Human Resources Director

Human Resources DirectorThe University of West Los Angeles (UWLA) is seeking an experienced and strategic Human Resources Director to lead and oversee all aspects of the university's human resources operations. This role is responsible for developing and implementing HR policies, ensuring legal compliance, supporting leadership, and fostering a positive and high-performing workplace culture.The ideal candidate is a seasoned HR professional with strong leadership experience, deep knowledge of California employment law, and a background in higher education or similarly regulated environments.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic LeadershipMaintain, develop, and implement HR strategies aligned with UWLA's mission and growth objectivesServe as a trusted advisor and partner to help guide the executive leadership in HR mattersSustain and build scalable HR systems and processesTakes ownership and is proactive to the HR needs of the institutionCompliance & Risk ManagementEnsure compliance with federal, state, and local employment lawsOversee, maintain, and develop policies and employee handbooksConduct and/or manage investigations and employee relations issuesTalent Acquisition & RetentionOversee full-cycle recruitment (onboarding through separation)Develop and implement hiring strategiesImplement onboarding and retention programsEmployee RelationsProvide guidance and take ownership of performance and discipline review processFoster a professional and inclusive cultureHandle sensitive and privileged employee mattersCompensation & BenefitsMake recommendations for compensation structures and benefitsConduct salary benchmarkingOversee payroll coordinationPerformance Management & DevelopmentImplement and initiate the oversight of performance reviewsSupport employee growth and trainingHR OperationsOversee the management of HR systems and recordkeepingEnsure audit readiness and complianceMaintain confidentiality of records and communicationsUniversity Operations:Collaborate with department heads to streamline and improve operational processes.Coordinate facility management and maintenance tasks.Support the planning and execution of university events and activities.Identify areas for process improvement and implement solutions as needed.Assist the University President on various tasks and projects.QualificationsRequiredBachelor's degree in HR, Business, or related field5+ years HR experience, including leadershipStrong knowledge of California employment lawExperience in employee relations and complianceAbility to come into the office in Los Angeles/Culver City or Woodland Hills at least once a month.PreferredMaster's degree in HR, Business, or related fieldSHRM or PHR certificationExperience in higher education or regulated environmentsFamiliarity with immigration-related employment frameworksExperience in the Private For-Profit sectorFamiliarity with Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972 is a federal civil rights law (20 U.S.C. §1681-§1688)Key CompetenciesStrategic thinkingStrong communication skillsHigh discretion and professionalismProblem-solving and conflict resolutionCompensationCompetitive salary commensurate with experience, plus benefits including health, retirement, and paid time off. The salary range for this position is $100,000-$120,000 per year, based on a good faith estimate of what we reasonably expect to pay at hire. Actual compensation will depend on factors such as experience and skills.Why UWLAJoin a mission-driven institution dedicated to student success and global impact. This is an opportunity to build and shape HR infrastructure at a growing university.