Senior Manager, Employee Relations

Job Summary Otsuka Pharmaceutical Company is a global healthcare company with the corporate philosophy: “Otsuka‑people creating new products for better health worldwide.” Otsuka researches, develops, manufactures and markets innovative products, with a focus on pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products that meet unmet medical needs and support everyday health. This role supports Director and business leaders in investigating employee relations issues across the U.S. pharma business, assessing risk, navigating change, and building a sustainable ER organization. The Senior Manager works closely with the Employee Relations Committee (ERC), monitors the effect of business decisions on people, challenges the status quo, advises management, stays current on Federal and State laws, and helps formulate protective positions. The position is based in Princeton, New Jersey and follows Otsuka’s hybrid work policy. Job Description Work with Business Conduct investigations addressing issues such as harassment, discrimination, retaliation, workplace violence, and other violations of rules, regulations, policies, and procedures. Manage employee relations issues, participate in internal investigations, and provide recommendations for resolution. Partner with Ethics and Compliance on issues that affect the broader business and with Legal Affairs to address legal concerns and counsel HR leaders. Use effective interviewing and documentation techniques; utilize the designated online case‑management tool for tracking investigations. Report regularly on pending investigations and provide timely investigation reports with supporting documentation. Collaborate with the Director of Employee Relations and HR Business Partners to guide performance‑management processes, including coaching, counseling, and performance‑improvement plans. Help develop and reinforce an employee‑relations strategy and philosophy that provides clarity, reliable measurement and clear feedback. Identify long‑term impacts of case issues to provide a comprehensive risk view. Improve work relationships, amplify engagement, and increase productivity and retention through collaboration with management and employees. Demonstrate ability to manage multi‑business employee‑relations needs. Conduct training on compliance with policies and procedures with the HR Team. Build effective relationships with HR Business Partners and other HR Centers of Excellence (operations, total rewards, HRIS, talent management, talent acquisition, and DE&I) to share insights and advice. Qualifications / Required Knowledge & Experience Bachelor’s degree required; a degree in Business, Human Resources Management, or a related field preferred. Understanding of HR legal compliance requirements and HR programs that support business objectives. At least 5 years of substantive Employee Relations experience as a subject‑matter expert, with extensive investigation, performance‑management advising, and partnership with in‑house counsel. Demonstrated outcomes that have led to actionable and supportive plans. Preferred pharmaceutical, biotech, or healthcare industry experience. Strong interpersonal, writing, communication, organizational, project‑management, and presentation skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook). Required Skills & Abilities Thrives in a fast‑paced, high‑performance environment. Strong influencing, decision‑making, and resilience skills. Comfortable with ambiguity and complex strategy discussions. Strategic thinker experienced in executing complex, cross‑functional projects and programs. Compelling oral and written communicator who can build relationships with senior leaders and stakeholders to drive change. Objective coach for employees and management through challenging and emotional issues. Excellent planning, organization, time‑management, attention to detail, and ability to handle multiple tasks in a fast‑paced, time‑sensitive environment. Effective in managing multiple priorities in a changing environment through strong project‑management, systems knowledge and communication. Self‑starter with the ability to work independently and in a team to build a personal brand and network across the organization. Equal Opportunity Employer Otsuka is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will be given consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity or gender expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, national origin, veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected characteristic. If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation. #J-18808-Ljbffr