Associate Relations Manager

Role Description

The Associate/Employee Relations Manager provides advice and consultation to support Bon Secours Mercy Health Toledo market positive associate relations strategy, including but not limited to:

• Investigation of associate open door concerns
• Consultation with cross-functional partners to bring resolution to associates’ questions/concerns in a timely manner
• Interpretation of company policies for management
• Assisting management to address associate performance issues
• Counseling management regarding their responsibilities
• Supporting compliance efforts and coaching on changes in relevant laws/regulations
• Interpreting and applying relevant collective bargaining agreement provisions in union environments

Essential Job Functions:

• Assumes lead investigative role as part of the Associate Relations Center of Excellence when issues are complex and/or high-level risk
• Investigates issues by establishing investigation plan, assembling all relevant facts, interviewing case critical witnesses, reviewing similar cases, using knowledge, judgment and experience to determine course of action
• Handles complex and emotionally charged issues with composure by addressing the situation objectively, remaining unbiased
• Responsible for disciplinary action and/or termination disputes through the grievance procedure and/or disputes through Ministry policy administration
• Collaborate with multiple stakeholders with differing points of view while maintaining confidentiality of complex and highly sensitive subject matter
• Make recommendations for policy changes or enhancements based on experience with prior situations; identify unproductive internal processes and recommend improvements
• Prepare thorough and detailed response with necessary exhibits to EEOC or state-based equal employment opportunity commission
• Assist with execution of labor relations functions, including, but not limited to, participation in grievance responses, arbitration and collective bargaining processes and labor management meetings, as appropriate
• Assist managers with diagnosing and resolving issues through proper questioning and risk assessment and the application of HR knowledge, including relevant policies, procedures, collective bargaining agreements and applicable law, to provide consultation that reduces the risk to the Ministry and builds a positive work environment for the associates
• Interprets and applies applicable labor and employment laws, regulations and standards at the federal and state level, in consultation with the legal department
• Identifies risk and potential company liability in case fact patterns and uses sound judgment in obtaining legal counsel when warranted

Qualifications

• Required Minimum Education: 4 year/Bachelors Degree in Human Resources
• Preferred Education: Graduate Degree (Masters) in Human Resources
• Licensure/Certification Preferred: SPHR
• Minimum Years and Type of Experience: 5-7 years’ experience in Human Resources (HR), including recent employee relations investigations experience
• Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:
  • Excellent customer service, communications and interpersonal skills
  • Excellent listening skills and ability to probe based upon responses provided
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills including the ability to organize and present information in a clear and concise way
  • Ability to build rapport and communicate challenging information effectively
  • Skilled at interviewing employees, witnesses and supervisors to gather relevant case information, preparing detailed documentation and maintaining files in preparation for potential future claims
  • Reasoning ability that includes strong problem solving and conflict resolution skills required
  • Ability to maintain highly confidential information
  • Regular, dependable attendance and punctuality
  • Knowledge of Federal and State Employment Law
• Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Preferred:
  • 5+ years’ experience in Employee and Labor Relations; or related field
  • 3+ years of related Human Resources experience; or proven record of business management experience

Benefits

• Competitive pay, incentives, referral bonuses and 403(b) with employer contributions (when eligible)
• Medical, dental, vision, prescription coverage, HSA/FSA options, life insurance, mental health resources and discounts
• Paid time off, parental and FMLA leave, short- and long-term disability, backup care for children and elders
• Tuition assistance, professional development and continuing education support
• Benefits may vary based on the market and employment status