People & Culture Advisor

at  Thompson Rivers University

This position provides operational guidance, support, leadership and knowledge in all facets of Human Resources to all levels of the University (VP to Support Staff) with considerable amount of independence, discretion, and initiative. The intended impact is to further enhance:

• management’s capability and capacity in their HR roles and responsibilities
• employee development, engagement and career opportunities at TRU
• the fostering of positive relationships with union representatives
• the effective and efficient day to day operational transactions within the HR department.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS

• Bachelor’s Degree specializing in Human Resources Management.
• Three years of experience.
• Proven ability in building collaborative working relationships with employees at all levels, including union representatives
• Strong interpersonal, problem solving, and decision making abilities
• Provide sound professional advice and direction for all aspects of Human Resources to all levels within the organization
• Ability to identify clients’ needs and provide advice, guidance and planning related to a variety of initiatives that support strategic directions.
• Proven ability to work as an integral member of a highly functioning human resources team to deliver high quality services to the University’s communities.
• Excellent verbal and written skills
• Strong computer knowledge (Microsoft Office Suite).
• Demonstrated experience in delivering presentations to large and small groups.
• Ability to supervise and mentor other HR staff

• Advise, support and coach employees at all levels (VP’s Support Staff) in the interpretation and application of three collective agreements, administrative agreement and TRU policies. Recommend creative solutions to a variety of issues and conflicts; working collaboratively with managers and union representatives to promote proactive, problem-solving approaches to human resources issues and the resolution of pre-grievances and disputes.
• Develop, maintain and authorize HR/Payroll/Finance processes, procedures, systems and plans in the areas of: recruitment, position identification, compensation & benefits, probation, performance reviews, promotion, employment leaves and termination while adhering to timelines, University policies and needs compliance with collective agreements, benefit carriers and employment laws and making appropriate adjustments where needed.
• Research, analyze, prepare and participate in Step 1 and 2 grievances; coach managers through the process and recommend effective remedies. Prepare University’s written response. Research grievances prior to arbitration and provide input into arbitration preparation.
• Lead, supervise, coach and support HR Assistants and Clerks in their day to day operational transactions and responsibilities
• Research, design, enhance and conduct training workshops and provide daily coaching in the areas of: orientation, performance management, progressive discipline, national and international recruitment, job evaluation, employee engagement, benefits and collective agreement interpretation
• Research, develop and manage HR projects, plans, process and procedures in the areas of: disability management, tuition waivers, continuing sessional tracking, salary increments, HRIS enhancement.
• Research, develop and recommend human resources strategic and tactical plans for the University. Ensure all plans are in alignment with University’s strategic plan. Make recommendations with respect to University policies and procedures that are consistent with legislation, and collective agreements.
• Manage internal and external complaint driven processes related to the University’s Harassment, Human rights, Employment Equity, and Conduct Policies including promoting best practices, researching and compiling information for submissions, appointing investigators where required and ensuring compliance with collective agreements and legislative requirements
• Gather, prepare, analyze data required for collective bargaining negotiations; may be asked to participate in negotiations
• Research and collaborate with external third parties, Manulife, Ceridian, Mercer, BC Pension Corp, WCB, Employment Standards, Human Rights, Human Resources and Skills Development Canada, Citizen and Immigration Canada, various recruitment firms, HR Associations, and other Universities
• Participate on various joint committees (ie: Disability Management, Joint Employee/Union committees, etc).