Labour Relations Specialist (Vancouver)

at  Loblaw Companies Limited

Referred applicants should not apply directly to this role.
All referred applicants must first be submitted through Workday by a current Loblaw Colleague.
Come make your difference in communities across Canada, where authenticity, trust and making connections is valued – as we shape the future of Canadian retail, together. Our unique position as one of the country’s largest employers, coupled with our commitment to positively impact the lives of all Canadians, provides our colleagues a range of opportunities and experiences to help Canadians Live Life Well®.
At Loblaw Companies Limited, we succeed through collaboration and commitment and set a high bar for ourselves and those around us. Whether you are just starting your career, re-entering the workforce, or looking for a new job, this is where you belong.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Specialist, Labour Relations supports the execution of labour relations strategies in partnership with the LR Managers, as well as the implementation of Company policies, programs, and procedures.

What you’ll do:

• Advise and provide support to the business on employee relations matters as they pertain to labour relations, the interpretation of the Collective Agreement and applicable employment legislation.
• Ensure effective communication of existing/new policies and standards.
• Establish and maintain constructive communication and effective working relationships with HR, Management, and designated union representatives.
• Advise and at times conduct meetings involving union & store management.
• Prepare material for & conduct training seminars as the need arises.
• Interpret relevant legislation (Employment Standards Act, Labour Relations Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, etc.) and provide advice and counseling.
• Support LR Managers with the preparation and review of their grievance & arbitration files and make appropriate recommendations to management.
• Provide analysis and necessary preparation for the collective bargaining process
• Assist LR Managers by responding to applicable grievances issued on behalf of management and/or franchisees (written and verbal communication).
• Coordinate and participate actively in the labour relations committee with the union.

What you’ll need:

• Post -secondary education with Concentration in Labour Relations or Human Resources preferred
• 2-3 years of Labour Relations/Human Resources experience
• Strong digital literacy required in MS Office
• Retail experience considered an asset
• Strong Organizational and Interpersonal skills
• Exceptional interpersonal communication and problem-solving skills
• Ability to prioritize and manage time effectively
• Strong communication (verbal and written) and conflict resolution skills
• Valid Driver’s license required
• Out of province/travel to stores may be required

Our commitment to Sustainability and Social Impact is an essential part of the way we do business, and we focus our attention on areas where we can have the greatest impact. Our approach to sustainability and social impact is based on three pillars – Environment, Sourcing and Community – and we are constantly looking for ways to demonstrate leadership in these important areas. Our CORE Values – Care, Ownership, Respect and Excellence – guide all our decision-making and come to life through our Blue Culture. We offer our colleagues progressive careers, comprehensive training, flexibility, and other competitive benefits – these are some of the many reasons why we are one of Canada’s Top Employers, Canada’s Best Diversity Employers, Canada’s Greenest Employers & Canada’s Top Employers for Young People.
If you are unsure whether your experience matches every requirement above, we encourage you to apply anyway. We are looking for varied perspectives which include diverse experiences that we can add to our team.
We have a long-standing focus on diversity, equity and inclusion because we know it will make our company a better place to work and shop. We are committed to creating accessible environments for our colleagues, candidates and customers. Requests for accommodation due to a disability (which may be visible or invisible, temporary or permanent) can be made at any stage of application and employment. We encourage candidates to make their accommodation needs known so that we can provide equitable opportunities.

• Advise and provide support to the business on employee relations matters as they pertain to labour relations, the interpretation of the Collective Agreement and applicable employment legislation.
• Ensure effective communication of existing/new policies and standards.
• Establish and maintain constructive communication and effective working relationships with HR, Management, and designated union representatives.
• Advise and at times conduct meetings involving union & store management.
• Prepare material for & conduct training seminars as the need arises.
• Interpret relevant legislation (Employment Standards Act, Labour Relations Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, etc.) and provide advice and counseling.
• Support LR Managers with the preparation and review of their grievance & arbitration files and make appropriate recommendations to management.
• Provide analysis and necessary preparation for the collective bargaining process
• Assist LR Managers by responding to applicable grievances issued on behalf of management and/or franchisees (written and verbal communication).
• Coordinate and participate actively in the labour relations committee with the union