University of Pittsburgh Vice Chancellor for Human Resources James Gallaher Jr. is pleased to announce that the University has hired Tonia Suber into the newly created role of Assistant Vice Chancellor of Employee and Labor Relations. She begins her new position on August 12, 2024.

In her new role at Pitt, Ms. Suber will lead the development of a comprehensive and integrated employee and labor relations strategy applying to all 12 existing bargaining units, new unionization efforts, and all other non-union staff. This strategy will include ensuring fair and equitable administration of employee relations issues, ensuring compliance with labor laws, and fostering positive relationships between University administration and various labor groups.

Ms. Suber is a Pittsburgh native and proud Pitt alumna (B.S., ’90), where she competed as a track and field student athlete. She received her master’s degree in Organizations & Leadership from Capella University. She comes to Pitt having recently served as Chief People Officer of University of California, San Francisco Benioff Children's Hospital. She brings with her more than two decades of expertise in human resources, employee and labor relations, strategic operations, DEIAB, conflict resolution and organizational development. Her diverse industry background includes higher education, healthcare, public school, pharmaceutical and non-profits. 

“The University is excited to bring aboard Tonia Suber to head up our labor relations initiatives,” Gallaher said. “Her extensive human resource leadership experience provides the background necessary to work with a broad range of University constituents and leaders, our talented Employee and Labor Relations staff, and our employee union representatives, toward our goal of continuing a positive and inclusive working environment here at Pitt."

"It's a privilege and honor to join OHR and serve in the capacity of Assistant Vice Chancellor of Employee and Labor Relations," Suber said. "Accepting the call to return to Pitt, and Pittsburgh, to do what I love was an easy decision. I’m looking forward to partnering with Dr. Gallaher, Employee and Labor Relations, and other key stakeholders to ensure that each employee (union or non-union affiliation) is afforded an exceptional team member experience. Hail to Pitt!"