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:
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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