Employee Relations Manager - 3 Month Contract
Job Description
Our client in North Vancvouver is seeking an experienced Employee Relations Manager to lead the development, coordination, and implementation of effective labour and employee relations strategies, along with standardized processes and practices.
This role supports a marine transportation-focused division and works closely with internal teams and stakeholders to align with broader strategic goals. Key responsibilities include guiding grievance resolution, overseeing contract administration, supporting policy development, and contributing to HR reporting and compliance efforts.
Responsibilities:
Contribute to the development of senior management’s approach to labour and employee relations, including participation in collective bargaining.
Lead the administration of labour and employee relations within assigned business units.
Advise and support all levels of leadership on matters such as contract interpretation, performance management, discipline, grievance handling, and attendance management.
Act as the company’s representative in labour matters, serving as Chief Spokesperson in negotiations, mediations, arbitrations, grievances, and related proceedings.
Conduct thorough investigations into employee-related issues and coordinate with legal counsel when necessary.
Ensure compliance with employment laws and regulations by staying current on relevant legal and policy developments.
Conduct research and assist with communication planning to support bargaining strategies.
Provide labour relations support across other business units as needed.
Drive continuous improvement in administrative processes by identifying automation opportunities, streamlining workflows, and aligning resources to high-impact activities.
Develop and implement practical tools, processes, and roadmaps to support people leaders and reinforce the role of Labour Relations within the organization.
Foster strong, solution-focused relationships with union representatives through consistent communication and professional engagement.
Requirements
5–7 years of progressive experience in labour relations within a complex, unionized, and multi-jurisdictional organization.
Proven track record leading collective bargaining negotiations, including contract development, implementation, arbitration, and mediation.
Direct experience serving as a spokesperson in collective bargaining settings.
Strong understanding of both federal and provincial labour legislation, employment standards, regulatory frameworks, and arbitral jurisprudence.
Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust and credibility across all levels of the organization—including union representatives and members.
Demonstrated strength in proactive problem-solving and innovative dispute resolution.
Ability to foster strong employee-employer relationships within a unionized environment.
Skilled in collective bargaining and negotiation strategy.
Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, evolving environment with competing priorities and occasional resistance to change.
Proficient in Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Highly organized with strong multitasking and prioritization abilities.
Self-directed while also being an effective team collaborator.
Please submit all resumes to Amy Hawksworth at Hawksworth@catchrecruitment.com