Fox retires from 30-year UC HR career

John Fox, executive director of Human Resources, plans to retire April 1 after more than 30 years of service to the University of California, the last five years serving UC Agriculture and Natural Resources.

Fox joined ANR as executive director – human resources in 2015 after serving 25 years in the UC Office of President. 

After earning a bachelor's degree in English Literature at UC Berkeley, Fox accepted his first job with UCOP as an administrative assistant processing disability claims for the retirement system. From there, he progressed through a series of positions including retirement policy, benefits communications, project management, and Chief of Staff to the Vice President of Human Resources.

“I and the senior leadership of ANR have thoroughly enjoyed working with John these last five years,” said Tu Tran, Associate Vice President for Business Operations. “I will always be grateful to him for taking on new responsibilities and important projects with me to improve the climate and well-being of the ANR communities.”

Among the highlights of his contributions to UC ANR, Fox implemented the multi-year compensation equity programs for UCCE advisors and staff, which were designed to elevate ANR's compensation structures to more competitive levels. Most recently Fox played a critical role in implementing the ANR@work Survey, which gives ANR staff and academics an opportunity to give unfettered feedback and guidance to ANR leadership. In response to the survey results, he worked with ANR members and leadership to establish the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Council for ANR. 

His retirement plans include biking, beer brewing, home improvement projects and he hopes someday soon to begin traveling around the U.S. and the world. 

“I personally benefited every day from John's advice, dedication and strong work ethic,” Tran said.

With Fox's departure, Bethanie Brown will become interim executive director of Human Resources. Academic Personnel Director Tina Jordan will also assume new responsibilities – overseeing ANR's Learning and Development unit and serving as ANR's Affirmation Action compliance officer, representing ANR at systemwide meetings and councils.

Decisions regarding recruitment for executive director of Human Resources will be made later this year when UC ANR's budget picture is clearer.

 

 

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