Applicants must have a Master's degree (although education and experience may substitute) and four years of relevant experience. A relevant degree, five years of Ombuds or related work experience, higher ed experience, and restorative justice or social justice conflict resolution strategies experience are all preferred. No salary indicated. Applications will be reviewed starting May 30, 2022. (UVA Posting.)
Prior posts: Sobering Story of a Suicide Offers Glimpse Into Work of Ombuds; University of Virginia Ombuds Provides More Details About Campus Bullying; Audit by University of Virginia Finds No Record of Bullying, Upholds Role of Ombuds.
Hmmm, it seems that organizations often add lines about operating according to IOA standards, but if you look more closely, there are indications to the contrary. First, the Ombuds is subordinated to the DEI office rather than a direct line to the President. Second, the "Ombuds Policies" subpage (https://eocr.virginia.edu/ombuds-policies) states, "The ombuds will investigate complaints and concerns ... The ombuds has sole discretion as to whether a complaint warrants investigation, and what the scope of an investigation shall be." And although the Ombuds has no decision-making authority, "The ombuds will make recommendations regarding a complaint or grievance to appropriate officials," and if the Ombuds is not satisfied "may seek relief from a higher authority of the appropriate party." It does not seem like the role is structured for success as an informal resource when the position responsibilities intermingle duties one would expect to see in an audit, compliance and oversight function.
ReplyDeleteBingo. This is an advocate/investigator in ombuds' clothing.
ReplyDeleteI think this is an overly critical conclusion. In practice, this program operates like most university ombuds. Brad Holland has been protective of his visitors and scope of work for many years.
ReplyDeleteHis FAQ's make this pretty clear: https://eocr.virginia.edu/ombuds-faqs
DeleteAs mentioned above, while a lot of the descriptions and the FAQs align, having investigative duties prominently outlined in an office policy seems, on its face, to carry a lot of weight. I suspect a lot of certified Ombuds might hesitate from even applying for fear of losing their credential.
DeleteOne of my goals with this blog is to highlight even flawed jobs with the hope that qualified and knowledgeable ombuds will apply and prompt the organization to bring the position within IOA standards. It's happened several times that I know about. For that reason, I hope that potential applicants are forewarned, but not dissuaded.
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