JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY:

The Senior Director, Labor and Associate Relations is responsible for implementing strategies to manage and enhance the relationship between the organization and its associates in the Region the role covers. This role will report to the VP of Labor Relations and partner closely with the Region President, VP HR, and VP Corporate Operations. A core focus will be on promoting a people first culture, evolving the labor relations function in the Region, and ensuring compliance with labor laws and regulations. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in labor relations and legal principles, aimed at enhancing associate engagement and conflict resolution.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Labor or Industrial Relations, Business Administration, or related field and/or equivalent training and work experience
• 8+ years of experience in labor relations, associate relations, or a related area, with specific expertise in union environments
• Advanced PC skills using MS Office and other various computer programs including presentation software
• Must be a results-oriented professional with strong verbal/written communication and research skills
• Ability to influence outcomes with patience, follow-through, professionalism and confidentiality
• Ability to multi-task, work independently and/or within a team, pay attention to detail and meet deadlines
• Analytic and Reporting skills
• Ability to work in fast-paced, high-volume, team environment

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school, with a focus on labor law strongly preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to remain in a stationary position at times; communicate, and operate a computer and telephone
• This position requires travel approximately 50% of the time

COMPETENCIES:

• Requires conceptual thinking to understand complex issues and their implications, where sufficient information may not be available.
  This job description is only a summary of the typical functions of this position, not an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all possible job responsibilities, tasks and duties. Responsibilities, tasks, and duties of individual jobholders may vary from the above description.

Associate Relations:

• Develop and oversee implementation of associate engagement initiatives tailored to the unique needs of the Region.
• Support the resolution of associate concerns and conflicts, mediating discussions as necessary.
• Lead sponsor of the Breakthru Experience, embedding all aspects of the Labor Strategy people first culture throughout the region.

Labor Relations:

• Prepare for and negotiate initial and renewal collective bargaining agreements in first chair capacity.
• Monitor compliance with labor laws and organizational policies across all Region locations, providing guidance to management and associates regarding union-related matters.
• Studying regional union dynamics to identify emerging trends and staying informed on the latest labor developments.
• Lead campaign efforts across the region. Designing and implementing communication strategies aimed at enhancing associate awareness.
• Collaborate with HR, Corporate Operations, and Communications teams to ensure consistency in messaging and effective outreach to associates.

Data Analysis and Reporting:

• Collect and analyze data related to associate satisfaction, turnover, and labor relations issues within the East Region to inform decision-making. Prepare reports and presentations for regional management to highlight trends and recommend action plans that align to the Breakthru Beverage labor strategy.

Training and Development:

• Oversee training programs for managers and associates in the Region on topics such as conflict resolution, grievance handling, working with the union, etc

Collaboration and Communication:

• Foster strong relationships with associates, management, and union representatives in the Region to promote a collaborative work environment.
• Participate in cross-functional teams to address company-wide initiatives and challenges specific to the Region.

Other duties, as assigned may also be required.