JOB SUMMARY:

The conflict resolution process provides both informal and formal resolution processes. The Ombudsperson Office is an informal, flexible and consistent mechanism for dealing with conflict, facilitates early and open communication and encourages negotiation as a method of settlement. If resolution is not achieved, the ombudsperson helps facilitate in the next steps that need to be taken for the grievance process.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Provides the staff and managers with a resource to assist them in resolution of conflict in its earliest stages.  The Ombudsperson is neither an advocate for staff nor an agent of UTMB.  Rather, the Ombudsperson is a resource and advocate for fair processes.  The Ombudsperson remains neutral, considers all sides of a question in an objective, impartial manner, and then assists in conflict resolution.

• Adheres to the ethical principles of the University and College Ombudsman Association.

• Assists in clarifying issues that have created conflict or concern.

• Researches, and analyzes concerns and means for resolving issues.

• Frames issues and explores possible remedies.

• Provides information regarding possible remedies.

• Facilitates informal meetings and mutual resolution of concerns.

• Maintains confidentiality and impartiality.

• Develops and promotes positive, informal problem solving methods.

• Provides follow-up.

• Educates the UTMB community by promoting awareness of services and ongoing issues.

• Makes recommendations for the continuous improvement of informal early conflict resolution.

• Adheres to internal controls

MARGINAL OR PERIODIC JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Publishes annual statistical report.

• Recommends corrections to policies and procedures at any institutional level.

• Other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE:

Bachelors Degree and 5 years of relevant experience including 2 years management leadership experience.

 EQUIPMENT:

Standard office equipment.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT/LOCATION OF POSITION:

Standard hospital, clinical, laboratory and/or office environments. 

OTHER:

Specific job requirements or physical location of some positions allocated to this classification, may render this position security sensitive, and thereby subject to the provisions of Section 51.215, Texas Education Code.

 ANY QUALIFICATIONS TO BE CONSIDERED AS EQUIVALENTS IN LIEU OF STATED MINIMUMS REQUIRE THE PRIOR APPROVAL OF THE VICE PRESIDENT FOR HUMAN RESOURCES AND EMPLOYEE SERVICES.