Senior Employee Relations Consultant

Sun Life • Waterloo, ON

3d • CA$80,000 - CA$128,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Employee Relations team advises managers, employees, and Human Resources Business Partners (HRBPs) on a wide range of complex employee relations issues, as well as contributing to designated HR practices across the organization. The Senior Employee Relations Consultant (ERC) works in partnership with all levels of employees and leaders in addressing specific, individual employment-related matters, including performance and attendance issues, harassment and discrimination complaints, accommodation requests, status changes, work-site relocations, and the termination of employment. This function also partners with other members of the broader Human Resources team and related functions to deliver timely solutions that support the business and ensure employees are treated fairly and in accordance with both Company practices and policies, as well as external employment legislation.

Requirements

• Post‑secondary education in Human Resources, Industrial Relations, Law, or a related field
• 3+ years of progressive experience in employee relations, employment law, or a related field, including managing complex or high‑risk matters
• Strong knowledge of Canadian employment and human rights legislation and its practical application
• Demonstrated experience conducting workplace investigations and managing complex employee relations files
• Proven ability to influence and coach senior leaders on sensitive matters
• Strong judgment and ability to assess and mitigate legal and reputational risk
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Highly collaborative, with a client‑focused and solutions‑oriented approach
• Ability to manage competing priorities independently in a fast‑paced environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Nice To Haves

• Bilingualism (French, English, both oral and written) is required for Quebec only

Responsibilities

• Provide timely, practical Employee Relations advice to leaders, balancing business objectives with legal and policy considerations
• Coach leaders and HRBPs on managing complex employee matters, including performance, attendance, accommodation, investigations, and terminations
• Lead workplace investigations end‑to‑end and support implementation of outcomes
• Assess risk and recommend strategies in relation to sensitive or high‑impact employment matters, including external complaints and potential litigation
• Manage communications with external counsel, tribunals, and other third parties, in partnership with Legal
• Support organizational changes (e.g., restructurings, workforce adjustments) by advising on employment implications and risk mitigation
• Identify trends and recommend improvements to Employee Relations programs, policies, and processes
• Contribute to the development and rollout of ER policies, tools, and training materials
• Participate in or lead cross‑functional projects as assigned

Benefits

• Wellness programs that support the three pillars of your health – mental, physical and financial

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Associate degree