Sr. Director, Labor Relations

Dairy Farmers of America•Kansas City, KS

About The Position

Direct and oversee labor relations programs, policies, and procedures. Establish and maintain positive and productive labor-management relations, negotiate contracts, interpret collective bargaining agreements, and administer grievance procedures and arbitrations. Provide guidance on labor-related issues to senior management. Ensure compliance with labor laws and federal and state regulations.

Requirements

Undergraduate degree in Human Resources, Industrial Relations, or related curriculum (or equivalent combination of experience and education)
12 or more years of labor relations, human resources, or related experience
Knowledge of and skill with Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems
Considerable knowledge of Human Resources practices, labor laws, and regulations; management-labor relations; and collective bargaining agreements
Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to lead, manage, and develop deep talent expertise
Able to translate complex theoretical and deliver practical and relevant solutions
Able to develop assessment instruments to assist in monitoring compliance standards
Able to maintain confidentiality of information and identity and handle priority or sensitive issues with discretion
Able to investigate and analyze information and provide solutions
Able to foster collaboration and promote a positive mindset and approach
Able to respond courteously and efficiently to inquiries, complaints, and requests
Able to provide effective and tactful communication skills with all levels of the organization
Skill in analytical thinking and problem solving
Skill in critical thinking with strong time-management, organization, multi-tasking, and prioritization
Skill in strategic negotiations
Must be able to read, write and speak English

Nice To Haves

JD preferred
PHR or SPHR certification preferred

Responsibilities

Contribute to the development of and implement comprehensive labor and employee relations. Formulate and recommend program goals and objectives in all areas of labor relations
Monitor labor market trends, legislative changes, and industry best practices to inform strategy development and opportunities for improvement
Lead negotiations for collective bargaining agreements with labor unions
Develop negotiation strategies, prepare proposals, and ensure effective communication throughout the negotiation process
Mediate conflicts between management and employees or unions to maintain positive labor relations
Investigate, address, and resolve labor disputes, grievances, employee appeals, and disciplinary actions in a timely and fair manner
Recommend problem resolution to management and employees in both union and non-union environments
Identify and mitigate labor-related risks. Establish and implement work standards, policies, and procedures
Partner with business leaders to develop and implement key change management actions to improve employee and business performance
Ensure compliance with all relevant labor laws, regulations, and collective bargaining agreements
Build and maintain positive relationships with labor unions, employee representatives, and other stakeholders
Work closely with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), EEOC and other regulatory agencies in resolving claims filed against the organization
Provide expert advice and guidance on labor relations matters to senior management and HR teams
Develop and deliver training programs on labor relations topics for managers and supervisors
Prepare and present reports on labor relations activities, outcomes, and metrics to senior leadership
Oversee the labor relations team in developing labor strategies and negotiating union contracts
Plan, coordinate, and direct the work of staff engaged in various labor relations activities
Advise management on best practices for handling employee and labor relations issues