Job Summary
The Senior Associate, Labor & Employee Relations performs audits to ensure compliance with laws and company policies, culture, identify areas for improvement and provide expert advice to management on employee conduct and HR policies to reduce legal risks and foster a positive work environment. They also conduct investigations into workplace issues like harassment, discrimination, and policy violations, gathering facts through interviews and document analysis to produce reports with recommendations. They ensure the company maintains a positive and productive work environment aligned with our organizational values and objectives in both unionized and nonunionized settings. They support the design and delivery of labor and employee relations strategies and initiatives.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
1. Day-to-day collaboration with the works council and negotiating work agreements.
2. Conduct site and documentation audits for compliance with HR policies and legal requirements.
3. Stay informed on federal, state, and local employment laws to ensure best practices.
4. Provide expert advice to HR, managers, and leaders on employee relations and disciplinary actions.
5. Collaborate with Legal and Compliance departments for consistent case handling.
6. Identify and implement improvements in Employee Relations processes, policies, and tools.
7. Develop and facilitate training programs on employee relations and conflict resolution for employees and managers.
8. Investigate harassment, discrimination, retaliation, ethics violations, and other policy breaches by gathering evidence through interviews and document reviews.
9. Prepare comprehensive investigation reports with factual findings and actionable recommendations.
10. Maintain accurate and confidential records of investigative activities for effective case tracking.
11. Analyze case data to identify trends, inform policy updates, and create proactive strategies.
Education
Bachelor's degree in Human Resources or a related field and/ or five years of directly related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Work Experience
12. Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience Human Resources in a global organization
Additional Requirements
13. Fluent in English and German #LI-JJ1 #LI-HYBRID
Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
14. Exceptional strategic thinking, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
15. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate with senior leadership and legal counsel.
License and Certifications
Professional Certification in Human Resources preferred.
Travel Requirements
10%: Up to 26 business days per year
Physical Requirements
Sedentary-Exerting up to 10lbs/4kgs of force occasionally, and/or negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time.
What We Offer
This is a hybrid position requiring the team member to be onsite a minimum of 3 days per weekCommunity Involvement: West encourages volunteerism through its West without Borders initiative and other charitable programs that make a difference in local communities.Recognition & Rewards: Performance-based bonuses, service recognition, and employee appreciation initiatives celebrate dedication and impact.