Appeal Process for Compensation Classification
Initial Placement in 2025 Salary Structure
Administrative Professionals (Non-PSE)
Purpose: The purpose of this appeal process is to provide employees with a fair and transparent mechanism to request a review of their compensation classification if they disagree with the initial placement of their position in the 2025 Administrative Professional Salary Structure being implemented by Eastern Washington University. The process ensures that all appeals are evaluated by the employee’s supervisor, reviewed by Human Resources, and reviewed for approved at various levels of leadership, including executive leadership team, and the University’s president or designee. This is not an appeal process for salary, job title, or other compensation and classification related matters.
Step 1: Initial Appeal Submission
Employee Request: An employee who believes their initial placement into the 2025 Salary Structure does not accurately reflect their role, responsibilities, or market value may submit a written appeal. This appeal should include:
- A detailed explanation of why the employee believes their position is misplaced in the structure.
- Relevant supporting documentation, if any, such as a current job description must be included.
- Submit your written appeal on the Appeal Form.
Submission Timeline: The appeal shall be submitted within 10 business days of the employee receiving their classification decision. The employee shall submit the appeal to their supervisor with a copy to the Human Resources Office, HR@ewu.edu.
Step 2: Review by AVP/Designee
AVP/Designee Review: The AVP or designee will review the appeal and meet with the employee within 5 business days of receipt to discuss the rationale for the employee’s appeal and to discuss and obtain any additional information needed. The AVP may request an extension from Human Resources for extenuating circumstances.
The AVP/Designee will either confirm their understanding that the factual information provided by the employee is accurate and complete or confirm that the information provided in the appeal is inaccurate and/or additional relevant information should be considered. If the AVP believes relevant information was missing in the appeal, the AVP will provide that information. This information shall be submitted to the Human Resources Office, HR@ewu.edu.
Timeline: The AVP/Designee has 5 business days from the date of meeting with the employee to complete their review and submit their recommendation to the next level. The AVP may request an extension from Human Resources for extenuating circumstances. Requests must be submitted in writing and directed to HR@ewu.edu.
Step 3: Review by Human Resources
Human Resources will review the information provided by the employee and AVP/Designee and compare with similarly situated positions to help ensure consistency across similarly situated positions.
Step 4: Review by Executive Leadership Team Members
Executive Leadership Team Review: The appeal, along with the AVP/Designee’s and Human Resources’ input will be forwarded to the relevant executive leadership team member by Human Resources. The executive leader will conduct a thorough review, which may include meeting with the employee, consulting with the AVP and/or Human Resources for additional information and assessing the implications of the appeal on the department and institution.
Recommendation: The executive leadership team member will provide a recommendation to support or deny the appeal, along with a detailed rationale.
Timeline: This review should be completed within 5 business days after receiving the appeal from the AVP with the accompanying Human Resources assessment. The executive leader may request an extension from Human Resources for extenuating circumstances. Requests must be submitted in writing and directed to HR@ewu.edu.
The recommendation is presented to the Executive Leadership Team for assessment and to develop a recommendation to be submitted to the President or Designee with a copy to HR@ewu.edu.
Step 5: Final Review and Decision by the President or Designee
Presidential Review: The appeal and the accompanying input from the AVP/Designee, Human Resources, and the executive leadership team member will be presented to the president of the institution. The president or designee may request additional information or clarification before making a final decision.
Final Decision: The president or designee’s decision will be the final determination regarding the appeal. This decision will be documented in writing and communicated to the employee.
Timeline: The president or designee should render a decision within 5 business days of receiving the appeal from the executive leadership team member. The President or designee may request an extension from Human Resources for extenuating circumstances. Requests must be submitted in writing and directed to HR@ewu.edu.
Step 6: Communication of the Decision
Notification: The employee will receive written notification of the final decision, including the reasons for the decision. Human Resources will send the notification of the final decision to the employee. If the appeal is approved, the effective date of the new classification and any associated changes will also be communicated by Human Resources.
Confidentiality: All documentation and discussions related to the appeal process will be kept confidential and only shared with those directly involved in the review and decision-making process.
Record Keeping: A complete record of the appeal, including all supporting documents, recommendations, and final decision, will be maintained in the employee’s personnel file.
This process is designed to ensure that all appeals are handled consistently, fairly, and in alignment with institutional policies and goals.
