Senior Employee Relations Consultant & Compliance Analyst

VCU Human Resources has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Employee Relations Consultant & Compliance Analyst! Department

Human Resources

The Senior Employee Relations Consultant & Compliance Analyst serves as a trusted advisor and subject matter expert in employee relations, partnering closely with HR Business Partners to promote a fair, consistent, and compliant workplace. This role is responsible for guiding and mentoring HR Business Partners through complex employee relations matters, providing expert counsel on policy interpretation, investigations, and resolution strategies. The Senior Consultant plays a key role in ensuring that employee issues are handled with integrity, sound judgment, and in alignment with VCU's organizational values and legal standards.

The Senior Employee Relations Consultant & Compliance Analyst serves as a trusted advisor and subject matter expert in employee relations, partnering closely with HR Business Partners to promote a fair, consistent, and compliant workplace. This role is responsible for guiding and mentoring HR Business Partners through complex employee relations matters, providing expert counsel on policy interpretation, investigations, and resolution strategies. The Senior Consultant plays a key role in ensuring that employee issues are handled with integrity, sound judgment, and in alignment with VCU's organizational values and legal standards.

As a senior compliance professional, this position serves as a critical strategic partner in the compliance and policy functions. In this capacity, the incumbent will be responsible for safeguarding the university's integrity and HR compliance programs, moving beyond traditional HR administration to include a specialized focus on risk mitigation and data governance.

Through strategic partnership, data-informed insights, and a commitment to continuous improvement, the Senior Employee Relations Consultant & Compliance Analyst will help strengthen VCU's employee relations framework, enhance workplace culture, and support the university's mission of fostering a culture of care and appreciation.

Lead and advise on high-risk and sensitive employee relations cases, including investigations into misconduct and policy violations. Provide strategic counsel to HR Business Partners and managers on performance management, disciplinary actions, and conflict resolution. Ensure thorough documentation and compliance with legal and organizational standards during investigations and case management.

Interpret and apply federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations advising HR Business Partners during strategic consultations. Advise HR Leadership on necessary policy updates during triennial policy review by conducting peer institutional research and seeking the input of key university stakeholders to reduce organizational risk. Conduct audits and assessments to identify compliance gaps and recommend corrective actions. Provide leadership and mentorship to compliance team members.

Act as a trusted advisor to senior HR and university leadership on compliance strategies and employee relations trends. Partner with HR Business Partners to manage complex employee relations cases and investigations. Provide guidance during compliance inquiries and support University Counsel during litigation.

Deliver annual and ongoing training to HR Business Partners on progressive discipline, performance management, investigations, and compliance. Coach managers and HR professionals on best practices for handling employee relations issues.

Analyze employee relations data to identify trends and develop proactive strategies.

Prepare executive-level reports on compliance risks, investigation outcomes, and policy effectiveness.

• Bachelor's degree in business or related area and/or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Significant progressive human resources experience, including experience in employee relations and compliance consulting or…