Human resources (HR) leadership is a cornerstone of operational success within the University of Wisconsin System. The Vice President for Human Resources plays a critical role in shaping workforce strategies, fostering an inclusive campus culture, and ensuring compliance with employment laws and university policies. This article explores the role of the Vice President for Human Resources at the University of Wisconsin System, explains the position of Executive Vice President for Human Resources, provides contact details for HR services at UW Platteville, and profiles the Vice Chancellor for Research within the University of Wisconsin.
Who is the Vice President of Human Resources at the University of Wisconsin System?
The Vice President for Human Resources serves as the chief HR officer for the University of Wisconsin System, overseeing all human capital management functions across its campuses. This executive is responsible for developing policies, leading talent acquisition and retention, managing benefits, promoting employee development, and fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
Current Vice President for Human Resources
Jared Smith currently holds the position of Vice President for Human Resources at the University of Wisconsin System. Smith is recognized for his expertise in strategic human capital management, employee relations, and organizational development tailored to the complex environment of higher education.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Designing and implementing HR policies that align with the university’s mission and values.
- Overseeing recruitment, onboarding, and retention strategies.
- Managing employee benefits, compensation, and labor relations.
- Leading diversity and inclusion programs to create an equitable work environment.
- Ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional employment laws.
- Providing leadership in employee training, leadership development, and performance management.
What is an Executive Vice President for Human Resources?
The title Executive Vice President for Human Resources (EVP HR) often refers to a senior leadership role responsible for the overall strategic direction and management of an organization’s human resources function. In the context of large organizations like university systems, the EVP HR ensures that HR initiatives support broader institutional goals and operational priorities.
Key Features of an EVP HR Role:
- Strategic Leadership: Setting long-term HR strategies that foster talent growth and organizational excellence.
- Cross-Functional Coordination: Collaborating with other executive leaders to integrate HR practices with operational and academic functions.
- Policy Development: Leading creation and enforcement of employment policies and practices.
- Crisis Management: Handling complex employee relations issues, union negotiations, and compliance challenges.
- Organizational Culture: Promoting values such as inclusion, engagement, and accountability.
While the University of Wisconsin System uses the title Vice President for Human Resources, the EVP HR role is analogous in scope and importance within comparable institutions.
What is the HR Number for UW Platteville?
For current or prospective employees, students, or others needing to contact Human Resources at the University of Wisconsin–Platteville, the dedicated HR phone number is:
UW Platteville Human Resources Contact Number:
+1 (608) 342-1321
The HR office at UW Platteville provides support with employment inquiries, benefits, payroll, recruitment, and employee services.
Who is the Vice Chancellor for Research at the University of Wisconsin?
Research leadership is vital to advancing the university’s mission of innovation and knowledge creation. The Vice Chancellor for Research at the University of Wisconsin–Madison directs research initiatives, promotes interdisciplinary collaboration, and facilitates compliance with research regulations.
Current Vice Chancellor for Research
The current Vice Chancellor for Research is Gita Bangera. Bangera’s role includes supporting faculty research programs, securing funding, fostering partnerships with industry, and overseeing research compliance and ethics.
Role Highlights:
- Facilitating large-scale research projects and interdisciplinary initiatives.
- Supporting grant applications, funding acquisition, and research commercialization.
- Ensuring adherence to regulatory and ethical standards in research.
- Promoting innovation and technology transfer activities.
- Encouraging student involvement in research and scholarly activities.
The Critical Importance of Human Resources and Research Leadership
The Vice President for Human Resources plays a foundational role in maintaining a supportive, efficient, and legally compliant workforce environment across the University of Wisconsin System. This leadership ensures that all campuses attract, develop, and retain talented faculty and staff who drive academic excellence and innovation.
Meanwhile, the Vice Chancellor for Research fosters a vibrant research ecosystem, enabling breakthroughs that contribute to scientific knowledge, economic development, and societal well-being.
Both roles, while distinct, are essential pillars supporting the University of Wisconsin System’s commitment to education, scholarship, and community impact.
