Senior Associate, Employee Relations

Rainforest Alliance • Amsterdam, NY

2d • €53,108 - €66,385 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Associate, Employee Relations is part of the HR Shared Services (HRSS) function and is responsible for the execution and handling of employee relations processes and cases across multiple countries. Within the HR operating model, you will ensure that employee relations matters are managed in a standardized, compliant, and employee-centered way. You will support Senior People Business Partners to focus on strategic advisory and complex organizational topics. Additionally, it allows Centers of Excellence to define employee relations policies and frameworks. Furthermore, it enables HR Shared Services to deliver efficient, high-quality case management and operational support. The Senior Associate, Employee Relations reports to the HR Manager, Europe.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Human Resources, Business, Law, or a related field.
• 5–8 years of experience in Employee Relations with hands-on case management across multiple countries.
• Demonstrated experience in labor/industrial relations, including working with works councils or employee representatives.
• Knowledge of employment law and ER best practices across different jurisdictions.
• Ability to manage sensitive situations with objectivity.
• Ability to work in a structured, process-driven, and fast-evolving environment.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end employee relations cases, including performance management and performance improvement plans, absenteeism, illness and reintegration, conduct disciplinary actions and grievances, workplace conflicts and wellbeing-related cases.
• Act as a trusted advisor to people managers by coaching them through sensitive employee situations.
• Stay informed on relevant employment law updates and ensure their application.
• Maintain accurate case documentation, records, and audit trails.
• Ensure smooth collaboration and handoffs between internal departments and provide an employee-centered experience.
• Escalate complex, high-risk, or sensitive cases to Senior People Business Partners or Legal following defined governance.
• Analyze employee relations trends and case patterns to identify organizational risks, recurring themes, and opportunities for preventive action.
• Improve adoption of new ways of working by guiding managers and employees toward standardized processes, accurate data management, and appropriate use of HR systems and workflows.
• Support the coordination and preparation of works council consultations.
• Maintain operational relationships with employee representative bodies and Legal.
• Conduct or support internal investigations following the Code of Conduct and investigation protocols.
• Coordinate with external providers (e.g. occupational health, wellbeing, outplacement).
• Ensure smooth execution of services and support to employees and managers.

Benefits

• Be a part of a global organization with an impactful mission and a collaborative, respectful, and accountable culture.
• Enjoy opportunities for professional growth and career development.
• Benefit from remote working flexibility and flexible hybrid working environment.
• A favourable time‑off policy.
• Prioritize your wellbeing. We have numerous ways to promote work-life balance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior