★ HRBP MODEL

While embedded HR staff (most commonly VPC or HR Business Partners) were not part of Central HR under the previous service delivery model, this investment in an expanded HR Business Partner role will create a network connected to Central HR that is responsive to local needs and supplements the good work that is already taking place to support HR needs. The HR Business Partners will provide high level strategic and consultative guidance and support to the areas they serve and will bring consistency in HR practices and the application of policies and processes across the university.  

In this implementation phase, the detailed structures and roles for the HR Business Partners and supporting HR roles and specific HR services and workflows will be finalized, and the structure will start being implemented in Divisions and Colleges.

What's Next

HRBP implementation team

The HRBP implementation team is expected to continue its work through June 2024 to refine and finalize the HRBP structure. The team charge is listed below.

Leadersip role for the HR Business Partnerships and Services

Continue the search and selection process for the new leadership role in Central HR to oversee and support the network of HRBPs.

Talking Points & Informational Sessions

Leaders will be equipped to answer questions and we look forward to hosting informational sessions as well in the new year.

What's in it for me?

• This new model will help to ensure consistently high levels of dedicated HR service and expertise is provided to all areas of the university.
• It will also fill gaps in some areas on campus that have not had dedicated HR support and services 
• The new structure, along with redesigned and streamlined HR processes and new technology, are intended to make work more efficient and reduce administrative burdens on our faculty and staff
• It will also bring much needed consistency in HR practices and application of policies and processes across the university, and reduce institutional risk
• It is also expected to provide new opportunities for growth for those interested in a career path in HR
• Additionally, it will expand support for attracting, developing, supporting, and retaining our faculty and staff

PHASE 2 - Completed

Design Phase

A steering committee was organized to determine the best approach for modernizing the HR service delivery model for the faculty and staff of tomorrow, with input and guidance from the Segal Consulting Team based on the information gathered in phase one. The team represented a variety of campus offices, organizations and employees — all working in a transparent, collaborative and inclusive way. These meetings concluded in June of 2023.

At conclusion, the HR Now Steering Committee completed its foundational work and provided recommendations for strengthening embedded HR support across the university. Their recommendation for a new HRBP model included finalizing the design of services and workflows, as well as finalizing the structure and roles for the HR Business Partners, including standard position description and supporting HR roles.

Team Charge

Oversee implementation and roll out of the new HR Business Partner (HRBP) model:

• Define detailed elements of HRBP role and areas of responsibilities
• Determine decision-making authority and processes between HRBPs and Central HR
• Confirm detailed workflows between the HRBP and Central HR
• Confirm distribution, number, and placement of HRBPs across the campus
• Define structure, support and administrative structures and roles underneath the HRBP
• Evaluate impact on workloads and capacity in Central HR and recommend adjustments in staffing and roles as needed
• Determine the necessary competencies, skills and experience required for HRBP and supporting HR roles
• Finalize timeline and sequencing of new positions
• Identify mechanisms for Deans, VPs, Central HR and other leaders to provide regular feedback on the model and adjust as needed
• Identify a process and approach for consistent application of HR policies and processes across the campus under the new model