Associate Relations Partner

Responsible for consulting on associate relations matters across the MLH system, fostering a healthy work environment, resolving conflicts, ensuring policy compliance, and providing guidance on performance management and grievance processes. What you will do Advise associates and leaders regarding performance management, accountability, corrective action, performance improvement plans, grievance procedures, and other associate relations matters. Interpret policies and counsel on responsibilities and rights of MLH associates; proactively identify, manage, and aid equitable resolution of job-related complaints and concerns. Conduct effective, thorough, and objective investigations ensuring due process; summarize conclusions and recommend actions consistent with MLH practices and legal compliance. Document decisions in best practices to reduce risk in associate relations situations. Engage in the interactive process with Associates and leaders to review requests for accommodation for leave, disability, and Workers Compensation issues and ensure guidelines are administered appropriately. Ensure efficient and effective resolution of associate complaints, workplace conflicts, and other associate relations matters. Apply leading practice associate relations concepts, policies, and procedures to promote a positive associate experience. Develop, maintain, and deliver effective communications to managers and associates; identify and recommend strategies to address current and future associate relations needs. Assist in preparation of required documents for unemployment claims, conflict resolution claims, federal and state agency claims, and employment‑related litigation. Maintain accurate and timely case documentation by recording findings in the case management system. Facilitate training to associates and leaders on HR policies and compliance matters. Partner in measuring, assessing, and improving effectiveness and efficiency of associate relations services. Assist with internal audits of associate relations issues and make recommendations to resolve issues per policies and procedures. Recommend changes to policies and practices in response to regulatory, environmental changes, and HR advancements. Partner with HR Business Partners to understand business direction based on current MLH policies and procedures. Education / Formal Training Requirements Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources (Required) Work Experience Requirements Human Resources, 1-3 years (Required) Alternatively, a High school diploma or equivalent with 6–7 years of Human Resources experience, or 5–7 years if substituting for Bachelor's degree (Preferred) Licenses and Certifications Requirements Senior Professional Human Resources Certification – HR Certification Institute (Preferred) Certified Professional – Society for Human Resource Management (Preferred) Senior Certified Professional – Society for Human Resource Management (Preferred) Professional Human Resources Certification – HR Certification Institute (Preferred) Certified in Healthcare Human Resources – American Society for Healthcare Human Resources Administration (Preferred) Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Excellent interpersonal skills, with emphasis on listening and clear communication. Analytical problem‑solving ability to find viable solutions. Strong verbal and written communication skills across all levels. Ability to influence stakeholders and demonstrate leadership in challenging situations. Knowledge of governmental rules and regulations affecting associate/employer relationships; experience in conflict resolution. Knowledge of Title VII, FMLA, FLSA, ADEA, ADA, OWBPA, USERRA, etc. Broad knowledge in employee relations principles, practices, and procedures for moderately difficult assignments. Strong technical knowledge. Solid knowledge of laws, regulations, and best practices related to Human Resources. Strong research, analysis, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills. Ability to maintain confidentiality. Ability to set priorities, coordinate multiple tasks, and maintain workflow control. Decision-making guided by policies, practices, procedures, and business plan. Supervision Provided by this Position No supervisory or lead responsibilities are assigned to this position. Physical Demands May include climbing, pushing, standing, hearing, walking, reaching, grasping, kneeling, stooping, and repetitive motion. Requires good balance and coordination. Exertion up to 25 lbs occasionally or 10 lbs frequently. Requires close visual acuity for data analysis, transcription, computer use, and extensive reading. Typically performed under conditions found in general office or administrative work; no substantial exposure to adverse environmental conditions. #J-18808-Ljbffr