Administrative Policies and Procedures Manual - Policy 3000: Guiding Principles

Date Originally Issued: 01-01-1997
Revised: 01-29-1999

Process Owner: Vice President for Human Resources

1. General

The principles in this policy are based on the University's mission and values as expressed in the "Mission of the University" section of the "UNM Strategic Plan: The University of New Mexico's Vision for the Year 2000 and Beyond." These principles guide the University in its human resources practices and policies for staff employees. The reader should understand and apply these principles when interpreting and applying the policies in Section 3000 of this Manual.

2. Human Resources Commitments

It is through the following commitments that the University will reinforce its values and achieve its vision.

2.1. Staffing

The University follows recruitment and selection practices designed to provide the University with the highest quality employees who share the University's values and are reflective of the University's diversity goals.

2.2. Job Design and Structure

The University provides meaningful jobs and an organizational structure that allows employees to be effective because they understand the relationship between their specific duties and responsibilities and how they relate to the broader goals and programs of the University.

2.3. Advancement

The University provides enhanced career opportunities for employees who:

• are committed to their own career development,
• demonstrate continuous skills improvement, and
• are able and desire to assume new and greater responsibilities.

2.4. Compensation

The University provides competitive salary and benefit plans that support the University in its goal to attract and retain the best people. Compensation reflects internal equity and individual performance.

2.5. Performance Management

The University measures employee performance based on quality of work, ongoing improvement, and customer service. Performance management will be based on realistic expectations and will provide meaningful written feedback regarding job objectives. The University will provide development opportunities for career enhancement that recognize and reward the achievements of individuals and work groups.

2.6. Training and Development

The University provides training programs and continuing education opportunities necessary for employees to help them perform their role and responsibilities effectively, build upon their competencies in the changing work environment, and develop and enhance their careers in the University.

2.7. Policies and Procedures

Policies and procedures will be fair, equitable, open, comprehensive, easy to understand, and consistently administered. Policies will include guidelines for performance roles and responsibilities that provide clear direction with regard to institutional stewardship and accountability expectations.

2.8. Environment

The University and all employees will provide a humane workplace that is safe, healthy, respectful, and supportive of a diverse workforce.