Industrial Relations Manager

Loan Application

Department/Division:
Human Resources

Develop and implement Industrial Relations strategies and initiatives aligned with the Group’s and HR’s strategic plan.
Manage the day to day industrial relations activities including leading negotiations. collective bargaining and grievance hearings as well as chairing conciliation hearings.
Ensure the production of all relevant information relating to the Collective Bargaining, Grievance and Disciplinary Process including preparation of minutes, letters and associated documents.
Work collaboratively with the other members of HR Management to execute the Employee Engagement strategy to effect higher levels of employee engagement and productivity.
Work collaboratively with the other members of HR Management to provide human resource consulting services to managers/supervisors to proactively identify, pre-empt and troubleshoot industrial and employee relations risks.
Work collaboratively with the other members of HR Management to develop interventions around conflict and HR Risk.
Ensure the development and maintenance of relevant IR policies and procedures including the Code of Discipline.
Provide guidance the application of relevant policies, procedures and laws to managers and employees across the Group.
Manage the performance of direct report to ensure effective performance and the achievement of team goals and strategies.
Ensure effective reporting on trends as well as making recommendations for arresting negative trends where required.

Monitor and evaluate workforce practices to ensure adherence to labour regulations.
Measure effectiveness of IR risk mitigation strategies.
Work collaboratively with the other members of HR Management to advise management on matters related to HR terms and conditions of employment.
Review employee contracts to ensure compliance on matters such as wages, hours, or conditions of employment.
Prepare and submit required governmental reports or forms related to labour relations matters, such as regulatory or compliance documentation.
Ensure compliance with Safety and Health at Work (SHAW), Employment Rights Act (ERA) and other relevant legislations across the group of companies.
Manage the development and maintenance of Health and Safety programmes and initiatives.

Mediate discussions between employer and employee representatives in attempt to reconcile differences and resolve disputes.
Investigate and evaluate union complaints or arguments to determine viability.

Liaise with union, company or other interested parties to discuss labour relations matters, such as contract negotiations or grievances.
Draft rules or regulations to govern collective bargaining activities in collaboration with company, government, or employee representatives.
Work with the Compensation & Benefits Manager to create and execute on the negotiations mandate.
Ensure collective agreements are articulated and completed.
Select and recommend mediators or arbitrators for labour disputes or contract negotiations.

Oversee the preparation of disciplinary letters and the management of the disciplinary process including the selection of the panel.
Advise on the procedures and documentation for disciplinary matters, such as written warnings, suspensions or terminations.
Provide expert testimony in legal proceedings related to labour relations or labour contracts.
Work collaboratively with Attorney’s and the Legal and Corporate Affairs Department to draft and submit correspondence and responses to the Labour Department and Employment Rights Tribunal.
Schedule or coordinate the details of grievance, investigatory or disciplinary hearings or other meetings. Ensure meetings are minuted.
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of the legal or regulatory environments.
Research case law or outcomes of previous case hearings and advise the Chief Human Resources Officer on approaches to be taken to address relevant matters.

Work with the Talent, Training and Development colleagues to train managers or supervisors on topics related to labour relations.
Work with the Talent, Training and Development colleagues to develop relevant Industrial Relations interventions.
Present Industrial Relations information to different audiences as required.

A Bachelor Degree in Human Resources Management, Employment Law, Industrial Relations or an LLB/LEC.
A minimum of 5 years’ related experience in industrial relations at a senior level.
Experience of end-to-end industrial relations case management with multiple stakeholders.
Demonstrates expertise in industrial relations, including negotiations, case management, and preparation of disciplinary hearings and tribunals up to and including dismissals and appeals.
Demonstrates expertise in employee consultation processes and requirements for consultation.
Demonstrates ability to provide strategic advice and interpretation of employment laws and collective agreements.
A member of CIPD, SHRM or equivalent.

Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills, ability to adapt style and tone to suit the audience, including experience in managing and influencing at executive level.
High level of attention to detail.
Sound judgement and decision-making in the handling of sensitive employee matters
Demonstrates an ability to prioritise a challenging workload and act with urgency, delivering to multiple, on occasion tight, deadlines.
Ability to assess risks with Industrial Relations issues and take appropriate steps to achieve resolution of industrial relations cases within the legal framework.
Client focused, providing excellent customer service.
Solid organisation skills with the ability to simultaneously manage conflicting and demanding clients, priorities and activities in a high-pressure environment.
Flexible in adapting to a dynamic, fast paced environment with a positive attitude and a drive for results.
Excellent interpersonal, analytical and organisational skills in order to interact with all levels of management and employees.
Good counselling and advisory skills balanced with influencing techniques.