Senior Associate Athletic Director of Human Resources

$160,000 - $180,000/Yr

University of Southern California - Los Angeles, CA

Full-time - Senior

Los Angeles, CA

Educational Services

About the position

The University of Southern California (USC) is seeking a dynamic and experienced leader to fill the role of Senior Associate Athletic Director for Human Resources. This pivotal position will drive strategic HR initiatives, leadership development, and comprehensive human capital management across USC Athletics. Reporting directly to the Executive Director of Client Services, the Senior Associate AD for HR will align HR strategies with USC's mission, fostering a high-performing, diverse, and engaged workforce. The role emphasizes employee relations, requiring extensive experience in managing complex issues and maintaining a positive, inclusive work environment.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the lead advisor on all employee relations matters, ensuring effective management of employee concerns, conflict resolution, and performance-related issues.
• Oversee HR teams, providing strategic direction and ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
• Identify learning and career mobility opportunities, develop succession plans, and create programs that foster employee growth and retention.
• Lead HR initiatives that support continuous improvement in organizational performance and adaptability.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders to understand and address business needs across Athletics.
• Integrate USC's core values, including DEI, into all HR programs and promote an inclusive work environment.
• Oversee the implementation of HR systems and processes that ensure effective HR service delivery.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to HR teams, fostering a high-performance culture.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, human resources, organizational development, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in human capital management, with a strong emphasis on employee relations, talent management, and change management.
• 4+ years of management experience with expertise in HR strategy and implementation across various domains.
• Previous HR leadership experience working in intercollegiate athletics and/or sports administration.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust and navigate complex organizational structures.
• Deep knowledge of labor and employment laws, with experience advising on workforce planning, talent assessments, and performance management.

Nice-to-haves

• Master's degree in business administration, human resources, or a related field.
• 12+ years of HR experience, with 6+ years in leadership roles, ideally within higher education or a sports organization.
• Demonstrated success in transforming HR services from tactical to strategic and driving industry-leading HR practices, including DEI initiatives.
• Proven ability to lead organizational change while maintaining an ethical, equitable, and inclusive environment.
• Experience in a unionized environment.
• Familiarity with NCAA and Big Ten Conference regulations.
• Relevant HR certifications such as CIPD, CPLP, SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP, or PHR/SPHR.

Benefits

• Salary range of $160,000 - $180,000 based on experience and qualifications.
• Commitment to diversity and equal opportunity in employment.