Employee Relations Manager

Apple Federal Credit Union•Fairfax, VA

About The Position

This role is responsible for managing and overseeing employee relations activities to ensure fair, consistent, and legally compliant treatment of staff across the Credit Union. Under general supervision, but following established policies and procedures, this position serves as a trusted advisor to leaders and employees regarding workplace concerns, investigations, corrective action, and performance management matters. The Employee Relations Manager leads complex employee relations cases, provides guidance on policy interpretation, and supports leadership in addressing sensitive and high‑risk employment issues. This role partners closely with People & Culture leadership, Legal, and Risk Management to promote a respectful, inclusive, and high‑performing workplace. This role also provides leadership and oversight for the Culture and Connections Committee and Employee Resource Groups, supporting initiatives that promote inclusion, engagement, and alignment with Apple FCU values. Performs duties and responsibilities in accordance with The Apple Way principles of Team Up, Serve With Purpose, Challenge Yourself, and Own It. Remains cognizant of and adheres to Credit Union policies and procedures, including regulations pertaining to the Bank Secrecy Act. Performs other job duties as assigned by the VP of People and Development and/or Chief People Officer.

Requirements

Minimum 5-8 years of progressive experience in Employee Relations, HR Business Partner, or related roles.
Demonstrated experience conducting complex workplace investigations.
Strong knowledge of employment laws, including FLSA, FMLA, ADA, EEO, HIPAA, and related regulations.
Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field.
Strong judgment and discretion when handling sensitive matters.
Ability to influence and partner effectively with leaders at all levels.
Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and complex cases simultaneously.
Working knowledge of HRIS platforms and employee relations case management systems.
Proficiency in MS Windows and Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, CoPilot).
The ability to lift 25 lbs. and utilize standard office equipment.
Some travel required.

Nice To Haves

Experience in regulated or financial services environments preferred.
HR certification (PHR, SPHR, SHRM‑CP, SHRM‑SCP) preferred.

Responsibilities

Responsible for leading and managing employee relations matters, including workplace complaints, policy violations, conduct issues, and performance concerns. Conducts or oversees timely, thorough, and unbiased investigations. Prepares investigation summaries, findings, and recommendations for leadership. Ensures documentation is accurate, complete, and audit‑ready.
Advises leaders on corrective action, including verbal warnings, written warnings, final written warnings, Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs), and terminations. Reviews and approves corrective action documentation to ensure consistency, clarity, and legal defensibility. Partners with leaders to balance accountability with employee development.
Interprets and applies People & Culture policies and procedures to ensure consistent application across the organization. Partners with Legal and Compliance to mitigate employment‑related risk and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws.
Serves as a trusted consultant to leaders and employees by providing guidance on employee relations issues, conflict resolution, documentation practices, and appropriate escalation. Promotes early intervention and proactive resolution of workplace concerns.
Maintains employee relations records and case documentation in designated systems (e.g., HR Acuity, ADP, Cornerstone). Tracks trends and metrics related to investigations, corrective actions, and employee relations activity. Prepares reports and insights for People & Culture leadership.
Partners with Training & Development to design and deliver manager training on employee relations topics, including documentation, corrective action, investigations, and respectful workplace expectations.