The Director of Employee Experience is a strategic HR leader responsible for fostering a positive, inclusive, and high-performing workplace across the university. This role partners closely with department heads to guide employee relations initiatives, strengthen performance development practices, and enhance training and development and change management initiatives. The position plays a critical role in aligning strategies with institutional goals while ensuring fair, consistent, and compliant employment practices. Principal Duties & Responsibilities Manage employee relations initiatives, including conflict resolution, investigations, and policy interpretation, ensuring equitable and consistent outcomes. Partner with department heads and university leadership to address employee concerns, support organizational effectiveness, and promote a positive work environment. Support Managers to enhance performance management processes, including coaching managers on feedback, development planning, and performance improvement strategies. Support training and development programs that build employee growth, and engagement. Provide guidance on complex employee situations, balancing institutional priorities with employee experience. Supervise and mentor the HR Business Partner, supporting their professional development and day-to-day work. Collaborate with department heads to drive initiatives related to employee engagement, and retention. Analyze trends and metrics to inform proactive employee relations strategies and continuous improvement efforts. Ensure compliance with applicable employment laws, university policies, and best practices. Contribute to broader HR and institutional initiatives as needed. Other duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Other Attributes Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in employee relations/ human resources, with a strong focus on managing complex employee issues. Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education, certification, and relevant professional experience. Experience working in higher education or similarly complex, mission-driven organizations preferred. Demonstrated ability to build strong relationships and collaborate effectively across diverse teams and leadership levels. Strong knowledge of employment laws, employee relations practices, and conflict resolution techniques. Proven ability to coach and influence managers in performance management and employee development. Organizational design; change management expertise preferred Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills