Job Posting: University of North Carolina at Greensboro
The public research university in central North Carolina has reposted its opening for an Ombuds. This is the fourth posting by UNCG: an earlier request for proposals in the fall of 2021 for an "Ombudsman" was extended and then closed without a contract being awarded; then in March 2022, the university opened a search for employee. This is a renewed posting for a full-time University Ombuds, who will report to the Provost and provide services to faculty and staff. (The initial RFP said the Ombuds would also serve students.) The job posting also indicates the potential for an additional part-time Ombuds staff and/or graduate assistants to be hired as services increase.
Applicants must have a Masters degree (or an equivalent combination of education and experience including conflict resolution training), at least five years of professional work experience as an Ombuds in a professional workplace or in a closely related position in a university setting, and formal training in conflict management or certification. Preferred qualifications include an advanced degree, conflict resolution training, and five years of professional work experience in conflict resolution, including two or more years experience in Ombuds-related work at a college or university. Prior postings did not include a salary range; the revised posting indicates the job will pay $80,000 to $90,000. No application deadline indicated. (UNCG Posting.)
UNCG has a pleasant campus community and Greenville is a city with a number of positive amenities. While the provost seems genuinely interested in having the position succeed, the general counsel, who seems to have a particularly close relationship with the chancellor, appears hostile to a strong and independent ombuds office. Likewise, a number of the provost's direct reports are hostile to the equalizing effect that an ombuds can have on a campus. Whoever takes this job will need to be aware of the leadership's questionable commitment to the ombuds role and the open hostility from powerful forces. There is a readon that this four-time process has dragged out so long.
UNCG has a pleasant campus community and Greenville is a city with a number of positive amenities. While the provost seems genuinely interested in having the position succeed, the general counsel, who seems to have a particularly close relationship with the chancellor, appears hostile to a strong and independent ombuds office. Likewise, a number of the provost's direct reports are hostile to the equalizing effect that an ombuds can have on a campus. Whoever takes this job will need to be aware of the leadership's questionable commitment to the ombuds role and the open hostility from powerful forces. There is a readon that this four-time process has dragged out so long.
ReplyDeleteGood insight
ReplyDeleteThey have had serious budget issues and eliminated multi-year contracts for non T&TT faculty. I wonder whether the ombuds can command one.
ReplyDeleteAnd still the position remains unfilled, and the Provost has announced deep budget cuts.
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