Ombuds

Primary Purpose
The Ombuds offers neutral and confidential guidance on a variety of issues for all faculty students and staff at the university using the International Ombuds Associations (IOA) standards of practice and code of ethics. The Ombuds serves as an independent impartial confidential and informal conflict management practitioner for members of the University of the Pacific community who are experiencing challenging circumstances relating to the University. For example the Ombuds addresses concerns relating to interpersonal conflicts (such as those that might arise between professor/student students or co-workers) as well as academic work-related or living environment concerns. The Ombuds provides information to faculty staff and students (visitors) about the formal and informal options available to resolve concerns and offers practical assistance to navigate challenging circumstances successfully. With the permission of the involved visitors and if appropriate for a particular circumstance the Ombuds mediates disputes and confirms resolutions. The Ombuds provides workshops to the University community on effective strategies for navigating challenging circumstances. As a senior administrator of the University the Ombuds is also expected to identify system-based concerns (such as an ineffective policy) and serve as a thought partner on creative and effective solutions. This role reports to the Chief General Counsel of the University to ensure support of the confidential nature of the Ombuds.

Essential Functions
Provide a safe venue for faculty staff and students to air concerns relating to the University. Listen and discuss. Identify what a positive resolution might look like. Describe formal and informal processes available to resolve concerns. Provide answers to questions about University processes. Assist faculty staff and students in evaluating options and assist in developing a plan that best serves the goals of the visitor. With permission manage resolution of disputes among multiple parties acting as a designated neutral resource. Identify system-based concerns (such as an ineffective policy) and where confidentiality permits serve as a thought partner on creative and effective solutions. Provide workshops to the University community and to groups within the University about effective strategies for navigating challenging circumstances and for having difficult conversations. Maintain confidentiality to the extent permitted by law. Keep anonymized records regarding cases and workload including information regarding status of visitors (faculty student staff other) and campus affiliation. Create an annual report with key metrics and accomplishments. While maintaining confidentiality of individual visitors of the Ombuds meet regularly with the Chief General Counsel to discuss system-wide matters and review caseload and workshops. Maintain an on-person presence on all three of Pacifics campuses on a generally regular schedule. Flexibly provide assistance at Pacifics three campuses based on identified needs. To ensure a community of practice the Ombuds will be expected to join and participate in Ombuds organizations; the position will be supported with reasonable conference and professional development opportunities. Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned. Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures. Other duties may also be assigned. University of the Pacific recognizes that diversity equity and inclusion is foundational to the success of our valued students and employees. We prioritize policy and decision-making that demonstrates awareness of and responsiveness to the ways socio-cultural forces related to race gender ability sexuality socio-economic status etc. impede or propel students faculty and staff.

Minimum Qualifications
JD PhD PsyD LCSW (or similar advanced degree) or advanced certificate in mediation. Five (5) years of relevant experience. Valid drivers license.

Preferred Qualifications
Certification in mediation and/or completed Ombudsman Training 101 202 given by the International Ombudsman Association. Outstanding communication skills both orally and in writing with individuals at all levels of the organization. Ability to display a firm commitment to fairness and respect in the workplace a genuine desire to promote a supportive climate for all members of the Pacific community sensitivity to cultural and ethnic diversity and the ability to manage difficult and contentious situations. Demonstrated mediation and/or conflict resolution skills. Mature judgment and a thorough appreciation of and sensitivity to the academic environment of the university. High degree of credibility and integrity; must be able to interact effectively with academic and administrative leadership and with staff at all levels while at the same time maintaining independence and objectivity. Strong interpersonal organizational and administrative skills. Knowledgeable about the university its structure culture policies and practices. Experience and sensitivity in working with people of diverse backgrounds and cultures. Demonstrated experience in advancing social justice equity and inclusion in a university setting. Ability to engage and integrate culturally responsive practices and knowledge in their work.

Work Schedule
Work is performed during standard hours; rarely may work after hours or on weekends. Will work on a Pacific campus five (5) days per week. Primary workspace will be out of the Stockton campus with a minimum of two (2) days per month being spent at each of the Sacramento and San Francisco campuses.