labor Relations staff on highly complex matters. Leads investigations related to such matters.
Ensures HR functions are fully compliant with all applicable regulatory standards, including federal, state, and local employment laws. Regularly monitors and updates HR policies and practices to reflect changes in legislation. Provides guidance on regulatory compliance, mitigating risk and ensuring consistent and fair application of policies across the organization.
Provides leadership in coordinating and aligning collaboration across HR Business Partners and HR business centers, ensuring cohesive service delivery, data-driven decision-making, and continuous improvement of HR strategies and operations University-wide.
Other Functions
Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree and ten (10) years of progressive human resources experience.
Demonstrated experience as a strategic HR Business Partner or HR leader supporting senior-level clients.
Senior-level experience with managing employee relations matters and performance management, ensuring equitable, consistent, and defensible outcomes.
Experience navigating organizational complexity, including matrixed or unionized settings.
Demonstrated strategic thinking and change leadership, with deep knowledge of workforce planning and organizational design, and the ability to align HR services with organizational goals.
Exceptional communication, influence, and relationship-building skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development, Business Administration, or related field.
Higher education campus operations, facilities, healthcare, or public-sector experience.
Strong background in employee relations, investigations, and/or unionized environments.
Active HR certification (i.e. PHR, SHRM-CP).
Working Conditions
Work is performed in a standard office or indoor university environment and involves minimal physical exertion.
Work Schedule and Work Arrangement
Monday through Friday 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM, 40 hours per week.
Salary Information
Pay Grade:PSSAP Grade 32
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Special Instructions for Applicants
Along with the application, please submit a resume. References will be checked at the finalist stage. Please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references.
This position will remain open for the time period required by any applicable collective bargaining agreement and will continue until a suitable candidate pool is identified. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.