Unless I’m mistaken, the role of an HR rep is to be a positive extension of HR to your office, correct? This includes being a support system and a resource for all employees. If that is your understanding as well, then I’d have to say that your HR rep certainly doesn’t seem to be fulfilling her role very well.

The fact that you take issues to your boss for advice and for his/her suggestions is very appropriate. In fact, it would be a mistake not to do this. With that said, is it possible that instead of dealing with issues with your employees, you are passing them on to your boss to deal with? Hopefully not, because that could be problematic and we would need to talk about that. I’ll assume that is not the case.

My suggestion would be to talk with your boss about your concern with the HR rep, but not so much in a “tattle-tale” kind of way but in a “seeking advice on how to hand” kind of way. But be prepared, it could involve bringing your HR rep’s supervisor into the discussion as well. I’m sure HR would not be happy to hear about her tactics.

Sam, by escalating this, you may alienate some of your employees that are already siding with the HR rep. All I can say is, welcome to management! Respect is more important than friendship, and this may be one of those times where you will have to draw that line.

Unless there is something you have not told me, I’d say go ahead and address this head on.