Senior Labour Relations Specialist

at  Victoria University

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Professionals / Managers & Confidentials – Human Resources
Posting Date: September 30, 2024
Closing Date: October 14, 2024
Position Title: Senior Labour Relations Specialist
Department: Human Resources
Appointment Type: Continuing/Permanent
Classification: PM – 4
Salary Range: $90,000 - 125,286
Schedule: Full time, Monday – Friday.
Victoria University is committed to equity in access to employment and a diverse and inclusive workplace. The University encourages applications from racialized persons/persons of colour, women, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQI+ persons, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas. If you require accessibility accommodation, please contact the Human Resources Department vic.hr@utoronto.ca

POSITION SUMMARY:

We are looking for a talented labour relations expert to join our human resources team. Reporting to the Director, Human Resources, you will be responsible for managing labour relations related work with managers, unions, colleagues and other key partners, interpreting collective agreement provisions, and conducting in-depth analysis to support bargaining and the management of grievances, while supporting productive and solid working relationship with union representatives, leaders and employees.
This position also provides client relations and human resources advisory services to a portfolio of unionized areas within the University, including recruitment, job design, leave and disability management, performance, attendance and discipline, and other employee and labour relations matters.

EDUCATION

University Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in a related disciple (e.g., human resources, labour relations, business administration, or Law), or equivalent in education and experience. CHRP, CHRL is an asset

EXPERIENCE

• Seven (7) years’ progressively responsible and related human resources experience, with expertise in labour relations activities related to the interpretation and application of collective agreements, employment legislation (e.g. Employment Standards Act, Human Rights Code, Employment Equity principles) and policy provisions.
• Previous experience in a post-secondary environment is preferred
• Experience in conducting workplace investigations and dispute resolution
• Experience in managing grievance processes and resolution, including the preparation of material for mediation and arbitration
• Experience in presenting management positions during union and management meetings, at the bargaining table, and at grievance hearings.
• Demonstrated experience applying Equity Diversity Inclusion and Accessibility lens to all facets of professional responsibilities
• Knowledge of employment legislation, including the Employment Standards Act, 2000, the Ontario Health and Safety Act and Human Rights Code rules and regulations
• Strong qualitative and quantitative research and analytical skills, mathematical aptitude to support statistical report creation, interpretation and data-driven recommendations.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written) grounded in sound decision making and problem-solving orientation with a demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Demonstrated ability to deal with sensitive issues with tact, diplomacy, professionalism and compassion
• Team oriented relationship builder with strong interpersonal and client service focus with a friendly and positive outlook
• Demonstrated creativity, flexibility, initiative and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in the use of word processing and spreadsheet applications (e.g. Google Suite, Microsoft Office, etc.), internet browsers, email applications, HR Information Systems and related web-based applications, and survey and statistical applications

Labour Relations

• Acts as a partner to leaders and managers by providing expert knowledge of Labour Relations issues and providing advice on resolution
• Leads in all aspects of the collective bargaining process, including identifying and presenting trends to guide management planning and decision making, managing the preparation of materials, drafting of proposals, negotiating and assisting the University’s spokesperson, and acting as a spokesperson when required
• Leads the finalization of collective agreement documents and the implementation of agreements post-bargaining
• Actively contributes to the development, implementation, and evaluation of the University’s labour relations strategies. Provides insights based on research and trends within and across multiple bargaining units.
• Leads the grievance process, including case preparation, analysis and provides recommendations to assist in the development of strategies for grievance response and issues resolution
• Leads and manages Labour Management committee meetings
• Assesses and analyzes labour relations operational issues, making impactful recommendations
• Manages the University’s Attendance Awareness Program for unionized employees
• Leads the development and implementation of training for Managers on Labour Relations matters such as collective agreement interpretation and application, attendance, discipline and effective conflict resolution and supports the development of Managers in collaboration with other members of the HR team.
• Leads workplace investigations for assigned portfolios as appropriate, preparing and communicating the findings.
• Maintains the centralized case tracking system to ensure effective and efficient organization. Uses data to consistently track, report and trend labour relations across several bargaining units.

Client Relations

• Provides consultation and advice to managers and staff on a variety of human resources matters including, staffing, recruitment, job design, sick leave, attendance/absenteeism, performance, discipline and provides strategies for resolutions
• Acts as a partner to managers by providing knowledge and advice on relevant labour and employment related issues, including collective agreement interpretation and application, legal issues, and harassment policies
• Collaborates with external Disability Management Consultant, Managers, and employees on Short Term Disability leaves, Long Term Disability leaves, WSIB plans, accommodations, safe and healthy return to work programs, and Family Leaves.
• Maintains knowledge of best practices in human resources and related employment legislation including Employment Standards, the Human Rights Code, OHSA, ODA, WSIB Act, Labour Relations Act, and common law associated with hiring and dismissal.