Integrate - Making Employee Handbooks Reflect Your Culture

Integrate: Making Employee Handbooks Reflect Your Culture


Employees complain when you don’t have a handbook, but, when you have one, they don’t want it! An employee handbook is very easy to create, but probably the most overlooked aspect of employment documentation. One thing is for sure: if a company has multiple shifts or multiple locations or just multiple employees, an employee handbook can certainly help keep all employees on the same page. Handbooks are always a delicate subject.

But when done right, and with employee input, this tool can make a difference.

  • Make it reflect your Mission Vision and Values  (MVV)
  • Make it relevant
  • Keep it simple
  • Keep it legal and legit

Reflect your MVV. Your handbook should be an absolute reflection of your MVV, which essentially amplifies your culture. Someone who is unfamiliar with your organization should be able to pick up your handbook and see your heart within its reflection simply by the tone and the guiding principles you lay out for your employees. The front of the handbook should contain your MVV, followed by the President’s message as to why the MVV is important to the company and how it was created.

Make it relevant. Having reviewed hundreds of handbooks over the years, one thing is certain and that is that most are horrible. They are irrelevant, often don’t convey the culture of the organization and are more about preaching or dictating than guiding.

Keep it simple. A handbook should not contain every scrap of information about the company. Worse yet, it should not contain every possible scenario in which an employee violation could occur. Keep it simple and you will have a greater impact than if you over-complicate or over-stimulate the reader. Many employees I’ve spoken with over the years tell me that, if a handbook is interesting, they will read it to learn more about the company, but, if it just rambles on over policy and procedures, most will put it down after two pages. The ideal handbook will inspire the reader to learn — learn more about the company.

Keep it legal and legit. Always ensure you include the appropriate legal clauses. There are far too many to list here but a few that come to mind speak toADA, FMLA, Employment at Will, EEOC etc. You want to make sure you cover your bases.

In closing it is important to note that having a handbook is oftentimes the only opportunity for employers to memorialize what is expected of employees. But always include what employees can expect of you! A handbook should never be a one way street of core policies of the organization; if it is, you will chill the warmth right out of the organization, a chill you will live to regret.

We Value Your Comments. Thank you for taking the time to read our post in this series on how to build “Kingdom Minded” Companies. Please share your thoughts and experiences on employee handbooks. How did the ones that you have used fit your organization? Did they match your culture? Did they drive the behaviors the company and employees desire? Thank you for contributing to our community, and thank you for sharing your thoughts.

Give Your Employees a Hope and a Future

Give Your Employees a Hope and a Future


Jeremiah 29:11(NIV)  11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you,  plans to give you hope and a future.”

I believe that, in today’s tumultuous times, we must remain diligent in our obligations as Christian leaders.  Now, more than ever, Christian leaders must acknowledge that employees want, need and crave an environment in which they can be not only productive but trust that their leadership is attempting to provide them and their family stability, a “hope and a future.”

We must remain diligent in our obligations as Christian leaders.

So what about you? What are you doing to demonstrate to your employees that you are setting the foundation for tomorrow’s growth?  Are you giving them hope and a future?  If you do this, if you honor your employees by properly managing your organization and lighting a path to their future, you will be creating a “Kingdom Minded” organization.”

What have you witnessed in your workplace that has created a culture of creativity, inclusiveness and productivity?  Please share your thoughts and help our community learn from your experiences.

Integrate-After the Mission Vision and Values


Integrate-After the Mission Vision and Values …

 Most leaders, after they finalize the recreation of their Mission Vision and Values (MVV) for their organizations, do what comes naturally — they share it with everyone. If that sounds like you, then it goes out on your website, and it gets printed poster-sized and hung on the walls of your conference rooms and lobby. You mention it consistently for about three months … and then it dies.

It dies because it is not an  intrinsic part of the way you do business.

It is not ingrained into the soul of your company. 

How do you make your Mission Vision and Values a part of the way in which you do business? You integrate it into the practices that are always connected to the people that make it happen — you integrate it into the people who are applying your HR practices. HR practices are practices that touch all employees.

What are some examples of HR practices?

  • Employee Relations
  • Recruitment Management
  • Workforce Planning
  • On Boarding Management
  • Training Management
  • Performance Management
  • Compensation & Benefits
  • Attendance and Leave Management
  • Compensation and Benefits Management
  • Employee Development Skill Management
  • Health & Safety
  • Employee Activities
  • Employment Policy Management

You could probably laundry-list 40-plus practices, but, for the sake of explanation, we are going to provide guidance on six key practices that you can integrate with your MVV quite easily. These six are your:

  1. Handbook
  2. Recruitment Process
  3. Performance Review Process
  4. Job Descriptions
  5. Communication Process
  6. Training and Development

Over the next few weeks, I will walk us through the integration of the MVV into each one of these practices. What has your experience been when integrating these concepts into your company’s practices? Share with us below. We would appreciate hearing your thoughts and stories.

Why Outsourcing Title IX Investigations is Best

Why Outsourcing Title IX Investigations is Best


Does your college or university receive federal funding? If so, you need to be aware of Title IX regulations—failure to comply can result in a loss of your funding.

What exactly is Title IX? Title IX is a statute included in the Education Amendments of 1972 to protect students against sex discrimination. It requires that all schools publish and distribute a policy preventing sex discrimination.

Title IX has strict requirements for the handling of any reports of gender-based incidents on campus, including:

  • assault
  • harassment
  • sexual assault
  • sexual discrimination
  • stalking

Title IX requires that every school appoint a Title IX coordinator to handle compliance with the regulations, oversee the Title IX process, and work with law enforcement in the event of an incident. Title IX coordinators are not allowed to conduct investigations, however, or make any final decisions regarding the outcome of any such events.

Their responsibilities may consist of:

  • Acting as the official contact for Title IX communication.
  • Monitoring incidents and investigations to prevent systemic issues.
  • Keeping an eye on enrollment to identify disproportionate demographics.
  • Participation in drafting and implementing school policies.
  • Ensuring compliance with the school’s discrimination policy.
  • Drafting and distributing any Notice of Discrimination.
  • Setting up and distributing clear reporting tools for Title IX incidents.

All schools must post their Title IX coordinator’s information on their website and communicate this information to students, staff, parents, and all unions.

Title IX investigation process requirements

A Title IX investigation process must allow for prompt and systematic investigations and ensure respect for the rights of all parties involved. Title IX issues can be sensitive, which means neutrality and discretion are paramount.

Given the sensitivity required throughout the process, many institutions understandably prefer to hire a third party to assist in the investigation. Outsourcing investigations also removes any potential conflict of interest and negates concerns around bias. And it insulates victims from the discomfort or awkwardness of seeing their investigator regularly around campus once the case is over.

Often, a third-party investigator works with an internal investigator.

What a Title IX investigation looks like

Title IX investigations can be informal, using mediation to resolve issues between parties. But while informality can save time and resources, it is often deemed inappropriate, given the severe nature of many sex discrimination cases.

Formal investigations follow stringent requirements, which involve distinct phases:

  • All parties are informed of the investigation.
  • Investigators conduct interviews and collect the facts.
  • All information is carefully documented and analyzed.
  • A decision is made about whether an offense was committed.
  • Investigators provide a formal report.
  • All parties are informed of the outcome or the decision made.

Investigations must be systematic and can be time quite time consuming.

Complainants and Respondents: Rights to consider

In conducting investigations, it’s essential to respect the rights of all parties, which exist to provide a fair and unbiased outcome. Title IX coordinators must be well versed in what these rights are and ensure that they are respected.

During an investigation, all parties have the right to:

  • a prompt, unbiased investigation;
  • ask questions and receive information;
  • bring an advisor to all meetings;
  • take an equal part in the process;
  • file a complaint with campus or local law enforcement; and
  • receive access to relevant support services.

Failure to respect and act by these rights can result in legal action against the school.

Why outsourcing is best

There are many reasons to outsource your Title IX investigations. Most schools understand the need for compliance in the face of the withdrawal of funding. Yet, there’s also the risk of a personal lawsuit—indeed, such lawsuits have grown in recent years. Weighing on these factors is the potential for negative publicity. It also can cause morale issues internally if the investigators are deemed to be too close in relationship with the accused.

It’s no wonder so many schools take advantage of independent investigators. External investigators bring with them a wealth of knowledge about Title IX law. They also understand the need to protect student rights, as well as the integrity of the school. With an external investigator, you mitigate any claims of bias or retribution.

Outsourcing communicates a commitment to fairness. It opens the door to an independent and impartial investigation. It eliminates the doubts often expressed with internal investigations.

It also reduces any risk that the student may feel unsupported or that their future may be at risk. In short, hiring a neutral third party instills faith and trust. It shows the world that your institution stands for its staff and students, without compromise.

In HIS Name HR: The Title IX investigative experts

At In HIS Name HR, we have the experts to support educational organizations across the nation. Our experienced and knowledgeable staff provides support that can make all the difference.

What can you expect from an In His Name HR investigation?

  • Professional investigators experienced in policy analysis, conducting interviews, research, and investigation techniques.
  • Objectivity, fairness, and absolute integrity.
  • Expertise to help you provide a safe campus for everyone.
  • Advice on how to resolve issues, including compliance with evolving law and regulations.
  • Options for approaching complainants and respondents to create access and education.

At In HIS Name HR, we build reliable and robust HR programs.

Let us help you with your Title IX investigations. Check out our Services page for more information.

2020 ABHE Financial Officers Conference ~ Orlando, Florida and Virtual

2020 ABHE Financial Officers Conference ~ Orlando, Florida and Virtual


Join us in Orlando Florida

The Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE)

Financial Officers Conference

On-Site and Virtual Options Available

November 5-6, 2020 

Strong institutions are served by astute financial leaders who both accurately manage the financial operations of the organization and provide keen foresight for the financial planning of institutional leaders. Drill one level down and you are quickly immersed into the complex details of effective budgeting and reporting, financial ratios and key performance indicators, governance compliance, auditing standards, HR policy, risk assessment/ management, and the list continues. Embark on this journey of excellence in financial leadership and take your service to your institution and the cause of Christ to a new level.

Employee Relations & Regulations During Crisis

Presenter: Mark Griffin, CEO – In His Name, HR

Overview: For the HR issues of many ABHE institutions, the buck stops at the CFO’s desk. During a crisis, this demands a new level of employee care and understanding. What are the options, implications and regulations for employees? How can an institution best adjust the payroll part of their budget while honoring their staff? Consider:

  • Reviewing the range for employee relations termination, furlough, etc. options
  • Understanding the impact of communications and process respect & honor
  • Knowing the risks and rewards of government payroll assistance opportunities
  • Planning well and minimizing surprises thinking ahead

 

Register Here 

About The Speaker

Mark is an accomplished HR expert with a fresh perspective. He believes in challenging people to think differently when presented with obstacles in any situation. His passions are inspiring, motivating, and helping others. Peers describe Mark as creative, proactive, determined, and eager to learn. Just a few of Mark’s professional skills include organizing, presenting, and problem solving.

Mr. Griffin received his Bachelor of Science degree in Human Resources Administration from Saint Leo University. He earned his MBA from Bloomsburg University while interning for Congressmen Kanjorski as a military liaison during the first Gulf War. Mark has completed several executive education programs at the University of Michigan.

Prior to leading In HIS Name HR, Mark worked for Quaker Oats Company, Kodak Inc., and Merck Inc., and private companies Woolrich, Conestoga Wood Specialties, and Valco Companies Inc.

In addition to helping people professionally, Mark also believes in helping people personally through volunteer work. Mark has coached leaders on “Business as a Mission,” traveling to Eastern Europe, India, Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, and the Dominican Republic.

 

Defending Biblical Principles Resources For Action

Resources For Action


Often we are asked how best to support family values and protect our freedom as Christians when doing business. The same extends to churches, Christian colleges, ministries and camps. The following organizations do just that.

Find an organization that operates in your state and support them. Connect with the leadership; attend functions in person and virtually. Help them get the word out to the community about what they are doing to promote Christian values within your state.

We can all make a difference—but we must be active to do so.

National Focus on the Family

National Alliance Defending Freedom

AL – Alabama Policy Institute

AK – Alaska Family Council

AZ – Center for Arizona Policy

AR – Arkansas Family Council

CA – California Family Council

CO – Colorado Family Action Foundation

CT – Family Institute of Connecticut

DE – Delaware Family Policy Council

FL – Florida Family Policy Council

HI – Hawaii Family Forum

IN – Indiana Family Institute

IA – The Family Leader of Iowa

KY – The Family Foundation of Kentucky

LA – Louisiana Family Forum

ME – Christian Civic League of Maine

MA – Massachusetts Family Institute

MI – Michigan Family Forum

MN – Minnesota Family Institute

MT – Montana Family Foundation

NE – Nebraska Family Alliance

NH – Cornerstone Action

NY – New Yorkers Family Research Foundation

NC – North Carolina Family Policy Council

OH – Citizens for Community Values

OK – Family Policy Institute of Oklahoma

PA – Pennsylvania Family Institute

SC – Palmetto Family Council of South Carolina

SD – Family Heritage Alliance

TN – Family Action Council of Tennessee

TX – Texas Values

VA – The Family Foundation of Virginia

WA – Family Policy Institute of Washington

WV – Family Policy Council of West Virginia

WI – Wisconsin Family Council, Inc.

Worried about your HR programs at your organization? Reach out to us to discuss having a trusted partner to guide you and your team to excellence.

Contact us today. You—and your employees—will be glad you did.

In His Name HR helps organizations build high-performance human resource programs. Visit them at In HIS Name HR or e-mail them here.

Mark A. Griffin is the founder and chief consultant of In His Name HR LLC. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.

 

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Supreme Court Upholds Workplace LGBTQ Protections

What Should Churches, Christian Colleges & Camps Do About the LGBTQ Ruling?


Supreme Court Upholds Workplace LGBTQ Protections

In case you haven’t already heard, the Supreme Court recently ruled, on the basis of Title VII, that discrimination against LGBTQ workers is prohibited.

According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, “Title VII prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex and national origin.”

Some states, like California and New York, already had this ruling in place. However, the Supreme Court passed this ruling for all states.

You may wonder…

  1. How does this affect your church or nonprofit organization?
  2. What about religious colleges and camps?
  3. Are non-ministerial positions affected?

These are valid questions. What we know right now:

  1. Ministers and clergy are exempt from discrimination disputes that include sexual orientation or transgender issues.
  2. Religious employers, including colleges and camps, are also exempt. (However, this might change if the Supreme Court overturns the exemption.)
  3. Religious organizations are exempt, which includes non-ministerial positions.

4 Steps You Can Take to Preserve Your Protections

Although religious employers and organizations are exempt, there are four steps you should take to protect yourself from liability, should they arise.

1.   Document Religious Beliefs

Document your religious beliefs regarding human sexuality and marriage in your statement of faith, bylaws, employee handbook, and staff lifestyle/covenant agreements.

Make sure your employees sign these agreements. Discuss these documents with your staff yearly to ensure everyone is on the same page.

When your beliefs are listed, in writing (specifically on human sexuality and marriage), it can be used as documentation to affirm your exemption, if needed.

2.   Update Job Descriptions

Create job descriptions that detail the functions of each position in a religious establishment.

Think about how this position (even if it’s non-ministerial) plays a crucial role in the religious function of your organization.

To be safe, include spiritual requirements or your statement of faith in the posting of the description.

3.   Be Clear Throughout the Hiring Process

Remain consistent through the hiring process. Be clear about the requirement that candidates align with your statement of faith.

Only accept applications where applicants share the same religious beliefs.

Continue to communicate your religious beliefs throughout the process of the hiring and onboarding process.

4.   Consult a Legal Professional

If you’re unsure or just want to ensure all the i’s are dotted and the t’s crossed, consult a legal professional to assess any potential risks.

There are some great law firms that deal specifically with nonprofits and religious organizations. What we provide here does not constitute legal advice. Please read this disclaimer if you have any questions regarding the information here.

Two Recent Rulings That Support Religious Organizations

  1. Our Lady of Guadalupe School v. Morrissey-Berru
  2. James School v. Biel.

Highlights

In both cases, two teachers at Catholic schools were not offered contract renewals. Both teachers filed discrimination claims in federal district court against their former employers. The court ruled that both schools were protected religious organizations, exempt from anti-discrimination employment laws.

Both teachers appealed to federal circuit court, which reversed the district court’s ruling in one case and denied petition for rehearing, and for rehearing en banc, in the second case.

The Issue at Hand:

Whether the First Amendment’s religion clauses prevent civil courts from adjudicating employment-discrimination claims brought by an employee against their religious employer when the employee carries out important religious functions.

Status

Important news for religious organizations. On July 8, 2020 (during the time of the writing of this post!), the U.S. Supreme Court consolidated both cases and, In Our Lady of Guadalupe School v. Morrissey-Berru, the justices held that employment discrimination suits by the teachers fired by Catholic elementary schools are barred by the First Amendment’s “ministerial exception.”

What if the exemptions change?

Some of these exemptions might be subject to change. There are still court cases, specifically regarding religious colleges, on whether teachers should be exempt from this ruling or not.

Depending on the outcome of these cases, the exemption on religious colleges might be overturned.

If this does happen, the atmosphere of many religious colleges would change. What might we do then?

A passage in the book of Romans offers us insight:

“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” (Romans 13:1–2 NIV)

This passage tells us that we should obey the law of the land, because it has been ordained by God.

But what if the law of the land goes against God’s law?

Does God’s law supersede the law of the land?

The Story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego

King Nebuchadnezzar issues a decree that “everyone who hears the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipe, and all kinds of music, must fall down and worship the image of gold that King Nebuchadnezzar has set up.” (Romans 3:5 NIV)

Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were faithful Jews who followed the ways of the Lord. They refused to worship idols or other gods. Because of their disobedience to King Nebuchadnezzar, they were brought before him to undergo punishment.

The punishment?

To be thrown into a blazing furnace!

King Nebuchadnezzar gave them one more chance to obey him and bow down to the idol.

How did Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego respond?

“King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and He will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. But even if He does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” (Daniel 3:16-18 NIV)

Because of their unwillingness to bow to the idol, they were tied up and thrown into the furnace.

But the story doesn’t end there.

God rescues the three men of faith and they emerge unharmed.

Final Thoughts

If the law of the land conflicts with God’s law, we are instructed to follow God’s law.

There have been many points in history where Christians have had to follow God’s law rather than the law of the land. Many martyrs of the faith have demonstrated this. Though no one in any religious organization is likely to face losing their life, we most certainly do run the risk of losing rights, funding, access to resources, and lose our reputation in the broader community.

As the courts and culture continue to shift away from a historic Christian worldview, it may become more difficult to live out our faith. When faced with difficult situations, I find it easiest to revert to loving everyone. We can’t expect those who don’t align with biblical teaching to act as if they do. Be patient. We are called to love others and we should deal with these matters with grace.

That said, I pray you are encouraged and remember to maintain kindness when dealing with controversial topics such as this. We are facing ever-changing tumultuous times in the workplace. Our beliefs are being challenged and many are waning in their strength to support the gospel of Jesus Christ. Stay strong, and always remember that the truth will always remain the same, yesterday, today and tomorrow.

To learn more:

Also check out our Resources for Action Here 

—————————-

Mark Griffin is founder and chief consultant at In HIS Name HR LLC, and has over 25 years of HR experience.

Are you or your organization struggling to navigate these tumultuous times? Contact us by e-mail here.

Stay current on all the latest HR trends that affect the workplace. Follow In HIS Name HR LLC on FacebookTwitter and LinkedIn.

 

Using a Third-Party Workplace Complaint Investigator Is Critical to Your Success

Using a Third-Party Workplace Complaint Investigator Is Critical to Your Success


Benefits of Outsourcing Workplace Investigations

No organization, no matter how well run, is immune to employee workplace complaints. Whether you employ fewer than 50 employees or manage thousands, some form of complaint will inevitably be filed against your organization or one or more of its members. In our wide experience, which spans for-profit and nonprofit organizations, including colleges, universities, churches and ministries, we have witnessed complaints filed in a variety of areas, including:

  • Discrimination (e.g., gender, disability, religion, race, age)
  • Harassment (sexual and nonsexual)
  • Bullying
  • Theft or other ethical impropriety
  • Violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act
  • FMLA and medical-related leave issues
  • Reprisals against whistleblowers

With the potential liability being so high, and the risk of negative publicity, the benefits of using an independent investigator are not to be dismissed: External independent investigators demonstrate and support an organization’s integrity and desire for objectivity, protect the confidentiality of its operations that an internal conflict of interest could otherwise jeopardize, and insulate the employer from claims of retribution toward whistleblowers.

Integrity/objectivity

When an organization outsources an investigation to an independent, external specialist, it demonstrates to its employees that it is intent on doing the right thing: to permit the impartial examination of the events in question, irrespective of the outcome. In contrast, when an investigation is performed internally, such as by a manager employed by the company, it’s understandable that the employee might fear their complaint could cast a shadow over their future at the company, whether consciously or unconsciously, particularly if they have any dealings with that manager. There’s no shortage these days of bad publicity when an organization appears to dismiss or bury a complaint or retaliate against the complainant, whether it’s in public or private companies or within our government.

Avoid conflicts of interest and protect confidentiality

If you’re thinking that you can safely delegate workplace complaints and violations to in-house counsel, we urge you to think again. Should the complainant feel their complaint was not handled impartially or that they’ve been subject to harassment or retribution attempts, you might well find your organization facing a lawsuit. Should it go to trial, the prosecuting attorney will look for any signs of conflict of interest and/or lack of impartiality that suggests the internal investigation was flawed. And you might find your in-house counsel on the stand, testifying to conversations and dealings you assumed would be protected by attorney-client privilege but were forced to waive. An independent investigator, on the other hand, can only testify to what their investigation of the pertinent circumstances revealed.

The experienced investigators used by In His Name HR are independent of your organization, with numerous similar investigations under their belt with findings both for and against employers, further highlighting their impartiality. For example, our investigators refrain from using words like “we” and “us,” making it obvious to both judge and jury that no relationship between them and the organization exists that would tip the investigation in the organization’s favor. Again, an outside investigator does not represent the organization, and their statements are limited only to what they learned in the investigation—nothing else.

Allay employee fears of retribution

in our experience, most human resources managers and other authority figures do not treat employees differently when concerns are aired about the organization, or even about individual managers. Still, it’s understandable that such an employee might have concerns or fears that raising an issue might negatively impact their career path or even result in retribution. For example, a complainant who has been passed over for promotion months after they filed a complaint might see things differently.

We have spoken to employees who participated in internal investigations who said that the internal investigator now “sees me as a problem, or a complainer.” Most internal investigators are trained and prepared for this. However, whether real or perceived, it is an issue. Even if the internal investigator can separate what was said in the complaint and operate objectively going forward, participants may likely never be convinced that the internal investigator can “unhear” what was said and not be influenced by it.

When you use an outside investigator, however, those concerns are allayed. A third-party investigator can conduct a full, independent investigation while the organization and employees carry on the business at hand without employees fearing future effects.

The bottom line

Is this a cause for concern? It should be. We work in difficult times, under increased scrutiny. Complaints are on the rise—sometimes daily. HR departments are overburdened. With the news escalating in the media surrounding harassment, discrimination, and hostile work environments, employee complaints have now reached record levels.

Let us allay your concerns. Reach out to us to discuss having a trusted partner to guide you and your team in the event a complaint arises.

Contact us today. You—and your employees—will be glad you did.

In His Name HR helps organizations build high-performance human resource programs. Visit them at In HIS Name HR or e-mail them here.

Mark A. Griffin is the founder and chief consultant of In His Name HR LLC. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.

 

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Director of Human Resources in Upland, IN for Taylor University


(Position Closed) 

Human Resources Director Opportunity

The mission of Taylor University, a private, interdenominational, evangelical Christian college, is to develop servant leaders to minister Christ’s redemptive love and truth to a world in need. Does this sound like your ideal work environment?

For the 12th time in 13 years, Taylor has been ranked No. 1 in the Midwest by US News & World Report’s survey of America’s Best Colleges, and ranked in the top three for the last 23 years.

Leading a team of three full-time employees and three student workers, Taylor’s HR director actively participates in the strategic thinking process regarding its human resources. The director is responsible to assess, review, recommend, develop, and implement policies, procedures, services, and systems in the appropriate legal, higher education industry, and organizational culture contexts, all of which are imperative to ensure success.

The HR director structures employee and workforce processes and policies that promote and embrace Kingdom diversity. This includes working closely with the Vice President for Intercultural Leadership and Church Relations to establish networks with potential candidates from under-represented groups, and by creating programs to increase the recruitment and retention of a diverse workforce.

Core Responsibilities:

  • Collaborates with senior leadership to understand the organization’s goals and strategy related to staffing, recruiting, and retention. Supports management by providing human resource advice, counsel, and decisions.
  • Plans, leads, develops, coordinates, and implements policies, processes, training, initiatives, and surveys to support the university’s human resource compliance and strategy needs.
  • Administration and compliance of human resource programs, including:
    • Compensation and benefits
    • Leaves of absence
    • Disciplinary matters
    • Disputes and investigations
    • Performance and talent management
    • Recognition and morale
    • Occupational health and safety and workers’ compensation
    • Job descriptions; exempt and non-exempt guidelines
    • University staff handbook
    • Serving in a key Title IX role on campus

Responsible for significantly influencing the university workforce in these key areas:

Employee Relations/Individual Employee Assistance – Serves as the primary contact for university policies and works with individual employees to encourage development of their professional life. Involves guiding individuals through challenging situations and being the primary contact for university policies (such as anti-harassment).

Employee Training and Development – Develops with other university leaders the university’s training and development program. Serves as the primary person responsible to develop and maintain the programs and structures for employee development, including new-employee orientation, reviews, legal training including faculty (FMLA, ADA, etc.), and other university initiatives.

HR Systems and Practices – Leads the department in developing and implementing effective and efficient HR systems to promote quality employee support from hiring through any transitioning from the university.

HR Policy Development, Implementation, and Review – Systematically reviews HR policies and procedures to ensure a work environment that facilitates human flourishing while managing strategic resources.

HR Assessment and Strategy – Uses tested HR strategies to ensure the success of employees in their work. Reviews the mission and direction of the university, along with other university-wide strategies, and applies them to the areas managed by the human resource function in such areas as compensation and benefits, employee onboarding, retirement planning, and more.

Compliance – Ensures compliance in all areas of the HR function, e.g., the Affordable Care Act (ACA), FMLA, EEO, and ADA.

Required Skills & Abilities Include:

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Position Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field
  • 10-plus years of human resource management experience (in addition, 3-plus years of human resources management experience in higher education is preferred)
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office products, video conference systems, and G Suite products
  • Proficiency with or the ability to quickly learn the organization’s HRIS and talent management systems such as Banner and Silkroad
  • Complete support of and willing adherence to Taylor University’s mission, vision, foundational documents, and core values. Applicant must hold these standards as their own

Location: Upland, Indiana.

Cover letter should include why you should be considered for the position, what makes you the best candidate, and how you will support and further the mission of Taylor University.

Send your confidential inquiry to Email HR Team no later than July 15, 2020.

E.O.E. m/f/h/v