Employee Relations Advisor

Old Second National Bank•Downers Grove, IL

19h•$70,000 - $100,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Employee Relations Advisor is responsible for providing level 1 Employee Relations support, assisting with employee engagement initiatives, and supporting leadership development activities. Key functions include evaluating a wide range of issues pertaining to performance, policies and procedures, collaborating with multiple levels of management, advising on sensitive topics, and assisting with event planning. Strong interpersonal skills, good judgement, excellent written and oral communication skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively are vital for success in this role.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree and three or more years of human resources experience, preferably in a financial institution setting; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Commitment to the bank’s objectives for employee relations, engagement and talent management practices and impact
High level of personal integrity and ability to manage sensitive information while maintaining confidentiality
Demonstrated professionalism, assertiveness and confidence
Knowledge of and ability to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace
Ability to consistently deliver exceptional customer service
Knowledge and understanding of employment law and legal best practices
Ability to assess and explain legal risks and convey importance of employee relations and coaching strategies
Knowledge of current technologies and word processing, database, presentation, and spreadsheet software, specifically Microsoft Office applications
Ability to collaborate and communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, and to relate to others in a professional, helpful manner
Skilled at multi-tasking with strong organization skills, prioritization, and attention to detail
Ability to work independently while contributing to a team environment
Strong analysis skills with ability to detect key issues, identify solutions, and take appropriate action to resolve situations using independent judgment and decision-making processes
Effective at establishing and maintaining strong working relationships with employees at all levels in various lines of business throughout the bank

Nice To Haves

Experience advising supervisors and managers on sensitive matters
Experience with event planning or coordinating logistics for training sessions or meetings

Responsibilities

Collaborate with supervisors and managers on employee relations matters pertaining to performance issues, workplace conduct, and policy and procedure violations. Provide guidance on company standards and approval for coaching and disciplinary action.
Advise managers on legal matters with involvement from HR Management and internal/external legal counsel as needed. Stay abreast of legal updates and best practices.
Conduct investigations to address and resolve employee complaints and grievances, ensuring fair and impartial handling of cases. Complete interviews and prepare documentation to be evaluated with HR management as needed.
Administer exit interview surveys and contribute to analysis of feedback identifying themes and trends to be shared with HR management.
Support leadership development initiatives by assisting with logistics for training sessions and events, partnering with internal and external trainers and vendors, and managing enrollment and attendance.
Process invoices and track expenses ensuring events and activities stay within budget.
Participate in planning and overseeing the logistics and communications for annual company event centered on employee engagement. Respond to event inquiries, track attendance and assist with working the event.
Develop and promote educational resources focusing on wellness-related topics across the organization.
Perform other related duties as assigned related to overall employee engagement, performance management and talent development.