Manager, Labour Relations

Job Title: Manager, Labour Relations

Reports to: National Director, Employee and Labour Relations

Purpose of the Role

The Manager, Labour Relations will work collaboratively with Human Resources, People Leaders and Unions across LifeLabs to support the development and implementation of LifeLabs Employee and Labour Relations strategy and plan in Ontario. 

The Manager, Labour Relations is a subject matter expert and trusted advisor to business leaders and HR in the application, interpretation, and implementation of collective agreements across LifeLabs’ Ontario business.  As a critical part of the LifeLabs Employee and Labour Relations COE, the Manager Labour Relations is responsible for developing communication, learning, tools and guidelines for HR and People Leaders to support the overall Employee and Labour Relations strategy.  

This dynamic and high impact position is perfect for someone looking to be involved in all facets of labour relations including acting as lead negotiator.  It is an opportunity to strengthen collaboration, communication, influence, financial acumen and strategic thinking.  The role reports to the National Director, Employee and Labour Relations for LifeLabs.  

Core Accountabilities

• Contribute to the development and implementation of LifeLabs’ Labour Relations strategy for Ontario.
• Provide labour relations expertise and advice to business and human resources in addressing initiatives with possible LR impact; advise leaders on risks and provide strategic recommendations that apply business objectives and human resources best practices to address labour relations issues.
• SME for all Collective Agreements in Ontario ensuring understanding and consistent interpretation.
• Prepare and present reports summarizing developments in collective bargaining, changes in legislation, workforce initiatives, grievance and arbitration performance; identify trends, consider broad implications and potential risks across all parts of the workforce and make recommendations.
• Involved with the full cycle of the Collective Bargaining process including serving as Lead Negotiator for bargaining units in Ontario.
• Gather input and conduct analysis to collective bargaining mandates/proposed terms and work in partnership with Finance, Total Rewards and Human Resources to ensure that the collective agreement terms align with LifeLabs financial and human resources objectives and support the People strategy.
• Lead planning and implementation of Labour Councils and involve business leaders and HR appropriately.
• Develop and implement tracking of grievances, arbitrations and ER issues; proactively identify trends, implement metrics and develop and implement reporting and/or dashboards for senior leaders to inform, proactive program development and risk mitigation.
• Lead and develop a grievance management process ensuring alignment in approach and tactics and consistency across HR team. 
• Collaborate with the LifeLabs Talent Leader to design and implement initiatives that provide managers with the skills and tools necessary to effectively manage in a unionized environment, increase employee engagement, and develop resilience and adaptability.

Minimum Hiring Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Business, Human Resources or Industrial Relations.
• 7 or more years’ experience in a human resources role in a unionized environment with a minimum of 5 years leadership experience in labour relations in a complex unionized environment.
• Experience leading union negotiations, chairing grievance meetings, and preparing complex cases for arbitration.
• Solid knowledge of Human Resources policies and procedures, and employment-related legislation (Labour Relations Act, Pay Equity Act, Human Rights Code, Occupational Health and Safety Act, Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, Employment Standards Act, Hospital Labour Disputes Arbitration Act, etc.).
• Demonstrated ability to conduct data analysis (cost/benefit), interpret information, resolve complex issues and prepare recommendations and proposals that support business objectives
• Proven track record in building strong relationships with executives/senior leaders, with the ability to provide robust recommendations, coach, influence and drive change in pursuit of best practice.
• Understanding of change management principles and experience leading change efforts
• Strong problem identification and resolution skills.
• Excellent communication skills with strong ability to build executive summaries. 
• Excellent written/verbal communication, analytical, organizational and interpersonal skills. 
• Proficiency in critical thinking and problem solving.

What We Offer: Salary range: $94,400 – $120,400 CAD annually (commensurate with experience)