Manager, Absence and Leaves

The Manager, Absence and Leaves is responsible for establishing policies and managing the employee leave programs to ensure compliance with relevant federal and provincial leave laws, and collective bargaining agreements. This role will be instrumental in streamlining processes and systems, and improving the employee experience. Reporting to the Director, Benefits and Retirement, the Manager role leads a team of specialists, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.

This role will be located at our head office in Markham Ontario. Extendicare offers a hybrid working environment.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Lead the administration and continuous improvement of leave of absence programs, including short- and long-term disability, parental leave, vacation and other leave types.

• Drive strategic enhancements to leave programs by leveraging data insights, employee and manager feedback, and process reviews to improve operational efficiency, ensure compliance and deliver an excellent employee experience.

• Serve as the subject matter expert on complex leave, accommodation, and time-off cases, advising HR business partners and ensuring alignment with internal policies and applicable legislation.

• Partner closely with vendors to stay informed of market trends, best practices and benchmark offerings to ensure the leave programs support the company’s overall total rewards strategy.

• Collaborate with cross functional partners, including the HRIS team and payroll, to ensure accurate data flow, system integration, and efficient resolution of issues related to leave administration.

• Provide leadership and coaching to a team of specialists, building bench strength and ownership attributes

• Manage conflicting priorities to deliver highest value initiatives that support key business objectives, while respecting organizational and team capacity

What we are looking for:

• Strong experience with managing leave programs, including disability, parental leave and vacation in Canada In depth knowledge of employee leave policies and time-off management

• Strong leadership in cross functional program management, including close partnership with HRIS, payroll and HR teams

• Experience working in a highly unionized environment is required

• Demonstrated leadership and influencing skills with the ability to complete projects on time

• Excellent interpersonal skills - a team player who can act as both a leader and an individual contributor, as required

• Confident and effective communication skills (written and verbal)

• Adaptable, comfortable with ambiguity, and able to quickly pivot when priorities change

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot issues

• Dedicated to providing an exceptional employee experience with a focus on educating employees through regular communication efforts

• Planning and organizational skills with proven ability to manage competing priorities with tight timelines

At Extendicare, we believe that working as a team creates an environment that allows us to reach our potential. We value each employee, encourage equal opportunity for growth and recognize achievement. As a valued member of our team, you can expect:

• Continuous mentorship, support for life-long learning and growth opportunities

• Opportunities for advancement and career growth within the organization

• A rewarding and meaningful work experience where you can enrich your life and the lives of others through your work.

• Employee Family Assistance Program.

• Robust benefits package

#extendicarehr

Time Type:

Extendicare and affiliated organizations including our partner homes in Extendicare Assist, accommodate the needs of job applicants throughout its recruitment and selection processes upon request.