Description
Director of Human Resources
Greenwood Asher & Associates invites applications and nominations for the position of Director of Human Resources at Murray State University. The University seeks a dynamic person to lead and shape a comprehensive HR operation serving nearly 10,000 students and a vibrant campus community. Reporting to the Vice President for Finance and Administrative Services, the Director will play an integral role in advancing the University's commitment to employee experience, academic excellence, and organizational innovation.
The Director of Human Resources will play a key leadership role in advancing the University’s strategic priorities and strengthening all aspects of human resources across the university. This is an opportunity to shape institutional direction, build strong partnerships, and drive meaningful impact across a dynamic and complex organization.
About the Institution
Founded in 1922, Murray State is a nationally ranked, four-year public university in western Kentucky known for academic excellence, affordability, and a welcoming campus culture. With a record $136 million awarded in scholarships and financial aid last year, Murray State is recognized as a top small college town and a leader in student success and regional impact.
Key Responsibilities
The Director of Human Resources will:
- Provide strategic and operational leadership for all facets of human resources, with a focus on benefits, employee relations, and compensation
- Ensure university-wide compliance with state and federal regulations, including HIPAA
- Oversee benefits administration for faculty and staff (health, retirement, insurance), managing a self-funded health care plan budget (~$16M)
- Maintain compensation programs, position descriptions, and support employee development/training
- Partner with senior leadership to drive innovation, foster organizational change, and strengthen workforce effectiveness
Qualifications and Experience
The successful candidate will bring a record of progressive leadership and a strong commitment to providing an excellent human resources experience for all university employees:
- Bachelor’s degree in human resources or a related field (required); national HR certification preferred
- Minimum of ten years of progressively responsible human resources experience, including five years in senior leadership within higher education
- Demonstrated ability to build trust, foster innovation, and advance strategic priorities
- Expertise in benefits administration, compliance, and HR information systems
Preferred qualifications may include experience:
- National professional Human Resources certification
- Experience with employer-sponsored benefits, such as retirement, health insurance, and related contracts
Application and Nomination Process
Greenwood Asher & Associates is assisting Murray State University in this search. Initial screening of applications will begin immediately and continue until an appointment is made. For best consideration, application materials should be submitted by July 13, 2026.
Applications should include:
- A letter of interest addressing relevant experience and leadership approach
- A current CV or résumé
Materials should be submitted via: Application Link
Nominations and inquiries may be directed to:
- Jeremy Duff, Vice President for Executive Search – jeremyduff@greenwoodsearch.com
- Shelley Feather, Senior Executive Search Consultant – shelleyfeather@greenwoodsearch.com
Murray State University endorses the intent of all federal and state laws created to prohibit discrimination. Murray State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, veteran status, disability, or political or social viewpoint in employment or application for employment, admissions or the provision of student and employee services and provides, upon request, reasonable accommodation including auxiliary aids and services necessary to afford individuals with disabilities equal access to participate in all programs and activities.
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