Job SummaryThe Senior Specialist, Employee Relations, is a trusted member of the business HR team and serves as a key resource for employee relations matters across the Americas. This role partners closely with employees, managers, and HR colleagues to foster a positive, respectful workplace and provide thoughtful coaching and guidance on performance management, progressive discipline, conflict resolution, and employment risk. The position helps promote a consistent, people-centered approach to employee and labor relations in support of a high-performing culture.
Essential Job Duties and ResponsibilitiesEmployee Relations Support- Provide employee relations support to HR Business Partners, managers, and employees by offering proactive guidance, coaching, and practical solutions.
- Communicate policies, guidelines, and processes to support consistent application across the organization.
- Assist with performance assessments and the development of progressive discipline, including performance improvement plans for underperforming employees.
- Collaborate with HR partners, HR Services, and Legal on reduction in force actions, including risk analysis and exit process coordination.
Investigations and Case Management- Conduct initial and ongoing investigations into employee complaints and disciplinary matters, recommend appropriate resolutions, and escalate complex or legally sensitive issues as needed.
- Maintain clear, thorough documentation of investigation activity, including actions taken, recommendations, case summaries, and follow-up steps.
- Prepare and document involuntary terminations, including administration of severance packages.
Training and Continuous Improvement- Partner with the Learning and Development team to support delivery of compliance and employee relations training, such as business ethics and workplace harassment prevention.
- Track case trends and recommend preventive actions that strengthen a high-performing, people-centered culture.
- Identify opportunities for continuous improvement in employee relations processes and practices.
Education and Experience Education:
- Bachelor's degree in human resources, psychology, business, or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
Experience:
- 5years' professional working experience
- 3 years' experience leading employee relations cases
- 1 year experience with leave laws, FMLA, and ADA compliance preferred
- Experience and relevant knowledge in handling grievance investigations and resolutions a plus
Interpersonal and Communication Skills- Strong internal customer focus with empathy & compassion
- Strong written and verbal communication skills across all levels
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust and influence managers
- Strong conflict resolution, negotiation, and facilitation skills
Work Style and Mindset- High energy and enthusiasm for communicating future vision
- Strong attention to detail and data quality
- Committed to continuous learning and skill development
- Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively
Technical and Functional Capabilities- Strong process & documentation orientation with a focus on efficiency and customer experience
- Technically savvy with web-based platforms and case management tools
- Knowledge of U.S. labor and employment laws; exposure to Canada and Latin America preferred
- Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion
- Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Office skills
Working Conditions and Physical DemandsOffice environment. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
