The University of Illinois Foundation (Foundation) is the official fundraising and private gift-receiving organization of the University of Illinois (University). It works closely with alumni and friends, faculty and staff, corporations and foundations, as well as campus development professionals to create fundraising programs and opportunities that benefit the University.

Working at the University of Illinois Foundation (UIF) is more than just a job – it’s about making an impact—on the university and for yourself. From a collaborative atmosphere to work-life balance to competitive benefits, the Foundation provides it all for its mission-driven employees.

Reporting to the Foundation’s CEO, the Vice President of Human Resources (VP HR) provides strategic leadership to develop and execute the HR strategy aligned with the organization’s business objectives. This role champions organizational culture, talent management, and compliance, ensuring that UIF remains a great place to work while driving performance and engagement.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Design and implement HR strategies that support business goals and foster a high-performance culture.
• Partner with executive leadership to align people initiatives with organizational priorities.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to the CEO, COO, and leadership team on all HR matters.
• Lead talent acquisition, retention, and succession planning for critical roles.
• Champion employee engagement programs and cultural development
• Drive diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives across the organization.
• Oversee performance management systems and leadership development programs.
• Implement change management and talent management strategies to support growth, transformation, and evolution.
• Develop and implement Learning & Development strategies across the Foundation and affiliated parts of the University. UIF owns the change management and training processes for the University’s fundraising systems, which are used by hundreds of individuals at the University outside of the Foundation.
• Evaluate and manage a competitive compensation structure and benefits programs, working with counterparts at the University of Illinois on key shared initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Mentor and develop HR team members to achieve professional growth and organizational impact.
• Foster collaboration and accountability within the HR function and across the Foundation.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Business Administration, or related field (master’s preferred).
• 10+ years of progressive HR leadership experience, including at least 5 years in a senior role.
• Proven ability to influence executive leadership and drive strategic initiatives.
• Strong knowledge of employment law, compliance, and HR best practices.
• Exceptional communication, emotional intelligence, and problem-solving skills.

PREFERRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE:

• Evidence and a clear track record of leading an HR function in a complex and high-performing organization, regardless of size.
• A trusted thought partner that the rest of the leadership team also trusts. The HR function is in a good place, but the Foundation and HR will continue to evolve as the Universities launch the next fundraising campaigns.
• A clear communicator who understands the current and evolving workplace across work styles and generational changes - not just understanding where the sector is right now, but where it’s going.
• Someone who understands the governance structure, compliance requirements, serves as a thought leader, and is not afraid to give feedback.
• A data-driven and self-directed leader who collaborates with UIF’s leadership team.
• Compensation will be commensurate with experience including a competitive base salary and a generous benefits package.
• Your comprehensive benefits package includes medical, vision, and dental coverage, company paid life insurance, generous vacation time including 24 days annually, and more. Generous pension benefits are also included. We invest in your present and future wellbeing, providing the support you need to succeed.

Application Deadline: While applications and nominations will be accepted until a successful candidate has been appointed, interested individuals are encouraged to submit their materials as soon as possible for full consideration. The preferred start date is in January 2026.

Application Process: To make a nomination, provide a referral, or for additional information, please use the contact information below. While applications and nominations will be accepted until a successful candidate has been appointed, interested individuals are encouraged to submit their materials as soon as possible for full consideration. The preferred start date is in January 2026.

To apply, please submit a resume and/or vita, and cover letter, to: UiFoundationHR@buffkinbaker.com

Ken Carrick, Partner 980-296-5401

Janny DeLoache, Associate Partner 704-377-7828

THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS FOUNDATION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER