Job description
Join our premier manufacturing and industrial relations team as a Senior Industrial Relations Manager in Chicago. You will lead strategic labor relations initiatives, negotiate with unions, and ensure policy compliance across facilities. This role blends expert knowledge of labor laws with a consultative approach to stakeholder engagement, driving workforce harmony and business performance.
We value proactive problem-solvers who can navigate complex negotiations, implement fair processes, and mentor a high-performing IR team.
Responsibility
- Lead and manage all labor relations activities across multiple plants, including collective bargaining, contract administration, and grievance resolution.
- Develop and implement IR strategies that align with business goals and legal requirements.
- Negotiate collective bargaining agreements and wage settlements with unions, ensuring favorable but fair outcomes.
- Advise senior leadership on policy changes, risk assessment, and organizational design related to labor relations.
- Coordinate with HR, safety, and operations to foster a productive and compliant workplace.
- Provide coaching and training to managers on discipline, performance management, and conflict resolution.
- Monitor regulatory changes and lead policy updates, audits, and investigations as needed.
Qualification
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, Industrial Relations, or a related field; master’s degree preferred.
- 5+ years of experience in industrial relations, labor relations, or union negotiations.
- Strong knowledge of federal and state labor laws, wage and hour regulations, and OSHA compliance.
- Proven negotiation, mediating, and conflict resolution skills with a track record of successful settlements.
- Excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder management abilities.
- Experience leading IR teams and implementing policy changes across multiple sites.
- Data-driven mindset with HR analytics and performance metrics.
- Ability to travel as needed and work in a dynamic manufacturing environment.