Human Resources (HR) & Labour Relations (LR) Business Partner

The Universal Group•Ottawa, ON

2d•CA$75,000 - CA$80,000

About The Position

The Universal Group, recognized as one of Canada's Best Managed companies in 2026, has an exciting opportunity for a Human Resources & Labour Relations Business Partner! Reporting to the VP-Human Resources, you will serve as a strategic advisor and partner to the organization, ensuring the alignment of human resources and labor relations functions with the company's business objectives. This role encompasses a broad spectrum of responsibilities, focusing on managing and enhancing the relationship between key stakeholders with the organization, unions, and its workforce.

Requirements

Minimum level of education equivalent to a bachelor’s degree.
Minimum 5 years of experience in an HR/LR advisory or BP role with a track record of progressive scope of responsibility in unionized environments.
Minimum of 3 years of experience in unionized environments are required.
Expert understanding of employment regulations and legislation.
Solid knowledge of employment, labour, and privacy laws.
Proven abilities with office productivity software and HRIS systems (e.g. BambooHR/ADP).

Nice To Haves

Bi-lingual in French and English would be a strong asset.

Responsibilities

Offer subject matter expertise in Human Resources and Labour Relations services.
Serve as a trusted advisor to frontline management and leadership on HR and LR matters.
Provide guidance on HR policies, procedures, and best practices.
Collaborate with management to deliver HR programs aligned with business objectives.
Partner with internal clients to integrate talent programs into strategic plans.
Continuously seek value-add opportunities and risk mitigation.
Utilize business intelligence (BI) for data-driven decision-making and improvement opportunities.
Execute talent management strategies to enhance retention and employee experience.
Deliver talent programs, including Continuing Education and leadership development.
Offer guidance and support on performance management, employee relations, and HR compliance.
Assist in developing compensation and benefits strategies for attracting and retaining top talent.
Oversee the implementation of employee engagement initiatives to enhance job satisfaction.
Ensure compliance with all HR-related legal and regulatory requirements.
Maintain and organize HR administrative and services.
Act as lead representative for the regional employers as assigned for all union relationships and transactions.
Support senior management and executive leadership on tactical approaches to union and performance matters.
Manage and nurture relationships with union representatives as well as internal clients.
Deliver advisory services to assist management in handling of performance and behaviour.
Support management to continually improve employment knowledge, best practices, and leadership.
Support negotiations of supplementary agreements outside principle CBAs (MOAs, LOUs, etc.).
Interpret and apply collective agreements, respective employment legislation, and Human Rights principles.
Produce bargaining preparation including cost modeling and research.
Facilitate grievance handling at all steps including preparation for potential arbitrations.
Assist in preparing responses for arbitration and human rights claims.
Maintain in-depth knowledge and understanding of unionized workforces and labour trends.
Conduct workplace investigations.
Support attendance management.
Respond to all daily employee emails and phone calls within 48 hours.
Provide guidance to employees by answering questions or investigating concerns.
Updates employee files as necessary.
Liaise with all stakeholders by responding to requests in a timely fashion.