Position Information

The California State University, Office of the Chancellor, is seeking an Executive Director, HR Operations to oversee the development, implementation and management of the new Multi University Collaboration (Multi U) specializing in HR operations. Designed as a dispersed shared service model, a team within the Multi U Collaboration will perform HR operations functions on behalf of all 23 CSU campuses and the Chancellor’s Office. Team members will work from campus locations while reporting to this position. HR Operations team members can work at any campus location or at the Chancellor’s Office. The Executive Director will be based in Long Beach at the Chancellor’s Office.

This position will be initially responsible for benefits administration functions across the system with additional shared service HR operations functions to be added to the Multi U Collaboration in the future.

Key Responsibilities Launch and Lead Multi U HR Operations: Drive the strategic direction and operational rollout of CSU’s new shared services HR model, starting with benefits administration.

Oversee Benefits Administration: Ensure accurate, compliant, and efficient enrollment, onboarding/offboarding, and employee support functions.

Project Leadership: Manage systemwide implementation, timelines, risk mitigation, and change management for HR operations transitions.

Team Leadership: Hire, coach, and lead a dispersed, high-performing team; foster a culture of continuous improvement, service, and accountability.

Stakeholder Engagement: Serve as a key liaison to campus leaders, HR teams, and executive stakeholders to ensure alignment and progress.

Drive Operational Excellence: Monitor performance, implement best practices, and improve service delivery across all assigned HR functions. Qualifications

This position requires: Bachelor’s degree in a related field; Master’s degree preferred, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

At least 10 years of senior-level HR operations experience, including 5 years of supervisory experience and managing large teams.

Proven success leading complex, multi-site or systemwide HR projects in large, distributed organizations.

Expertise in HR operations such as benefits, payroll, compliance, and employee lifecycle processes.

Strong project management, strategic planning, and change management capabilities.

Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and leadership skills.

Experience working in unionized environments and/or higher education or public sector settings is highly desirable.

Proficiency with enterprise systems and data-driven decision-making.