Human Resources Business Partner (Employee Relations / EO)

Christopher Newport University; Newport; On-site; GBP 80,000 - GBP 100,000; Full time

Job description

Human Resources Business Partner (Employee Relations / EO)

Position Number: GA309

Appointment Type: Full Time, Exempt

Campus Security Authority: Yes

Restricted Position: Yes

Posting Number: AP448P

Number of Vacancies: 1

Posting Date: 02/11/2026

Review Begin Date: 03/01/2026

Application Instructions

Interested parties are requested to submit a cover letter, current resume, and the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of at least three professional references at the time of application.

All application materials must be submitted online or mailed to the address shown below. For any questions, contact the CNU Human Resources Office at [phone].

Required documents: Cover Letter, Resume

Optional documents: Other Application Materials, Other Application Materials #2, Other Application Materials #3, Other Application Materials #4

This position will be posted until filled; however, review of applications will begin on March 1, 2026.

Search finalists are required to complete a CNU sponsored background check.

Christopher Newport University (CNU) will make a reasonable effort to accommodate persons with disabilities in the application and/or interview process.

Christopher Newport University, an EO Employer, is fully committed to access and opportunity.

Position Overview

Provides support for the University’s Employee Relations functions, supports the planning and execution of performance management processes, and assists with change-management efforts related to new systems and processes within the Office of Human Resources. The role also reviews recruitment and selection practices to ensure compliance in faculty and staff searches.

Responsibilities

• Provide advice, assistance, and counsel to employees and managers in resolving work‑related problems, concerns, and grievances.
• Serve as the employee–relations liaison with departments, promoting effective strategies through training programs, workshops, and individual meetings.
• Analyze problem situations and work creatively with employees and managers to find alternative dispute‑resolution methods, including mediation as needed.
• Conduct investigations and interviews to ascertain facts surrounding alleged issues, in collaboration with the Manager of Human Resource Operations.
• Assist in preparing and maintaining employee‑relations files including letters, department communications, and investigation notes.
• Track investigation progress through completion.
• Consult with the Director of Institutional Compliance/Title IX Coordinator on related issues, policies, and needs.
• Provide guidance on complex HR policies related to EO compliance and employee relations.
• Consult with managers to strengthen training and development in resolving workplace concerns.
• Work with the Executive Director of Human Resources and Manager of Human Resource Operations on DHRM and employee‑dispute‑resolution policies, performance planning, and reporting.
• Consult with faculty, staff, and supervisors on EDR and DHRM policies and procedures.
• Support the Commonwealth’s grievance process and ensure compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Conduct employee exit surveys, track trends, and report findings.
• Track employee‑relations issues to review ongoing trends and identify training opportunities.
• Monitor grievance activity to comply with DHRM data collection and reporting requirements.
• Provide monthly data on employee relations and turnover.

Equal Opportunity Search Compliance

• Review recruitment and selection practices to ensure compliance in faculty and staff searches.
• Review job postings, recruitment strategies, and selection procedures to ensure adherence to equal‑opportunity and affirmative‑action policies.
• Monitor and assess hiring practices to identify and address potential biases or disparities.
• Conduct reviews of recruitment and hiring processes to ensure adherence to legal and institutional requirements.
• Offer guidance and support to departments and search committees on best practices.

Strategic Planning & Organizational Alignment

• Serve as project manager for projects within the Human Resources Department as needed.
• Lead change‑management efforts related to new systems and processes within the Human Resources Department.

Other Responsibilities

• Assist with VEC documentation and hearings.
• Follow workplace safety regulations and report unsafe conditions.
• Report work‑related incidents to supervisor and participate in accident investigations.
• Promote a safe and healthy work environment, ensuring the implementation of safety regulations.
• Report incidents within 24 hours per university, state, and federal procedures.
• Act as a responsible employee for reporting sexual violence incidents.
• Maintain positive professional customer service and relations within the office/department and with all constituencies.
• Demonstrate a positive and professional attitude, treating everyone with dignity and respect.
• Fully support the “Student’s First” value at CNU, routinely going the extra mile in providing service.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities (KSA’s)

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills.
• Working knowledge of employee relations, training, and development practices.
• Ability to organize and implement projects or program plans; develop and advise on policy; investigate and analyze complex questions and issues.
• Strong analytical and decision‑making skills.
• Excellent communication and facilitation abilities.
• High level of discretion and professionalism.
• Ability to navigate complex workforce issues with fairness and consistency.
• Strategic thinking with attention to operational detail.
• Demonstrated ability to handle confidential information with absolute discretion.
• Ability to quickly react and adapt to changing priorities.
• Ability to apply leadership practices and principles to difficult employee‑relations situations.
• Ability to develop positive relations between employees and management.

Required Education

Master’s Degree or Bachelor’s degree with work experience that equates to an advanced degree.

Additional Consideration – Education

SHRM – SCP or SPHR

Experience Required

• Demonstrated experience in human resources, employee relations, grievances, or equal employment opportunity (EEO).
• Experience developing, interpreting, and applying human resource policies.
• Experience using spreadsheet software with functions.
• Experience analyzing data and communicating outcomes.

Additional Consideration – Experience

• Experience working at a college/university in a Human Resources Department.
• Experience working with Cardinal timekeeping and payroll system.
• Experience working with applicant tracking systems.
• Title IX experience.
• Experience working with the Department of Human Resources Management (DHRM).

Salary Information

Starting at $70,000, commensurate with education and experience.

CNU Information

Christopher Newport University is anchored in excellence and is the #1 regional public university in Virginia and #3 among regional public universities in the South. We are an inclusive and kind community founded on our shared values of honor, scholarship, service, and leadership. We offer an outstanding liberal arts education provided by dedicated, gifted teacher‑scholars who are supported by a compassionate team of faculty and staff. Our 4,500 undergraduate and graduate students pursue more than 90 areas of study and live on a largely residential campus. CNU’s on‑campus performing and visual arts centers offer Broadway shows, world‑class performances, engaging exhibitions, transformative lectures, and more. Our athletics program is the winningest at any level in Virginia.

Christopher Newport University is located in the heart of Newport News, a vibrant city with breathtaking scenery and unique experiences. The city and region offer affordable neighborhoods, local and brand‑name shops, diverse dining options, parks and water access, and recreational opportunities. Whatever your interests and goals, you belong at CNU! For more details and information, visit cnu.edu.

Telework Eligibility

>This position is eligible for periodic telework as determined by the department. Eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to supervisor approval. Employees will be required to sign a Telework Agreement.

Contact Information

1 Avenue of the Arts
Newport News, VA 23606
P: [phone]
F: [phone]
[e-mail]