Employee Relations Manager

WESTAMERICA BANK•Fairfield, CA

14h•Onsite

About The Position

Westamerica is among the largest commercial banks headquartered in California. We are looking for outstanding people to join our winning team. We reached our current strength because our employees, customers, and shareholders believe in the same fundamental goals: Delivering a wide variety of financial services with a superior customer service guarantee. JOB SUMMARY The Employee Relations Manager is responsible for leading and administering employee relations programs for a 700-employee community banking organization. This role ensures consistent, compliant, and fair application of policies, supports a positive workplace culture, and mitigates organizational risk. This role oversees investigations, performance management processes, workplace accommodations, and regulatory compliance while providing recommendations to the HR Division Manager.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Psychology, or related field (or equivalent experience)
Minimum of 5 years of progressive HR experience, including workplace investigations, ADA accommodations and interactive process, and Leave of absence administration (FMLA/CFRA and related laws)
Prior experience managing or leading a small team required
Successful experience working in a fast-paced environment
Ability to manage simultaneous tasks to meet deadlines on continuous basis
Excellent multi-tasking and time management skills
Effective written and verbal communication skills, including ability to successfully explain complex information to audiences
Strong attention to detail and accuracy
Self-motivated, able to work independently and as part of a team
Ability to continuously adhere to multiple compliance regulations
Continued demonstration of sound judgement
Working knowledge and experience using computer and Microsoft Office applications
Experience working with HRIS or HCM systems (Paylocity experience preferred)
Regular on-site attendance required during regular business hours
Ability to commute to other locations as needed

Nice To Haves

HR certifications (PHR or SHRM-CP) preferred
Experience in a regulated industry (banking or financial services) preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead and supervise Employee Relations function, including direct oversight and mentoring of an Employee Relations Representative and Administrative Assistant
Serve as a trusted advisor to managers on employee relations matters while balancing business needs with compliance and employee experience
Oversee and conduct complex workplace investigations, ensuring timely, thorough, and legally compliant outcomes
Manage conflict resolution efforts and promote proactive issue resolution strategies
Oversee performance management program, including disciplinary actions, annual reviews, and introductory period assessments
Ensure consistency, fairness, and documentation standards across all departments
Provide guidance to managers on performance improvement and corrective action
Manage employee recognition programs (e.g. Employee of the Month, Loss Prevention Awards, etc.)
Partner with leadership to enhance programs that support employee engagement and organizational culture
Serve as trusted advocate for employees while balancing business needs with compliance and employee experience
Review and validate involuntary termination requests, assess risk, and provide recommendations to HRDM
Support HRDM in responding to legal matters and complaints filed with EEOC, CRD, etc.
Manage unemployment claims and workers’ compensation programs
Manage ADA accommodations and lead interactive process to ensure compliance with gov’t regulations
Provide guidance to Leave of Absence administrator to ensure compliance, consistency, and alignment with company practices and precedent
Utilize HR systems to track cases, maintain documentation, and generate reports
Analyze trends and provide insights to improve employee relations strategies and reduce risk
Recommend policy updates based on regulatory changes and evolving business needs
Facilitate Safety Committee meetings and lead organizational safety initiatives, including fire drills and compliance activities
Participate in special projects and perform other duties as assigned