Senior Director – Human Resources

Excelsior University

. Develop and implement strategic HR initiatives aligned with institutional priorities with the Vice President for Human Resources .

Posted 9/22/2026full-timeAlbany • New York • United StatesSenior💰 $110,000 - $120,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in strategic HR initiatives, organizational leadership, and employee relations while fostering a positive workplace culture. Proficient in project management, budget oversight, and compliance with HR regulations.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Strategic HR InitiativesOrganizational LeadershipEmployee RelationsProject ManagementHR Compliance

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

HR OperationsWorkforce PlanningData-Informed Decision-MakingPolicy DevelopmentBudget ManagementConflict ResolutionTalent DevelopmentPerformance ManagementOrganizational DevelopmentAnalytical Skills

Soft Skills

Interpersonal SkillsCommunication SkillsRelationship-BuildingCoaching SkillsCollaboration

Certifications & Qualifications

SHRM-CPSHRM-SCPSPHR

Industry Keywords

Higher Education AdministrationDiversity and InclusionEmployee EngagementShared GovernanceStrategic Planning

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Develop and implement strategic HR initiatives aligned with institutional priorities with the Vice President for Human Resources
Support the daily operations of the HR department and ensure high-quality service delivery across HR functions
Represent Human Resources in university governance, strategic planning, councils, task forces, risk assessment, business continuity efforts, and institutional initiatives
Lead and manage complex HR projects and organizational initiatives from planning through execution
Analyze organizational trends, workforce needs, and HR metrics to support data-informed decision-making
Support employee relations, performance management, conflict resolution, workplace investigations, policy interpretation, and employee concerns
Promote a positive, inclusive, and collaborative workplace culture
Mentor and coach managers and supervisors on leadership effectiveness, employee engagement, and talent development
Support employee morale, retention, organizational trust, and best-place-to-work initiatives
Support leadership development and succession planning initiatives
Identify and nurture internal talent through mentoring, coaching, and professional development strategies
Collaborate on learning and development programs for faculty, staff, and supervisors
Partner with talent acquisition on strategic recruitment and workforce planning
Assist with development, management, and oversight of the HR budget
Monitor expenditures and support fiscally responsible HR operations
Contribute to policy development, compliance efforts, and operational process improvements
Ensure HR practices align with applicable federal, state, and institutional regulations and policies
Build collaborative relationships with academic and administrative leaders
Serve as a trusted advisor on organizational and workforce matters
Promote transparency, communication, and responsiveness within HR and across campus stakeholders
Support cross-functional collaboration to enhance employee experience and institutional effectiveness

Requirements

What you’ll need

Master’s degree in human resources, Business Administration, Higher Education Administration, or a related field
Minimum of 5–10 years of progressively responsible Human Resources experience
Minimum of 3 years of HR leadership or management experience
Demonstrated experience in organizational leadership, employee relations, strategic planning, and project management
Strong understanding of HR operations, employment practices, and organizational development principles
Excellent interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills
Demonstrated ability to lead collaboratively in a complex organizational environment
Professional HR certification (e.g., SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, SPHR) preferred
Experience supporting shared governance structures and institutional strategic planning
Experience managing budgets and leading cross-functional initiatives
Strategic thinking and organizational leadership capabilities
Ability to manage multiple priorities and complex projects effectively
Strong conflict resolution, coaching, and consultation skills
High level of professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment
Ability to foster trust and maintain collaborative relationships across diverse constituencies
Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and employee engagement
Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities

Benefits

Comp & perks

Hybrid work environment
Professional development opportunities
Mentoring and coaching
Occasional evening or weekend responsibilities may be required to support institutional initiatives and events