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Campus Bulletin
April 29, 2005
New Assistant Vice-President (Human Resources) Named
Nancy Sullivan, vice-president (finance and administration), announced today that Martha Harley has been named assistant vice-president (human resources).
Harley was appointed following an extensive national search with assistance from an external consultant. She has served in senior roles in the human resources division at the University of Western Ontario for the past 17 years, most recently as director of staff relations.
“Martha’s many years of experience in a university environment, her commitment to strategic organizational planning and creating a change dynamic, and her experience in leading comprehensive employee and leadership development programs were major factors in the University’s decision to appoint her to this important leadership position at the University,” says Sullivan.
Harley earned an H.B.Sc. in genetics from the University of Western Ontario and is currently completing a certificate in alternative dispute resolution at Western. She is a member of the Human Resources Planning Society and serves as president of the Women’s Community House board of directors.
“I am excited about this opportunity to join the human resources team at the University of Guelph,” she says. “I believe in an integrative and facilitative approach to resolving issues. I look forward to working with members of the University community on creating a vision of innovation and engagement for success, and encouraging an environment of stimulation, contribution, recognition, development and learning.”
Harley will join U of G July 4. She will work closely with Brendan Soye, the acting assistant vice-president and manager of employee relations, throughout the transition period.
In making the announcement, Sullivan also expressed deep appreciation to Soye. “Brendan’s commitment to the University, the well-being of its employees and to staff in Human Resources is remarkable. His willingness, since 2004, to serve as acting assistant vice-president while continuing to lead the employee relations division speaks to his dedication and professional ability.”
Harley’s appointment will enable Soye, the University’s chief spokesperson in collective bargaining, to focus on negotiations with employee groups in the coming months, Sullivan says. Soye will remain the University’s primary contact for collective agreement issues.
Sullivan also thanked the search committee for its service and time commitment.
