Direct and oversee labor relations programs, policies, and procedures. Establish and maintain positive and productive labor-management relations, negotiate contracts, interpret collective bargaining agreements, and administer grievance procedures and arbitrations. Provide guidance on labor-related issues to senior management. Ensure compliance with labor laws and federal and state regulations.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:- Contribute to the development of and implement comprehensive labor and employee relations. Formulate and recommend program goals and objectives in all areas of labor relations
- Monitor labor market trends, legislative changes, and industry best practices to inform strategy development and opportunities for improvement
- Lead negotiations for collective bargaining agreements with labor unions
- Develop negotiation strategies, prepare proposals, and ensure effective communication throughout the negotiation process
- Mediate conflicts between management and employees or unions to maintain positive labor relations
- Investigate, address, and resolve labor disputes, grievances, employee appeals, and disciplinary actions in a timely and fair manner
- Recommend problem resolution to management and employees in both union and non-union environments
- Identify and mitigate labor-related risks. Establish and implement work standards, policies, and procedures
- Partner with business leaders to develop and implement key change management actions to improve employee and business performance
- Ensure compliance with all relevant labor laws, regulations, and collective bargaining agreements
- Build and maintain positive relationships with labor unions, employee representatives, and other stakeholders
- Work closely with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), EEOC and other regulatory agencies in resolving claims filed against the organization
- Provide expert advice and guidance on labor relations matters to senior management and HR teams
- Develop and deliver training programs on labor relations topics for managers and supervisors
- Prepare and present reports on labor relations activities, outcomes, and metrics to senior leadership
- Oversee the labor relations team in developing labor strategies and negotiating union contracts
- Plan, coordinate, and direct the work of staff engaged in various labor relations activities
- Advise management on best practices for handling employee and labor relations issues
- The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned as required
Education and Experience- Undergraduate degree in Human Resources, Industrial Relations, or related curriculum (or equivalent combination of experience and education); JD preferred
- 12 or more years of labor relations, human resources, or related experience
- Certification and/or License - PHR or SPHR certification preferred
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities- Must be willing to travel 2+ weeks per month
- Knowledge of and skill with Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems
- Considerable knowledge of Human Resources practices, labor laws, and regulations; management-labor relations; and collective bargaining agreements
- Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to lead, manage, and develop deep talent expertise
- Able to translate complex theoretical and deliver practical and relevant solutions
- Able to develop assessment instruments to assist in monitoring compliance standards
- Able to maintain confidentiality of information and identity and handle priority or sensitive issues with discretion
- Able to investigate and analyze information and provide solutions
- Able to foster collaboration and promote a positive mindset and approach
- Able to respond courteously and efficiently to inquiries, complaints, and requests
- Able to provide effective and tactful communication skills with all levels of the organization
- Skill in analytical thinking and problem solving
- Skill in critical thinking with strong time-management, organization, multi-tasking, and prioritization
- Skill in strategic negotiations
- Must be able to read, write and speak English
