HR Business Partner Karlie Passey Drives Success at University of Nevada Las Vegas

Understanding the Role of an HR Business Partner at UNLV

The University of Nevada Las Vegas has evolved its human resources strategy to align more closely with campus needs. At the core of that evolution is the HR business partner model—a role that delivers tailored support to specific departments rather than a one‑size‑fits‑all approach. Karlie Passey, the senior human resources business partner for Business Affairs, exemplifies how this model transforms everyday work and bolsters campus life UNLV.

What Does a Senior HR Business Partner Do?

Unlike traditional HR departments that handle every request through a central office, a senior business partner serves as a frontline resource. Passey manages recruitment, compensation analysis, employee relations, investigations, and organizational change initiatives specifically for Business Affairs. By staying embedded in the department, she ensures that staff receive timely, consistent, and personalized guidance.

Implementing the Business Partner Model at UNLV

When the Office of Human Resources built the partnership framework, Karlie was selected as the pilot for a single division. Her work helped set procedures that now cut through the bureaucracy that can otherwise slow hiring and problem‑solving. The result is a simpler, more transparent process that makes campus life UNLV more resilient and rewarding.

Karlie Passey’s Impact on Campus Life

Growing up in Nampa, Idaho, with a graduating class of just 22, Passey brought a small-town sense of community to a large university. That background informs how she builds relationships and ensures every colleague feels heard and supported.

Building Relationships in a Small‑Town Mindset

Her approach is relational—she goes beyond the business to understand the people. This aligns with UNLV’s mission to nurture collaborative academic and professional environments. By placing people first, Passey has helped foster a workplace where faculty, staff, and students can thrive.

Streamlining HR Processes for Business Affairs

Whether it’s expediting a compensation review or improving onboarding, her efforts have noticeably shortened turnaround times. The model encourages quick resolution of issues, reducing frustration and allowing Business Affairs to focus on its core mission of supporting the university’s administrative infrastructure.

The Human‑First Approach: Navigating Workplace Challenges

Empowering Supervisors

Passey highlights one of HR’s greatest strengths: the ability to empower supervisors. She mentors managers through conflict resolution and decision‑making, turning daunting processes into manageable steps. When supervisors gain confidence, workplace productivity and morale improve.

Demystifying HR for Employees

Many people view HR as a hurdle, but Passey reframes it as a partnership. By clarifying processes and providing clear communication, she reduces the perception of HR as a barrier and fosters an environment where employees feel supported rather than scrutinized.

Career Pathways and Lessons Learned

From English Student to HR Professional

Initially a candidate for a career in writing, Passey discovered that human resources offered her the mix of communication, problem‑solving, and advocacy that they sought. Her journey from an English major to a senior HR business partner is a blueprint for anyone pivoting into people‑centric roles.

Advice for Aspiring HR Partners

She advises younger professionals to trust their individual path: “Good for you, not for me.” Her guidance encourages using experience as a compass rather than an inflexible roadmap, which is essential for emerging HR leaders.

Integrating HR into UNLV’s Strategic Vision

Collaboration with Campus Leaders

Passey regularly partners with directors and senior administrators to align HR initiatives with UNLV’s broader goals. This cross‑functional teamwork ensures that employee development, talent acquisition, and organizational design support the university’s mission and priorities.

Future Goals for Business Affairs

Looking forward, Passey intends to build a work environment People genuinely enjoy visiting. Her focus on creating a friendly, supportive, and efficient atmosphere mirrors the university’s aim to make campus life UNLV a first‑rate experience.

Beyond the Office: Balancing Life and Work

Weekends, Parenting, and Personal Time

After a full workday, Passey’s weekends are spent with her family—walking her little son to the park in the morning and taking leisurely walks. This routine demonstrates the importance of personal time for sustainable performance in high‑responsibility roles.

Personal Touches: Baking and Community

She even shares her baking skills, claiming her chocolate chip cookies are a delightful way to relax and bring joy to others. Small acts like these contribute to a supportive culture, reinforcing the positive impact of HR on campus community.

Take Action: Enhance Your HR Journey at UNLV

If you’re interested in how HR can transform campus operations at a leading public university, you might consider several next steps:

• Schedule a free consultation to learn more about human resources careers at UNLV
• Discover how HR can elevate campus life and improve employee experience
• Submit your application today for a role that blends strategy, communication, and people skills
• Explore related articles for deeper insights into HR partnership models

By engaging with the HR business partner model, you can help create clear, consistent, and supportive processes that benefit every UNLV stakeholder. Join Karlie Passey and the Business Affairs team to build a thriving work environment where both people and programs succeed.