Human Resources Director

University of Wisconsin-La Crosse; La Crosse (WI); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A public university in La Crosse is seeking a Director of Human Resources to oversee daily operations, manage HR services, and ensure compliance with regulations. This leadership role requires a bachelor's degree in a related field and significant experience in HR management. Ideal candidates will demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative approach while supporting faculty, staff, and students. A master's degree and HR certification are preferred qualifications.

Qualifications

• 5+ years leading and managing human resource functions.
• Ability to develop collaborative relationships in a diverse environment.
• Outstanding interpersonal and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the Office of Human Resources.
• Manage HR services including recruitment, employee relations, and compliance.
• Support employees and supervisors with HR processes.

Skills

Leadership

Interpersonal skills

Presentation skills

Collaborative teamwork

Service orientation

Regulatory knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business, public administration, or related field

Tools

Workday

Job description

The Director of Human Resources oversees the daily operations of the Office of Human Resources for the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse. This position is responsible for managing core HR services, ensuring accurate and timely HR transactions, and supporting employees, supervisors, and campus partners with HR processes and information. Core functional areas of the Office of Human Resources include employment services, payroll and benefits, employee relations support, performance management administration, and training coordination. This position is also responsible for ensuring the university remains in compliance with federal and state laws and regulations and Universities of Wisconsin personnel policies and procedures. The Director of Human Resources reports to the Associate Vice Chancellor for Budget and Personnel.

The review of applications starts on March 23, 2026. Applications received on or before March 23rd are prioritized and review will continue until the position(s) is/are filled. Initial interviews will be conducted virtually, with shortlisted candidates invited to campus.

UW-La Crosse does not offer H-1B or other work authorization visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and maintain work authorization throughout the employment term. If you have questions regarding this, please contact Human Resources at 608-785-8013.

Required Qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree in human resources, business, or public administration, or related field is required
• 5 years leading and managing human resource functions including employee recruitment and retention, performance and evaluation planning, employee relations, payroll and benefits, employee and supervisor training, and career and leadership development.
• Outstanding interpersonal skills and the ability to interact with a broad range of people. Strong presentation skills.
• A collaborative, team-oriented style. The ability to develop solid collaborative relationships with a diverse group of campus constituents including faculty, staff, and students.
• A demonstrated service orientation and proactive in providing service and support to campus stakeholders.
• Working knowledge of, and the ability to interpret and apply, applicable federal and state laws and regulations.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A master’s degree in human resources, business or public administration, or related field.
• Professional certification in human resources.
• Progressively responsible experience in human resource management in higher education
• A total of eight or more years of experience in human resource management and supervision in a higher education, public sector, or private sector setting.
• Strong working knowledge and experience with Workday