About Brian Dickens

Brian Dickens is the chief human resources officer for the University of Tennessee System. In this role, Dickens is responsible for planning, developing and implementing statewide initiatives that support employee engagement. Administration areas include system recruitment, employee and organizational development, compensation, inclusion, diversity and engagement, data analytics, reporting, payroll, benefits and retirement services. The office also ensures compliance with federal, state, and University labor standards and policies. He collaborates with the UT system, campus and institute leadership, human resources officers and diversity officers. Dickens joined the UT System on Dec. 1, 2019, following a national search.

As part of his personal and professional ethos, Dickens strongly emphasizes his social responsibility. He firmly believes that we are responsible for positively impacting society and the environment in which we operate. By integrating social responsibility into his endeavors, Dickens aims to contribute to the well-being of the communities and the planet and foster a culture of ethical decision-making and sustainable practices. Dickens is committed to leveraging his skills and resources to drive meaningful change and create lasting, positive impact through his daily interactions as a thriving individual contributor. He also serves as a Board member of both The Knoxville Police Foundation and Leadership Knoxville and is a graduate of Leadership Knoxville Class of 2023.

Dickens earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Prairie View A&M University in 1994, a Master of Arts in counseling in 1995, and a doctorate in educational administration and human resource development from Texas A&M University in 2015. He is a member of the 100 Black Men of America and a proud member of the Beta Theta Chapter of the Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity.