Vice President, Human Resources

Description

The University of Illinois Foundation (UIF) is the official fundraising and private gift‑receiving organization of the University of Illinois. It works closely with alumni, faculty, staff, corporations and foundations to create fundraising programs and opportunities that benefit the University.

Working at the University of Illinois Foundation is more than just a job – it’s about making an impact on the university and for yourself. From a collaborative atmosphere to work‑life balance to competitive benefits, UIF provides it all for its mission‑driven employees.

Reporting to the Foundation’s CEO, the Vice President of Human Resources (VP HR) provides strategic leadership to develop and execute the HR strategy aligned with the organization’s business objectives. This role champions organizational culture, talent management, and compliance, ensuring that UIF remains a great place to work while driving performance and engagement.

• Design and implement HR strategies that support business goals and foster a high‑performance culture.
• Partner with executive leadership to align people initiatives with organizational priorities.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to the CEO, COO, and leadership team on all HR matters.
• Lead talent acquisition, retention, and succession planning for critical roles.
• Champion employee engagement programs and cultural development.
• Drive diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives across the organization.
• Oversee performance management systems and leadership development programs.
• Implement change management and talent management strategies to support growth, transformation, and evolution.
• Develop and implement Learning & Development strategies across the Foundation and affiliated parts of the University. UIF owns the change management and training processes for the University’s fundraising systems, which are used by hundreds of individuals at the University outside of the Foundation.
• Evaluate and manage a competitive compensation structure and benefits programs, working with counterparts at the University of Illinois on key shared initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Mentor and develop HR team members to achieve professional growth and organizational impact.
• Foster collaboration and accountability within the HR function and across the Foundation.

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Business Administration, or related field (master’s preferred).
• 10+ years of progressive HR leadership experience, including at least 5 years in a senior role.
• Proven ability to influence executive leadership and drive strategic initiatives.
• Strong knowledge of employment law, compliance, and HR best practices.
• Exceptional communication, emotional intelligence, and problem‑solving skills.

• Evidence and a clear track record of leading an HR function in a complex and high‑performing organization, regardless of size.
• A trusted thought partner that the rest of the leadership team also trusts.
• A clear communicator who understands the current and evolving workplace across work styles and generational changes – not just understanding where the sector is right now, but where it’s going.
• Someone who understands the governance structure, compliance requirements, serves as a thought leader, and is not afraid to give feedback.
• A data‑driven and self‑directed leader who collaborates with UIF’s leadership team.
• Compensation will be commensurate with experience, including a competitive base salary and a generous benefits package. The position has a median salary range of $195,000.

University of Illinois Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To apply, please submit a resume and/or vita, and cover letter, to:
Ui

Ken Carrick, Partner

Janny DeLoache, Associate Partner

Applications are accepted until a successful candidate has been appointed. The preferred start date is in January 2026.