SIUE Alumnus Ed Travis Joins the University’s Human Resources Team
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Human Resources department welcomes Ed Travis as Total Rewards-Benefits Manager. Travis joined the team Feb. 16. He received his bachelor’s in human resources management/personnel administration from SIUE, ‘07, and has since had a lengthy HR career with a number of corporations, which include the nonprofits American Red Cross and United Way.
“I am pleased to welcome Ed Travis to the team. Ed is a consummate professional who brings experience and a proven record of success in HR, which will be invaluable in meeting University goals and objectives,” said Carl Chambers, Director of Human Resources. “I am confident that Ed will be an excellent match and a strong asset to the Total Rewards-Benefits team and the Human Resources department. I look forward to collaborating with Ed to explore ways to provide a best-in-class employee value proposition to SIUE.”
Travis, originally from East St. Louis, Ill., holds the HR certifications Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) and Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP), and has been involved in multi-state HR operations throughout Missouri, Illinois, Texas and Oklahoma. He answers a few questions about his new role and returning to his alma mater.
Please explain the responsibilities of a Total Rewards-Benefits Manager and how this position at SIUE may be unique to previous experience. A Total Rewards-Benefits Manager is responsible for strategically reviewing current benefits and plans for the University to seize upon opportunities to enhance our current offerings now and into the future.
While attending SIUE, how familiar were you with the University’s HR department and what it would take to one day be hired? I was not familiar with SIUE’s HR department when I graduated; I had a mentor that was a HR Director in the Oil and Gas industry advising my career direction. My first HR role was actually in a food production plant as a HR Generalist, and it was the right fit for my background and personality.
You have quite a lengthy resume as an HR professional. What are the rewards that come with playing an integral part in personnel? I would say being able to facilitate positive change and to collaborate with others to create positive results for stakeholders.
In your experience, what questions should employees ask early in their employment to ensure a positive experience? For me personally, I always ask about the organization’s culture, growth opportunities and the rewards that can be acquired beyond monetary gain, I want to know that the work I do is meaningful and not just busy work.
Have you witnessed any specific life-changing moments with employees with whom you have shared benefit packages and knowledge? I cannot really say life-changing at this point, but there is a level of satisfaction when you can assist those that need assistance.
For students who may be interested in a human resources career, what are some of the different areas available to them? In general, Employee Relations, Talent Acquistion, Labor Relations, Training & Development, Benefits, Risk Management. Occasionally, based on an organization’s specific need, I have seen where an individual’s role can morph if the individual is open to the possibility. Personally, this is where I have seen the greatest seasons of growth in my career.
How does it feel being back on SIUE campus in this role? It feels great to be back on campus and to come full circle giving back to the institution that provided me with an outstanding education.
To learn more about SIUE benefit plans, contact Total Rewards Benefits manager Ed Travis at 618-650-2124.
PHOTO: Ed Travis, Total Rewards-Benefits Manager