UW-Madison Ombuds remain available to serve the university community. At this time we are primarily working remotely by phone or video conferencing. In-person meetings are possible by special arrangement. Contact us at: 608-265-9992 and leave a message, or via email at uwombuds@mailplus.wisc.edu.
There are currently no position openings on the UW-Madison Ombuds team. The next anticipated opening is June 2024. Information on how and when to apply will be posted closer to that time.
About the Ombuds Office
The Ombuds Office was created to provide an alternative resource for all UW–Madison and UW-Extension employees (faculty, academic staff, university staff, graduate assistants, post-docs, and student staff members) seeking assistance with work related issues.
The Ombuds Office is comprised of retired UW employees representing faculty, academic staff and university staff who have developed their expertise from having served decades on this campus and in different disciplines. Ombuds provide an informal, safe, confidential opportunity to be heard, explore concerns, and consider resources, options and strategies for next steps to address workplace problems. Ombuds are impartial and work independently from university administrative offices, advocating for fairness and equity in the workplace, rather than representing any side in a dispute. Essential skills routinely used by an ombuds include engaged listening, reframing issues and developing options, and helping people help themselves.
Ombuds are selected from among interested retired faculty, academic staff, and university staff to achieve the greatest breadth and depth for the program, and a balance among these three categories is desired. Ombuds generally serve a term of three years; however, the appointment length is negotiable.
Contact
The Ombuds Office does not have regular office hours. To arrange an appointment, please contact us by phone or email.