University of Oregon Taps Parker Executive Search to Find New CHRO
November 14, 2018 – Atlanta-based Parker Executive Search has been enlisted by the University of Oregon to help find a new chief human resources officer (CHRO).
Laura Wilder, the firm’s president, is leading the assignment along with vice president of higher education Porsha Williams.
Over the past month, the school’s vice president for finance and administration conducted several listening sessions with stakeholders to inform the search process.
The CHRO is charged with leading the office of human resources in its strategic partnerships with the university community as a comprehensive, innovative and results-oriented department modeled on the best human resources practices, said Parker Executive Search. The executive is expected to provide strong and effective leadership in the implementation of quality-based, integrated human resources programs for all officers of administration, faculty, staff and student employees of the university.
Desired Qualifications
The University of Oregon is seeking an individual with five to 10 years of progressive HR management experience within a complex organization serving multiple constituencies. The job calls for “proven experience as a program builder, a passion for delivering high-quality service, deep interest in building strong relationships with faculty and staff, a collaborative and flexible decision-making style, a hands-on orientation that pays attention to detail, and the ability to strategically lead organizational change,” said the search firm.
The 5 Essential Attributes of a 21st Century CHRO
The role of the chief human resources officer is changing again. Over the years, the best CHROs became much more focused on the business and its strategic needs. Today, however, the needs of the business have evolved — and with it so have the demands on the CHRO.
The incoming leader must also have a foundational understanding of issues and opportunities related to equity and inclusion as well as a demonstrated record of promoting diversity in the faculty and staff, said the recruitment firm. A track record of building a strong organizational team culture while creating an environment of customer service and support is also desired. The University of Oregon would like someone with strong technical knowledge of HR functions and technology, including those involved in recruitment and retention, employee data management, training and development, performance management, compensation and benefits.
The University of Oregon is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution committed to cultural diversity and compliance with the ADA. The school encourages all qualified individuals to apply, and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected status, including veteran and disability status.
Veteran Consultants
Parker Executive Search conducts executive searches for corporations, colleges and universities and collegiate athletics. Its sports practice represents clients looking to fill positions such as president, CEO, EVP, SVP, general manager, executive director, conference commissioner, athletic director, head coach and assistant coach, among others. The firm’s sports practice has a wide range of client schools, including Notre Dame, Dartmouth, the University of Chicago, Iowa State, Fordham and the University of Central Florida.
An Up-Close Look at the Transformational Role of the CHRO
The HR role has transitioned tremendously over the past 20 years, as the function has gained in stature and prominence. But evolution in such a role does not necessarily come about by major changes and careful planning for the future.
Ms. Wilder is responsible for the strategic leadership and day-to-day operations of Parker Executive Search. She has been with the firm for 19 years and is responsible for leading the development and delivery of successful recruiting strategies and best practices across the firm’s core practice areas. Ms. Wilder has been involved in all aspects of the search process and has conducted over 1,000 leadership searches. Her experience spans across AAU public research universities, regional and state colleges, and private liberal arts institutions. She has recruited for leadership positions across all levels of higher education and collegiate athletics. Ms. Wilder has also actively worked on middle- and senior-level searches for a variety of corporate clients in the sales, marketing, material management, logistics, human resources, general management, operations, manufacturing, construction and finance functions.
Ms. Williams leads business, client and candidate development for the firm’s higher education practice. Her career with the firm began as chief of staff to the president and quickly advanced through the ranks to her current leadership role. She is responsible for client management, candidate development and recruitment, and successful search execution. Ms. Williams has significant experience recruiting world class leaders among colleges and universities across the country. She has completed over 200 searches. In addition, Ms. Williams has conducted substantial work for Fortune 500 companies in the financial services industry.
Contributed by Scott A. Scanlon, Editor-in-Chief; Dale M. Zupsansky, Managing Editor; Stephen Sawicki, Managing Editor; and Andrew W. Mitchell, Managing Editor – Hunt Scanlon Media
