University of Central Missouri

Associate Vice President of Human Resources

Academic Career & Executive Search is pleased to assist University of Central Missouri in its search for Associate Vice President of Human Resources. 

For full consideration, please apply by March 25, 2026.

The University of Central Missouri (UCM) seeks an Associate Vice President of Human Resources (AVP HR) to serve in a senior, strategic leadership role at a pivotal moment for the institution. Reporting to the CFO and serving as a member of the President’s Strategic Leadership Team, the AVP HR will play a vital role in advancing a people-centered, high-performing workforce that supports UCM’s mission, operational excellence, and long-term institutional goals.

This leadership appointment comes as UCM continues to strengthen institutional capacity, enhance employee engagement, and align human resources strategy with university-wide priorities. The AVP HR will lead a talented and motivated human resources division and oversee day-to-day operations while serving as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on matters of talent strategy, compliance, organizational effectiveness, and workforce development. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced HR executive to step into a highly collaborative, forward-moving environment and make an immediate and lasting impact.

The AVP HR will join a university community defined by momentum, mission and a deep commitment to supporting its people. This comprehensive Midwestern university serves more than 13,000 students across two campuses, in Warrensburg, a welcoming college community about 50 miles southeast of Kansas City, and Lee’s Summit, located within the Kansas City metro area, as well as through online and hybrid programs. The university has recently been recognized among the Top 20 Public Universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report (2026) and is celebrating strong enrollment trends, expanding partnerships such as the MACC+UCM Direct-Connect initiative, and the success of a recent HLC reaccreditation visit. UCM’s engaged faculty and staff proudly support a student population that includes a high percentage of first-generation students, high post-graduation placement rates, and strong student satisfaction outcomes.

UCM offers an exceptional benefits package, including participation in the Missouri State Employees' Retirement System (MOSERS) defined-benefit pension plan for eligible employees. Vesting occurs after five years of service, providing lifetime retirement benefits. Additional benefits include: 

• Complimentary tuition at UCM for employees  
• Tuition and mandatory fees covered for eligible spouses and dependents 
• Comprehensive health, wellness, and professional development benefits 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Responsible for the formulation, interpretation, and administration of university personnel policies and practices, including, but not limited to, wage and salary policies, leave policies, employee discipline policies, complaints and grievances, and separation policies.
• Periodically review and make recommendations for revisions to employee policies.
• Develop and monitor appropriate recruiting and hiring strategies.
• Establish and monitor the application and e?ectiveness of management development and employee training programs.
• Ensure compliance with Federal and State laws and regulations governing human resources issues.
• Administer the University’s employee insurance, retirement, and other bene?ts programs.
• Provide direction and oversight in the development and implementation of employee relations strategies and programs designed to minimize and mediate workplace disputes and foster a positive and productive work environment.
• Develop and manage the annual human resources budget.
• Develop HR plans and strategies to support the achievement of the overall university operations and the strategic plan.
• Promote a university culture that supports UCM’s mission, vision, and values.
• Responsible for the optimum utilization of human resources sta?. This involves responsibility for employment, training, assignment of duties, providing proper equipment and working conditions, recommending salary adjustments, and maintaining morale.
• The Associate Vice President of Human Resources is accountable for the work described within this job description. However, the intent of the job description is to be representative of the duties and responsibilities that will be required of this position; it is not intended to be exhaustive. The individual ?lling the position may be required to perform other duties incidental to the work described above or as otherwise directed by the University.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s degree in Human Resources, Industrial/Organizational Psychology, Business Administration, Public Administration, or related ?eld
• 10 years of progressively responsible experience in human resources management with at least 5 years in a high level managerial and/or executive leadership role

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Doctorate in Human Resources, Business Administration, Higher Education Administration, Public Administration, or related ?eld
• Higher education experience
• Professional certi?cation (PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, or SHRM-SCP)
• Experience with Ellucian Banner ERP system

About the Institution

Founded in 1871, the University of Central Missouri (UCM) is a comprehensive, public university committed to academic excellence, affordability, and student success. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, UCM offers more than 150 academic programs and maintains a strong reputation for high-quality, accessible education. The university continues to climb in national rankings, recently named among the Top 20 Public Universities in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report (2026). With two thriving campuses in Warrensburg and Lee’s Summit, UCM serves a diverse student body and fosters a culture of engagement, innovation, and service that prepares graduates to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

Living in the Area

Located in Warrensburg, Missouri, just an hour southeast of Kansas City, the University of Central Missouri offers an appealing balance of small-town charm and metropolitan accessibility, making it an easy and comfortable place to settle quickly. Warrensburg’s close-knit community, affordable cost of living, and convenient amenities make short-term relocation seamless. Its walkable downtown features local restaurants, coffee shops, and arts venues that give the town a warm, authentic Midwestern feel.

From the Lee’s Summit campus, downtown Kansas City is only 20 minutes away, offering easy access to professional sports, arts, entertainment, airports, and corporate hubs. The greater Kansas City region provides the cultural energy and amenities of a major metropolitan area, with world-class dining, shopping, and recreation. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby Knob Noster State Park, while those interested in Missouri’s history and wine country will find scenic day trips to charming small towns and vineyards. Together, Warrensburg and the surrounding region offer a high quality of life and a convenient, connected home base.

To Apply 

For full consideration, please apply by March 25, 2026.

To be viewed by the search firm, you must apply directly at: https://acesrch.applicantstack.com/x/detail/a21esjylzpou

Please apply through the application link and do not email applications.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received and should include a cover letter and curriculum vita. Ideally cover letters should not exceed two pages. All applications are treated confidentially.

Inquiries, referrals, and nominations are also treated confidentially.

Inquiries and questions: Please send to UCMAVPHR@acesrch.com.

Nominations and referrals: Please send the nominee’s name, title, and contact information if available to nominations@acesrch.com.

Institutional Information

The University of Central Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.