Sr. Director, Labor Relations

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

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans