Strategic HR Director — Faith‑Based University

Concordia University Chicago; River Forest (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

Retirement Plan

Tuition Benefits

EAP

Life Insurance

Job summary

Concordia University Chicago seeks a full-time Director of Human Resources in River Forest, IL. The role reports to the CFO and oversees benefits, compensation, labor relations, HRIS, and compliance.

You will partner with leadership to shape a personnel strategy aligned with the university’s mission and LCMS identity. Responsibilities include recruiting, employee relations, and developing training and professional development programs, while managing HR operations and budget.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Human Resources, Business, or related field or comparable experience.
• SPHR, SHRM-SCP, or related HR certifications preferred.
• Working knowledge of Title IX, HRIS, and wage compensation systems preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee HR functions: benefits, budget and planning, labor and employee relations, compensation, talent management, HRIS, and compliance.
• Lead recruitment and selection in partnership with university leaders; monitor retention and effectiveness.
• Develop and maintain total compensation philosophy and programs; liaison with external providers for benefits.
• Advise and guide employees on HR policies; ensure compliance with laws and university policies.
• Implement training and development initiatives; serve on Leadership Team; support Staff Council liaison.

Skills

Business acumen

Employment law

Multitasking

Administrative skills

Adaptability

HRIS familiarity

MS Office

Communication skills

Mission alignment

Service mindset

Education

Master's degree in HR or related field

HR certifications (SPHR/SHRM-SCP)

Tools

Microsoft Access

MS Excel

MS Word

PowerPoint

BANNER HRIS

Job description

Concordia University Chicago seeks a full-time Director of Human Resources in River Forest, IL. The role reports to the CFO and oversees benefits, compensation, labor relations, HRIS, and compliance.

You will partner with leadership to shape a personnel strategy aligned with the university’s mission and LCMS identity. Responsibilities include recruiting, employee relations, and developing training and professional development programs, while managing HR operations and budget.