Description:
Reporting directly to the Vice Chancellor for Business and Finance and CFO , and serving as a member of the Chancellor's cabinet, the CHRO joins a dynamic team at a time of a system-wide HR transformation across the UNC system. The successful candidate will be both a strategic, transformational leader and a hands-on partner, who is comfortable advising at the cabinet level while also ensuring core HR services such as payroll, benefits, talent management, and employee relations are delivered effectively. In this critical role, the CHRO will be expected to balance vision with execution, using technology and innovation to strengthen operations, position HR as a trusted partner across the institution, and represent the university with the UNC System Office, the North Carolina Office of State Human Resources ( OSHR ), and peer institutions. As a critical campus-facing leader, this position is required to live within a reasonable commuting distance from campus and will work primarily on site, with professional flexibility subject to leadership discretion. Learn more about the division of Human Resources here. (https://www.ncat.edu/about/hr/index.php)
Primary Function of Organizational Unit:
This is a career-defining opportunity for an HR leader to join North Carolina A&T State University (N.C. A&T), renowned as the nation's largest HBCU , a distinction it has held for 12 consecutive years. With year-over-year enrollment growth since 2013, the University once again achieved record enrollment with over 14,000 students starting the Fall 2025 semester. This remarkable trajectory underscores N.C. A&T's strength, momentum, and national leadership, making it an exceptional environment for an HR executive to shape the future of a thriving, expanding institution.
Adding to the record enrollment is a bold capital agenda, strategic partnerships, new programs, and strong hiring initiatives for over 1,800 full-time faculty and staff. Capital projects include new residential facilities, a $90M engineering expansion, a $32M health services and professional office complex, an urban and community food complex, among others. N.C. A&T is rapidly transforming its campus environment and academic experience under Chancellor Martin's (https://ncat.edu/installation/meet-chancellor-martin.php) leadership in its ascent to an R1 designation. The CHRO will be a visionary leader who can modernize and elevate the HR function, act as a change agent, and champion the unique mission and culture of this HBCU to advance both organizational priorities and promote long-term sustainability.
The Department of Human Resources serves the University community through innovation and action in the development and management of the University's human resources. The staff works to support the mission of the University with an overarching commitment to outstanding customer service and accountability. The Division of Human Resources ensures alignment between the institution's strategic plan and human resource practices, through the strategic planning, implementation, and evaluation of university HR programs, including recruitment, compensation/position management, employee relations and affirmative action, benefits, workers' compensation, professional development and training, performance management, HR information systems, staff communications, new employee orientation, and recognition programs. Personnel matters are governed by state statutes, UNC Policy Manual, and The Code of the University of North Carolina, and most processes and actions are prescribed by these governing documents. Human Resources plays a critical role in ensuring the University is accountable and compliant in terms of Federal, State, and UNC System human resources practices
Requirements:
Master's degree in Business, Human Resources, Higher Education Administration, Public Administration, or a related field.
At least 10 years of progressive HR leadership experience in large, complex organizations, with demonstrated success leading workforce strategy and organizational change.
Fluency with HR technology platforms and data-driven workforce reporting.
Preferred:
Professional certifications (e.g., SHRM - SCP , SPHR ).
Experience engaging with governing boards, system offices, or other external oversight bodies.
Experience managing employee groups under multiple personnel systems or regulatory frameworks in higher education, state government, or similarly complex public- or private-sector environments.
Proven ability to collaborate with academic leadership and an understanding of shared governance.
Experience leading cross-functional teams and prior experience as a chief human resources officer, or as a principal deputy/associate responsible for leading major HR functions in a large, complex organization.
Background in or exposure to Lean Six Sigma methodology or other process improvement methodologies.
Special Instructions:
Academic Career & Executive Search ( ACES ) is assisting us with this position.
To Apply
For full consideration, please apply by October 13, 2025.
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 NCATAVCCHRO@acesrch.com
Nominations and referrals: Please send the nominee's name, title, and contact information if available to nominations@acesrch.com.
You must complete and submit an electronic application for employment to be considered. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completing an electronic application. Applicants seeking Veteran's Preference must attach a DD 214 form. Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty with your application during the process of applying to the job posting. Final candidates are subject to criminal and sex offender background checks. North Carolina A&T State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States. North Carolina A&T State University is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. No one who applies or seeks employment will be denied admission to or employment at North Carolina A&T State University on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, disabling condition, veteran status, political affiliation, genetic information or sexual orientation and sexual identity.
Employee Benefits available to NC A & T permanent employees include the following and more;
Accrued Vacation and Sick Leave for Eligible Employees
Community Service Leave
Aetna - State Health Benefits of North Carolina
NCFlex - Vision, Dental, Flexible Spending Account, Life Insurance and more
12 Paid Holidays
Teachers and State Employees Retirement System ( TSERS )
Optional Supplemental Plans - 401k, 403b, 457b and 457
Employee Assistance Program ( EAP )
Campus Recreation Center Discount
University Bookstore Discount
and more
This position may be eligible for a remote or hybrid work arrangement, consistent with university and state policies. N.C. A&T employees are generally required to reside in North Carolina, within a 2-hour commuting distance of their assigned duty station.
