Please note: This is a hybrid position based in Rochester, NY. Candidates must be located in or willing to relocate to the Rochester area.
About the Role
The University of Rochester is seeking a Director, HR Systems Optimization to lead the strategy, governance, and continuous improvement of the University's HR technology portfolio.
As a member of the Human Resources leadership team, you'll partner across HR, University IT, and executive leadership to shape the future of our HR technology ecosystem. This role is ideal for a leader who enjoys connecting people, processes, and technology to improve the employee experience while driving operational excellence. This is more than an HRIS leadership role—it's an opportunity to influence enterprise HR strategy through technology, data, and cross-functional collaboration.
What You'll Do
- Develop and execute the strategic roadmap for Workday, UKG, Cornerstone, and other HR technology platforms.
- Lead enterprise HR technology projects, system enhancements, and optimization initiatives from prioritization through implementation.
- Partner with HR, University IT, and business leaders to identify opportunities for automation, process improvement, and innovation.
- Drive change management, communication, and adoption strategies to ensure successful implementation of new technology and enhancements.
- Lead and develop a team of HR data and analytics professionals while advancing reporting and analytics capabilities.
- Deliver executive-level dashboards, reporting, and insights that support strategic workforce planning and organizational decision-making.
- Establish governance and prioritization processes that align HR technology investments with institutional goals.
What We're Looking For
We're looking for a collaborative leader who is equally comfortable discussing HR strategy with senior leaders and partnering with technical teams to bring that strategy to life.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Information Systems, Computer Science, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
- 8+ years of experience leading HR systems, HR technology, or HRIS projects
- 5+ years of people leadership experience
- Demonstrated experience leading Workday optimization initiatives, including involvement with Workday HCM implementations and/or ongoing enhancement of Workday modules such as HCM, Recruiting, Compensation, Benefits, Payroll, or Learning
- Experience leading cross-functional projects involving HR, IT, and business stakeholders
- Strong project management, change management, and stakeholder engagement skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with UKG Time & Attendance
- Experience with Cornerstone Learning or Talent Management
- Project Management Professional (PMP) certification
Why Join the University of Rochester?
- You'll have the opportunity to shape the future of HR technology at one of the nation's leading research universities and academic medical centers, partnering with leaders across the institution to deliver solutions that improve the employee experience and support the University's mission of Meliora — Ever Better.
