Job description
We are seeking a Senior Industrial Relations Manager to lead strategic labor relations initiatives for a modern manufacturing organization. The role focuses on fostering constructive union and employee relations, ensuring compliance with labor laws, and shaping policy across multiple sites in the Chicago region.
As a trusted advisor to leadership, you will design negotiation strategies, manage investigations, and drive programs that improve workforce engagement and productivity.
Responsibility
- Lead and execute labor relations strategy across facilities in the region, including collective bargaining, negotiations, and grievance management.
- Partner with HR, legal, and operations to develop and implement policies that align with business goals and regulatory requirements.
- Manage union relationships, conduct bargaining preparation, and coordinate with cross-functional teams to minimize disruptions.
- Investigate workplace issues, progressive discipline, and conflict resolution using principled, data-driven approaches.
- Analyze labor metrics, trend data, and risk assessments to inform executive decisions.
- Represent the organization in external forums, regulatory bodies, and with labor unions; drive training and awareness programs.
- Drive continuous improvement in IR processes, policy development, and compliance.
Qualification
- Bachelor's degree in HR, Business, Law, or related field; Master's preferred.
- 7+ years of experience in industrial relations, labor relations, or HR with unionized environments.
- Proven track record in collective bargaining and contract negotiations.
- Deep knowledge of labor laws and regulatory frameworks (U.S. NLRB, OSHA, etc.).
- Excellent negotiation, facilitation, and mediation skills.
- Strong analytical skills with experience using data to drive decisions.
- Experience in conflict resolution and investigations; strong communication and interpersonal abilities.