What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chief Human Resources Officer position at Oregon State University?
Position Details
Position Information
Department Univ Human Resources Central (XHR)
Position Title Executive 3-HR
Job Title Chief Human Resources Officer
Appointment Type Professional Faculty
Job Location Corvallis
Benefits Eligible Full-Time, benefits eligible
Remote or Hybrid option?
Job Summary
The Chief Human Resources Officer ( CHRO ) is a strategic, mission-driven, and transformative HR executive responsible for leading OSU’s comprehensive human resources enterprise. The CHRO sets the vision for a modern, data-informed, and people-centered HR function that delivers excellence in service, builds organizational capacity, and strengthens the employee experience across all OSU campuses and statewide locations. The CHRO is the principal architect of OSU’s people strategy, ensuring that HR services and programs are delivered with integrity, equity, transparency, and accountability. This leader upholds HR practices that reflect OSU’s values, its land grant mission, and its commitment to inclusive excellence.
As head of the Office of University Human Resources ( UHR ), the CHRO sets and executes the strategic direction for a comprehensive human resources enterprise that supports OSU’s mission as a premier land grant and R1 research institution. With more than 100 professionals responsible for delivering the full spectrum of HR services to a workforce of over 17,000 employees, UHR encompasses benefits and wellness, academic human resources, classification and compensation, employee and labor relations, HR strategic partners, learning and development, HR compliance, recruitment and talent acquisition, and student employment. The CHRO is also responsible for ensuring collaborative and transparent interactions with OSU’s four employee unions , which represent approximately 3,500 employees. The CHRO exercises significant autonomy in establishing direction, setting priorities, and allocating resources across a decentralized institution.
The position carries university-wide responsibility for shaping and implementing HR strategy, policy, and practice. The CHRO’s decisions have a substantial impact on institutional operations, legal and regulatory compliance, labor relations, and the overall employee experience. The CHRO partners closely with academic leaders, including the Senior Vice Provost for Academic Affairs, deans, and academic leaders on faculty and academic human resources matters and works with department heads to enable effective workforce operations. Key partners also include the Office of General Counsel, the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access, Government Relations, and shared governance bodies. The CHRO also represents OSU in state, regional, and national HR networks and plays a leadership role in assessing, anticipating and responding to evolving HR legislation and workforce trends.
This role demands a strategic and collaborative HR leader with deep expertise in large, complex institutions – ideally public research universities – who brings the ability to manage the unique requirements of academic human resources, promotion and tenure, workforce planning in research-intensive environments, and the integration of HR strategy with academic priorities.
The expected hiring range for this position is $280,000-$325,000. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure, certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience.
Why OSU?
Founded in 1868, Oregon State University is the state’s largest public research university and one of only three land, sea, space, and sun grant institutions in the United States. With campuses in Corvallis and Bend, a robust online presence through Ecampus , and Extension services in every Oregon county, OSU serves more than 35,000 students from across the globe. The university is recognized for its world-class research, teaching, and outreach, and is committed to advancing equity, sustainability and economic prosperity throughout Oregon and beyond.
OSU’s strategic plan, Prosperity Widely Shared , reflects its commitment to inclusive excellence, student success, faculty distinction and research growth. The university is a top-tier R1 institution, with more than $400 million in annual research expenditures and a strong reputation in fields such as forestry, marine sciences, engineering, public health and agricultural sciences.
The university is entering a transformative period marked by two major institutional initiatives:
The Huang Collaborative Innovation Complex ( HCIC ) : Opening in 2026, the state-of-the-art interdisciplinary research center will house one of the nation’s most advanced supercomputers and service as a hub for innovation in AI, robotics, clean energy, materials science and semiconductor research.
The Administrative Modernization Program ( AMP ) : A comprehensive multi-year transformation of HR, finance, procurement and grants administration that includes OSU’s implementation of Workday in July 2026. AMP will modernize workforce systems, streamline administrative processes, elevate service delivery across the university and fundamentally redesign the way administration is implemented and experienced at the university.
Together, these initiatives position OSU for significant growth in research, talent development and organizational excellence, offering the next CHRO an unparalleled opportunity to shape the university’s workforce strategy during a defining moment in its evolution.
Corvallis Oregon
Nestled in the heart of the Willamette Valley , Corvallis is a vibrant college town known for its natural beauty, innovation and quality of life. Home to OSU’s main campus, Corvallis is consistently ranked among the best college towns in America and offers a welcoming environment grounded in curiosity, sustainability and community engagement.
Corvallis is surrounded by forests, rivers and farmland, offering abundant outdoor recreation, hiking, cycling, kayaking and access to world-class natural landscapes. Its thriving arts and cultural scene, local food movement and deep connection to OSU create a dynamic and creative community. The city’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its walkability, bike-friendly infrastructure and innovative environmental policies.
Located just 90 minutes from Portland and the Oregon Coast, Corvallis offers easy access to metropolitan amenities, international travel hubs and stunning Pacific Northwest landscapes.
To learn more about Corvallis, please visit https://www.visitcorvallis.com/
Total Rewards Package:
Oregon State University offers a comprehensive benefits package with benefits-eligible positions that is designed to meet the needs of employees and their families, including:
Future and current OSU employees can use the Benefits Calculator to learn more about the full value of the benefits provided at OSU .
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership – 55%
Lead the design and execution of HR strategies that attract, retain, and develop a diverse, high-performing workforce aligned with the university’s strategic plan.
Serve as a trusted advisor and colleague to the President’s Executive Cabinet, Provost’s Council, deans, and senior leaders on workforce strategy, organizational development, and talent management.
Partner closely with academic leadership to align HR policies and practices with academic and faculty affairs and academic priorities. Promotion and tenure, faculty development, and enabling the research enterprise are critical functions of the university and HR must be aligned with them.
Supervise and empower director-level leaders in University Human Resources ( UHR ) by fostering trust and collaboration. Cultivate an environment where individuals are encouraged to lead with empathy, integrity, and purpose. Provide guidance and mentorship that aligns with organizational values and promotes leadership capacity.
Guide the university’s approach to collective bargaining and labor relations, fostering collaborative relationships with employee groups and unions, through a lens of sustainability and alignment with the university’s strategic plan and values.
Operational Oversight – 30%
Direct and integrate HR service areas: benefits and wellness, academic HR, classification and compensation, employee and labor relations, HR strategic partners, learning and development, HR compliance, recruitment, and student employment.
Oversee the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of HR systems, policies, and programs to ensure compliance, effectiveness, and efficiency.
Oversee budgeting and resource management for the HR function.
Culture, Equity, and Engagement – 15%
Champion inclusive excellence in all aspects of HR operations and workforce practices.
Foster a culture of engagement, well-being, recognition, and accountability for employees at all levels.
Support organizational learning, leadership development, and workforce resilience to position OSU for long-term success.
What You Will Need
The new CHRO will become a member of a collaborative, supportive and highly engaged leadership team. University leadership anticipates and appreciates that each candidate will possess strengths in different measures. Nonetheless, the successful candidate will bring a majority of the following qualities to the role:
What We Would Like You To Have
Primarily office-based at OSU Corvallis Campus. Work schedule may include non-standard hours and periodic travel, including regular travel to OSU locations statewide.
Pay Method Salary
Pay Period 1st through the last day of the month
Pay Date Last working day of the month
Recommended Full-Time Salary Range $280,000-$325,000
Link To Position Description
https://jobs.oregonstate.edu/hr/position_descriptions/21766
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number P09600UF
Number of Vacancies 1
Anticipated Appointment Begin Date 04/01/2026
Anticipated Appointment End Date
Posting Date 12/10/2025
Full Consideration Date
Closing Date 02/13/2026
Indicate how you intend to recruit for this search Competitive / External - open to ALL qualified applicants
Special Instructions to Applicants
Oregon State University has retained Opus Partners to support this recruitment. Confidential inquiries, applications, and nominations should be submitted by email to Thomas at thomas.lapierre@opuspartners.net .
To be considered by OSU’s search committee, candidates must provide a resume and a letter of introduction that addresses the specific responsibilities, expectations, and qualifications described above. Please consult Opus Partners for more information about the application process.
NO APPLICATIONS ARE BEING ACCEPTED THROUGH THIS ANNOUNCEMENT
For more information on OSU’s benefits, please visit https://hr.oregonstate.edu/benefits .
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability, protected veteran, and other protected status. OSU will conduct a review of the National Sex Offender Public website prior to hire.
OSU is a fair chance employer committed to inclusive hiring. We encourage applications from candidates who bring a wide range of lived experience including involvement with the justice system. This job has “critical or security-sensitive” responsibilities. If you are selected as a finalist, your initial job offer will be contingent upon the results of a job-related pre-employment check (such as a background check, motor vehicle history check, sexual misconduct reference check, etc.). Background check results do not automatically disqualify a candidate. Take a look at our Background Checks website including the for candidates section for more details. If you have questions or concerns about the pre-employment check, please contact OSU’s Employee and Labor Relations team at employee.relations@oregonstate.edu .
Position Information
Department Univ Human Resources Central (XHR)
Position Title Executive 3-HR
Job Title Chief Human Resources Officer
Appointment Type Professional Faculty
Job Location Corvallis
Benefits Eligible Full-Time, benefits eligible
Remote or Hybrid option?
Job Summary
The Chief Human Resources Officer ( CHRO ) is a strategic, mission-driven, and transformative HR executive responsible for leading OSU’s comprehensive human resources enterprise. The CHRO sets the vision for a modern, data-informed, and people-centered HR function that delivers excellence in service, builds organizational capacity, and strengthens the employee experience across all OSU campuses and statewide locations. The CHRO is the principal architect of OSU’s people strategy, ensuring that HR services and programs are delivered with integrity, equity, transparency, and accountability. This leader upholds HR practices that reflect OSU’s values, its land grant mission, and its commitment to inclusive excellence.
As head of the Office of University Human Resources ( UHR ), the CHRO sets and executes the strategic direction for a comprehensive human resources enterprise that supports OSU’s mission as a premier land grant and R1 research institution. With more than 100 professionals responsible for delivering the full spectrum of HR services to a workforce of over 17,000 employees, UHR encompasses benefits and wellness, academic human resources, classification and compensation, employee and labor relations, HR strategic partners, learning and development, HR compliance, recruitment and talent acquisition, and student employment. The CHRO is also responsible for ensuring collaborative and transparent interactions with OSU’s four employee unions , which represent approximately 3,500 employees. The CHRO exercises significant autonomy in establishing direction, setting priorities, and allocating resources across a decentralized institution.
The position carries university-wide responsibility for shaping and implementing HR strategy, policy, and practice. The CHRO’s decisions have a substantial impact on institutional operations, legal and regulatory compliance, labor relations, and the overall employee experience. The CHRO partners closely with academic leaders, including the Senior Vice Provost for Academic Affairs, deans, and academic leaders on faculty and academic human resources matters and works with department heads to enable effective workforce operations. Key partners also include the Office of General Counsel, the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access, Government Relations, and shared governance bodies. The CHRO also represents OSU in state, regional, and national HR networks and plays a leadership role in assessing, anticipating and responding to evolving HR legislation and workforce trends.
This role demands a strategic and collaborative HR leader with deep expertise in large, complex institutions – ideally public research universities – who brings the ability to manage the unique requirements of academic human resources, promotion and tenure, workforce planning in research-intensive environments, and the integration of HR strategy with academic priorities.
The expected hiring range for this position is $280,000-$325,000. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure, certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience.
Why OSU?
Founded in 1868, Oregon State University is the state’s largest public research university and one of only three land, sea, space, and sun grant institutions in the United States. With campuses in Corvallis and Bend, a robust online presence through Ecampus , and Extension services in every Oregon county, OSU serves more than 35,000 students from across the globe. The university is recognized for its world-class research, teaching, and outreach, and is committed to advancing equity, sustainability and economic prosperity throughout Oregon and beyond.
OSU’s strategic plan, Prosperity Widely Shared , reflects its commitment to inclusive excellence, student success, faculty distinction and research growth. The university is a top-tier R1 institution, with more than $400 million in annual research expenditures and a strong reputation in fields such as forestry, marine sciences, engineering, public health and agricultural sciences.
The university is entering a transformative period marked by two major institutional initiatives:
The Huang Collaborative Innovation Complex ( HCIC ) : Opening in 2026, the state-of-the-art interdisciplinary research center will house one of the nation’s most advanced supercomputers and service as a hub for innovation in AI, robotics, clean energy, materials science and semiconductor research.
The Administrative Modernization Program ( AMP ) : A comprehensive multi-year transformation of HR, finance, procurement and grants administration that includes OSU’s implementation of Workday in July 2026. AMP will modernize workforce systems, streamline administrative processes, elevate service delivery across the university and fundamentally redesign the way administration is implemented and experienced at the university.
Together, these initiatives position OSU for significant growth in research, talent development and organizational excellence, offering the next CHRO an unparalleled opportunity to shape the university’s workforce strategy during a defining moment in its evolution.
Corvallis Oregon
Nestled in the heart of the Willamette Valley , Corvallis is a vibrant college town known for its natural beauty, innovation and quality of life. Home to OSU’s main campus, Corvallis is consistently ranked among the best college towns in America and offers a welcoming environment grounded in curiosity, sustainability and community engagement.
Corvallis is surrounded by forests, rivers and farmland, offering abundant outdoor recreation, hiking, cycling, kayaking and access to world-class natural landscapes. Its thriving arts and cultural scene, local food movement and deep connection to OSU create a dynamic and creative community. The city’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its walkability, bike-friendly infrastructure and innovative environmental policies.
Located just 90 minutes from Portland and the Oregon Coast, Corvallis offers easy access to metropolitan amenities, international travel hubs and stunning Pacific Northwest landscapes.
To learn more about Corvallis, please visit https://www.visitcorvallis.com/
Total Rewards Package:
Oregon State University offers a comprehensive benefits package with benefits-eligible positions that is designed to meet the needs of employees and their families, including:
- Medical, Dental, Vision and Basic Life. OSU pays 95% of premiums for you and your eligible dependents.
- Free confidential mental health and emotional support services, and counseling resources.
- Retirement savings paid by the university.
- A generous paid leave package, including holidays, vacation and sick leave.
- Tuition reduction benefits for you or your qualifying dependents at OSU or the additional six Oregon Public Universities.
- Robust Work Life programs including Dual Career assistance resources, flexible work arrangements, a Family Resource Center, Affinity Groups and an Employee Assistance Program.
- Optional lifestyle benefits such as pet, accident, and critical illness insurance, giving you peace of mind and the support you need to thrive in all aspects of your life.
Future and current OSU employees can use the Benefits Calculator to learn more about the full value of the benefits provided at OSU .
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership – 55%
Lead the design and execution of HR strategies that attract, retain, and develop a diverse, high-performing workforce aligned with the university’s strategic plan.
Serve as a trusted advisor and colleague to the President’s Executive Cabinet, Provost’s Council, deans, and senior leaders on workforce strategy, organizational development, and talent management.
Partner closely with academic leadership to align HR policies and practices with academic and faculty affairs and academic priorities. Promotion and tenure, faculty development, and enabling the research enterprise are critical functions of the university and HR must be aligned with them.
Supervise and empower director-level leaders in University Human Resources ( UHR ) by fostering trust and collaboration. Cultivate an environment where individuals are encouraged to lead with empathy, integrity, and purpose. Provide guidance and mentorship that aligns with organizational values and promotes leadership capacity.
Guide the university’s approach to collective bargaining and labor relations, fostering collaborative relationships with employee groups and unions, through a lens of sustainability and alignment with the university’s strategic plan and values.
Operational Oversight – 30%
Direct and integrate HR service areas: benefits and wellness, academic HR, classification and compensation, employee and labor relations, HR strategic partners, learning and development, HR compliance, recruitment, and student employment.
Oversee the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of HR systems, policies, and programs to ensure compliance, effectiveness, and efficiency.
Oversee budgeting and resource management for the HR function.
Culture, Equity, and Engagement – 15%
Champion inclusive excellence in all aspects of HR operations and workforce practices.
Foster a culture of engagement, well-being, recognition, and accountability for employees at all levels.
Support organizational learning, leadership development, and workforce resilience to position OSU for long-term success.
What You Will Need
The new CHRO will become a member of a collaborative, supportive and highly engaged leadership team. University leadership anticipates and appreciates that each candidate will possess strengths in different measures. Nonetheless, the successful candidate will bring a majority of the following qualities to the role:
- Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, higher education or a related field, such as labor relations, industrial psychology, leadership or organizational development. Other relevant skills, experience and competencies that provide the candidate with the skills and ability to perform the role may be considered as a substitution for the degree requirement.
- At least 10 years of progressively responsible human resources leadership experience, or other relevant skills, experiences and competencies that provide the candidate with the skills and ability to perform the role
- Demonstrated expertise in human resources leadership within large, complex organizations
- Strong knowledge of employment law, employee and labor relations and HR compliance
- Proven ability to lead organizational change, foster inclusive workplace culture and advance inclusive excellence while providing exceptional communication, negotiation and relationship-building across diverse stakeholders and governance groups
- Strategic thinker with the ability to align HR initiatives with institutional goals while ensuring effective operational execution
- Ability to operate effectively in a decentralized and collaborative academic environment
- Experience managing HRIS systems
- Data-informed decision-making skills, with experience applying workforce data analytics and HR technology to improve outcomes, workforce planning and decision-making
- Experience with compensation frameworks and establishing guidelines to support compensation and classifications
- Awareness of emerging trends in talent management, workforce development and management, and organizational effectiveness
- Ability to exercise sound judgment, discretion, and diplomacy in complex or sensitive situations
What We Would Like You To Have
- Master’s degree in human resources, public administration, higher education or a related field
- Higher education experience at an R1 institution, ideally public
- Demonstrated success in providing strategic oversight for public sector negotiations and fostering productive labor management partnerships
- Demonstrated experience with and understanding of academic human resources policies, including faculty employment, promotion and tenure processes and shared governance structures
- Experience with HR technology system implementation and/or stabilization (such as Workday, PeopleSoft)
- Familiarity with Oregon employment and labor laws, including Paid Leave Oregon and Oregon Equal Pay Act
- Senior HR certification (e.g., SHRM - SCP , SPHR
Primarily office-based at OSU Corvallis Campus. Work schedule may include non-standard hours and periodic travel, including regular travel to OSU locations statewide.
Pay Method Salary
Pay Period 1st through the last day of the month
Pay Date Last working day of the month
Recommended Full-Time Salary Range $280,000-$325,000
Link To Position Description
https://jobs.oregonstate.edu/hr/position_descriptions/21766
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number P09600UF
Number of Vacancies 1
Anticipated Appointment Begin Date 04/01/2026
Anticipated Appointment End Date
Posting Date 12/10/2025
Full Consideration Date
Closing Date 02/13/2026
Indicate how you intend to recruit for this search Competitive / External - open to ALL qualified applicants
Special Instructions to Applicants
Oregon State University has retained Opus Partners to support this recruitment. Confidential inquiries, applications, and nominations should be submitted by email to Thomas at thomas.lapierre@opuspartners.net .
To be considered by OSU’s search committee, candidates must provide a resume and a letter of introduction that addresses the specific responsibilities, expectations, and qualifications described above. Please consult Opus Partners for more information about the application process.
NO APPLICATIONS ARE BEING ACCEPTED THROUGH THIS ANNOUNCEMENT
For more information on OSU’s benefits, please visit https://hr.oregonstate.edu/benefits .
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability, protected veteran, and other protected status. OSU will conduct a review of the National Sex Offender Public website prior to hire.
OSU is a fair chance employer committed to inclusive hiring. We encourage applications from candidates who bring a wide range of lived experience including involvement with the justice system. This job has “critical or security-sensitive” responsibilities. If you are selected as a finalist, your initial job offer will be contingent upon the results of a job-related pre-employment check (such as a background check, motor vehicle history check, sexual misconduct reference check, etc.). Background check results do not automatically disqualify a candidate. Take a look at our Background Checks website including the for candidates section for more details. If you have questions or concerns about the pre-employment check, please contact OSU’s Employee and Labor Relations team at employee.relations@oregonstate.edu .
Salary : $280,000 - $325,000