Renee S.
Renee S.
Associate Director-Employee Experience
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"Let your authenticity come through. Show us who you are and how your values align with ours. NMU looks for individuals who bring both skill and passion to their work. Take time to learn about NMU’s mission, core values and culture. Ask questions! People at NMU are open, caring and willing to help in so many ways."

Career path

About Renee S.

Key Experience
My career has allowed me to learn and lead in all aspects of human resources. I started as a HR Coordinator. Through my career growth I had promotional opportunities to become an HR Generalist, HR Manager, Employee Relations Specialist and most recently my roles as Assistant Director to Associate Director, specializing in employee and labor relations. I have worked in senior living at a coroprate office, healthcare, and higher ed. My career has been enriching and I am passionate about the employee experience at all levels.
Current Position
As the Associate Director of Employee Experience at NMU, I work with leaders and employees to identify and deliver programs that support the employee experience through engagement, recognition, development, and retention while supporting University values and culture. I am responsible for facilitating and managing the resolution of employment and union concerns and grievances, administering human resources policies and procedures, and effectively interpreting multiple collective bargaining agreements. I also oversee the performance management process, staff recognition experiences and programs, assessing and recommending work environment improvements, manage the employee ADA accommodation process.
Main Motivation
Choosing where to work is about more than finding a job — it’s about finding a place where you can belong, grow, and make a difference. At Northern Michigan University, I've found all three. NMU is a community of dedicated professionals who share a common purpose: supporting student success and strengthening the experience for everyone who works, learns and lives here. Our employees bring their skills, ideas, and individuality to a workplace that values collaboration, innovation, and care. Located in the beautiful Upper Peninsula, NMU also offers a lifestyle that balances meaningful work with the natural beauty of the region. I've found NMU is a place where you can build a rewarding career while enjoying a strong sense of community and purpose.
Top Advice
Let your authenticity come through. Show us who you are and how your values align with ours. NMU looks for individuals who bring both skill and passion to their work. Take time to learn about NMU’s mission, core values and culture. Ask questions! People at NMU are open, caring and willing to help in so many ways.
Greatest Achievement
I’ve grown both personally and professionally at NMU thanks to a supportive team and opportunities to learn, lead, and connect. I have been afforded autonomy in how I approach my work. I’ve built strong relationships across campus and the community. Most importantly, I feel my contributions truly matter here. Due to my connections from NMU and the greater HR community I was elected into the UPHRA Board in 2022 and was nominated for SHRM Michigan's Volunteer of the Year for the past two years.