How to Apply

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. This cover letter should address your specific interest in this role and outline your skills and experience that directly relate to the position.

Job Summary

The Office of the President seeks a professional with experience in project management and human resources to support the work of the Deputy Chief of Staff and Senior Human Resources Advisor (DCoS). The DCoS is responsible for providing advice and senior-level staff support to the Office of the President and partnering with key leaders across the university on strategic projects, initiatives, and a wide range of related matters. The DCoS is also responsible for all aspects of the employment life cycle for presidential direct reports and the President's office, including executive searches, recruitment, appointment and onboarding, the reappointment review process, employee relations, succession planning, performance evaluation, executive compensation, and other HR-related processes including conflict of interest/conflict of commitment.

Reporting to the DCoS, the Project Manager will support the newly established HR function for the office and provide comprehensive project management assistance for the DCoS. The Project Manager will oversee the full scope of complex projects involving partners from multiple units across the university. Key skills for this role include professionalism, the ability to identify emerging issues, diplomacy, and discretion while handling responsibilities in a complex, ever-evolving environment.

The position will be primarily on-site in Ann Arbor with the opportunity for a hybrid schedule in accordance with operational needs. Some work on evenings and weekends may occasionally be required to accommodate the office schedule and events.

The salary range for this position is $75,000 - $85,000. A higher salary may be considered for an exceptionally qualified candidate.

Why Work at Michigan?

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, the University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family, and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

Generous time off
A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting
Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
Life insurance
Long-term disability coverage
Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses

Responsibilities*

Project Management and Executive/High-Level Search Support (60%)

In collaboration with the DCoS, manage the full cycle of executive and high-level searches, ensuring timeline adherence, preparing for committee meetings, and coordinating communications. Develop comprehensive timelines and itineraries involving internal and external stakeholders and track search-related expenses.
Assemble project teams and committees, often assigning individual responsibilities, identifying appropriate resources, and developing project schedules to ensure deliverables are achieved on time and within budget. Navigate complex environments and oversee multi-departmental university projects.
Support projects for the Office of the President, including staff committees and initiatives involving the DCoS.
Collaborate on departmental teams to enhance and streamline processes.
Utilize survey tools for data collection and analysis to inform decision-making. Prepare or support the preparation of reports on workforce trends and HR activities, collaborating with SSC, EBS, and other units. Contribute to projects and initiatives to enhance HR and other practices.

Employment Life Cycle Management (20%)

In collaboration with the DCoS, support the oversight of HR processes for staff, executive officers, and presidential direct reports, including recruitment, appointments, onboarding, reappointments, employee relations, succession planning, performance evaluations, and executive compensation.

HR Policy Development and Implementation (10%)

Contribute to developing and implementing new HR policies, programs, and tools.
Develop or assist in creating resources, job aids, and educational materials.

Employee Relations and Transaction Management (10%)

Provide consultation for employee relations issues, collaborating with campus partners.
Serve as a contact for appointment changes and process HR transactions using the Personnel Action Request (PAR) system, ensuring accuracy. Monitor contract terms for budgeting and forecasting.

Required Qualifications*

Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Excellent project management skills and a demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with organizational goals.
Three (3) years of executive search project management experience, talent management in higher education or a related field, or three (3) years of experience in project management with a focus on HR or recruitment.
Deep understanding of executive search processes, including candidate sourcing, screening, interviewing, selection and onboarding.
Experience interpreting and implementing HR and/or organizational policies and procedures.
Experience using HR management systems of record and data query tools.
Knowledge and practical application of project management best practices.
Attention to detail, including proofreading and editing.
Ability to identify trends and recommend solutions.
Ability to work independently, collaborate in a team environment, and handle sensitive and protected information with confidentiality.
Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion principles.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage and influence senior leadership, faculty, and other stakeholders.
Willingness to take on exciting and emerging opportunities with enthusiasm.

Desired Qualifications*

PMP or similar certification
SHRM or similar HR certification
Working knowledge of U-M organizational policies, rules and regulations

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.