Labour Relations Senior Specialist

at  Baycrest

JOB SUMMARY:

The Senior Specialist, Labour Relations is responsible for leading the day-to-day operations of a comprehensive Labour Relations service. The Senior Specialist, Labour Relations will partner with management and HRBPs to create and maintain a positive work environment and Management/Employee relations, by establishing and maintaining exceptional credibility and trust with employees, union leadership, and management. The Senior Specialist, LR will ensure consistent and equitable practice within the HR Department, and will provide expert Labour Relations leadership and guidance to Management and HR staff. This will include ensuring efficient and effective Labour Relations services that support Baycrest’s vision and values.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree in Industrial Relations is preferred. Minimum requirement is a combination of Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources and related experience
• Certified Human Resources Leader (‘CHRL’) certification is preferred
• Five (5) years’ experience in a unionized environment with a strong emphasis on Labour Relations
• Previous experience in a multi-union, non-profit organization, particularly a complex health care facility (Hospital and/or Long-Term Care facility) is preferred
• Extensive specialized knowledge of applicable legislation and regulations, including, but not limited to the Employment Standards Act, Labour Relations Act, Pay Equity Act, Occupational Health & Safety Act, Long-Term Care Act, Hospital Industrial Labour Disputes Act.
• Demonstrated effective negotiation, mediation and conflict resolutions skills.
• Strong knowledge/experience interpreting and applying the provisions of collective agreements
• Effective stakeholder engagement and interpersonal skills to ensure effective communication at all levels of the organization
• Ability to influence others and able to establish credibility with all levels of the organization, challenging the status quo and being a catalyst for positive change

1. Building leadership capacity through ongoing coaching, and training and development (30%)

• Act as a subject matter expert and provide expertise and guidance on complex labour relations matters, including performance management, attendance management, recruitment, discipline, hiring, terminations and investigations.
• Interpret multiple local, and central collective agreements for managers and various internal stakeholders
• Offering strategic advice to management on labor relations matters, including potential impacts of decisions on employee relations.
• Provide strategic guidance to ensure that business decisions are in line with the Collective Agreements, Baycrest policies/standard operating procedures and other employment standards and legislation.
• Contribute to the development and facilitate education programs for leaders in matters pertaining to labour relations

1. Grievance Management/Conflict Resolution (35%)

• Building and maintaining positive relationships with union representatives, management, and employees by facilitating open communication prior to engaging in the formal grievance process.
• Provide guidance to the HRBPs and people leaders on resolving early stage grievances.
• Addressing and resolving escalated grievances and disputes promptly and effectively, to reduce disruptions and promoting a positive working environment.
• Investigate labour complaints as needed.
• Leads in the gathering of information/evidence for grievances referred to arbitration and represents Baycrest at mediation and rights arbitration.
• Track and analyze grievances for trends, potential issues with language and identifies areas for improvement. Generates grievance updates for leaders.

1. Data Analysis, Compliance Monitoring (15%)

• Ensuring that the organization adheres to labor laws, regulations, and collective bargaining agreements, minimizing legal risks.
• Monitoring legislative changes, revising and implementing labor relations policies and procedures to ensure compliance with legislation and best practices.
• Collecting and analyzing data related to labor relations, such as grievance trends and arbitration awards, to inform decision-making.
• Preparing reports and documentation related to labor relations activities, negotiations, and compliance efforts.
• Analyzing labor relations data, identify trends and areas for improvement, enabling proactive strategies that enhance employee relations.

1. Collective Bargaining (10%)

• Participates and assists in the collective bargaining process; including development of mandate, preparation of materials, proposals and the interpretation/implementation of collective agreements and interest arbitration awards.

1. Relationship Management (10%)

• Partnering with the Union on Baycrest’s initiatives, fostering a collaborative relationship with the unions and maintain a positive work environment.
• Establish credibility and trust with employees, management and union leadership.
• Support/Lead various LR functions, such as Labour Management Committees, Staff Planning meetings, etc.
• Initiates and develops effective working relationships with external professional associations and peers in other health care institutions to maintain currency of current/emerging legislation, developments and trends.