Job description
Aurora Labor and IR Partners is seeking a seasoned Industrial Relations Manager to lead complex IR initiatives for our diverse client base. This role demands strategic thinking, strong negotiation skills, and a commitment to lawful, fair employment practices.
As part of our IR leadership team, you will partner with HR, Operations, and Compliance to shape policies, manage union relations, and drive enterprise-wide labor relations programs.
Responsibility
- Develop and lead a comprehensive industrial relations strategy across multiple sites, ensuring compliance and risk mitigation.
- Manage and oversee collective bargaining agreements, negotiations, and contract administration.
- Advise executive leadership and site management on IR matters, policy implications, and change management.
- Lead the resolution of workplace disputes, investigations, and employee grievances with speed and fairness.
- Monitor and interpret federal, state, and local labor laws; implement policies to maintain compliance and minimize exposure.
- Collaborate with HR, safety, and operations to design and implement workforce engagement initiatives and attendance programs.
- Build and maintain positive relationships with labor unions, employee associations, and external consultants.
- Analyze labor metrics and trends to inform strategy and report to senior leadership.
Qualification
- Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field; Master's preferred.
- 5+ years of progressive experience in industrial relations, labor relations, or equivalent HR experience.
- Strong knowledge of labor laws and regulations across applicable jurisdictions; experience with collective bargaining required.
- Proven track record in negotiations, conflict resolution, and policy development.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills; ability to influence at all levels.
- Experience working with unions, employee representatives, and external counsel; strong stakeholder management.
- Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and translate into actionable insights.
- Professional certifications (e.g., SHRM-SCP, SPHR, IR Specialist) preferred.