Senior Associate Relations Partner

Hancock Whitney Bank • Gulfport, MS

3d

About The Position

The Senior Associate Relations Partner serves as a subject matter expert and advisor on complex associate relations matters. The role manages sensitive investigations, advises leaders on high-risk associate issues, and partners with Legal, Compliance, Risk Management, and HR leadership to mitigate organizational risk. The position drives consistency in employment practices and supports leadership development.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least 5 years of progressive Human Resources experience with significant associate relations responsibility conducting complex workplace investigations.
• Demonstrated expertise in employment law, risk mitigation, investigations, and workplace compliance.
• Strong verbal and written communication, conflict resolution, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong analytical, influencing, and leadership skills.
• Ability to use Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Ability to work under stress and meet deadlines.
• Ability to travel if required to perform essential job functions.
• Ability to operate related equipment and read and interpret documents if required to perform essential job functions.
• Ability to lift, move, or carry approximately 10 pounds if required to perform essential job functions, subject to accommodation.

Nice To Haves

• SHRM-SCP, SPHR, SHRM-CP, or PHR certification.
• Experience in banking, financial services, or another highly regulated industry.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex and high-risk investigations involving associate complaints, misconduct, ethics concerns, Integrity in Action reports, retaliation allegations, and potential regulatory or policy violations.
• Provide expert consultation to leaders and HR partners regarding performance management, terminations, and conflict resolution.
• Serve as the primary HR partner for investigations related to ethics, compliance, and SOX-related concerns involving associates.
• Develop investigation strategies, conduct interviews, prepare findings, and recommend corrective actions.
• Partner with Legal, Compliance, Risk Management, Internal Audit, and business leaders to address sensitive employment matters and reduce organizational risk.
• Analyze associate relations metrics and trends, recommending proactive solutions to improve workplace culture and associate experience.
• Guide leaders in creating development-focused action plans and performance improvement strategies for associates.
• Deliver training on workplace conduct, investigations, compliance requirements, and effective people management practices.
• Mentor Associate Relations Partners and provide expertise on complex case management.
• Support the development and continuous improvement of associate relations policies, procedures, and processes.

What This Job Offers

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