University of Wisconsin System officials today received approval from the Joint Committee on Employment Relations to begin implementation of two new personnel systems within the UW System.
These new personnel systems are required by legislation, with implementation originally scheduled to have begun in 2013, but later delayed until July 1, 2015. Today’s approval makes the July 1 implementation deadline a reality for UW System institutions, including the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh.
The two university personnel systems will be developed― one system for UW-Madison employees and another for all other UW System employees―by taking the aspects of the unclassified and classified service that work best and creating one system of university employment. The new systems are aimed at being simple and consistent to meet the needs of UW System colleges, universities and extension.
UW System President Ray Cross said he is highly encouraged by the support from legislative leaders for the new University Personnel System (UPS). UW Oshkosh leaders agree.
“I am pleased with the action taken by the Joint Committee on Employment Relations to approve the new University Personnel Systems. This action will provide UW Oshkosh with enhanced flexibility in many of its employment practices. It will enable us to enhance our policies and practices to attract and retain excellence in our workforce. The trust demonstrated by the committee in the UW System to allow for greater independence and flexibility is greatly appreciated,” UW Oshkosh Chancellor Richard Wells said.
Tim Danielson, director of human resources at UW Oshkosh, said he’s grateful for the approval of the new University Personnel Systems and looks forward to the benefits it will afford the current and future workforce at UW Oshkosh.
“As President Cross said in his statement, this will energize our campus and allow us to begin development of UPS prior to its implementation date of July 1, 2015. Hiring authorities and employees will appreciate the enhanced flexibilities in our employment practices,” Danielson said.