Regional People Leader

SSP America • Chicago, IL

403d • $117,600 - $122,400

About The Position

The Regional People Leader at SSP America is responsible for providing exceptional HR leadership across multiple airport locations in the U.S. This role involves acting as the primary HR contact, managing labor relations, and ensuring compliance with employment laws while fostering a positive employee culture. The position requires strategic collaboration with senior management to align HR initiatives with business goals and deliver high-impact HR solutions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in human resources or related field required.
• Minimum 8 years of progressive HR experience, preferably in hospitality, food service, or airport industries.
• Proven experience in managing union-related activities, including grievances and collective bargaining.
• Strong employee relations skills to handle complex employee issues.
• Experience as an HR Business Partner supporting 8 or more locations.

Nice To Haves

• SHRM or HRCI certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the Primary HR Contact for all HR-related inquiries across assigned airports.
• Manage and resolve complex labor issues, including grievances, mediations, and arbitrations.
• Travel and train for the first 6 months to build relationships and understand daily operations, with up to 50% travel thereafter based on business needs.
• Collaborate with Senior Operations Management to align people strategies with business goals.
• Lead the execution of HR initiatives across 8 airport locations, supporting recruitment, performance management, compensation, and employee development.
• Monitor and analyze HR data to identify areas of improvement and implement strategic solutions.
• Ensure compliance with employment and wage laws across all locations.
• Lead HR programs that support talent development, succession planning, and organizational effectiveness.
• Partner with managers to deliver training programs that address local needs.
• Develop a communication cadence with stakeholders to ensure alignment on HR initiatives.

Benefits

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Food Services and Drinking Places
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees