Employee Relations Manager

Employee Relations ManagerReports to:Vice President of Human ResourcesLocation: Murray, Utah - Support Center (in office five days per week)Direct reports:Four Employee Relations SpecialistsAbout Sizzling PlatterSizzling Platter is a leading restaurant management group operating more than 800 locations across the United States and Mexico. Since 1963, we've built a franchise platform focused on scaling category-leading brands in high-opportunity markets. Our portfolio includes Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Sizzler Steakhouse, Dunkin', Wingstop, Little Caesars, Jersey Mike's Subs, Jamba, and Cinnabon.Our Support Center in Murray, Utah, serves a team of 14,000+ employees. We are focused on long-term growth through organic expansion, acquisitions, and brand development, backed by private equity partners who share our vision for performance and scale.Our mission: to provide unparalleled experiences for our team members, guests, and brands while driving strong financial performance and becoming the world's premier franchise growth platform.Role SummaryThe Employee Relations Manager leads our employee relations team and is the primary point of escalation for our most complex and sensitive cases, including matters involving senior and higher-level management. You will coach and develop a team of four Employee Relations Specialists, personally guide high-risk investigations and resolutions, and give the VP of HR clear, strategic insight on case trends, risk, and recommended action.You will serve primarily as the employee relations partner to our Support Center, advising leaders on conflict, performance, discipline, and separation decisions. You are an advocate for fair process and for employees, while protecting the interests of the company. You bring sound judgment, discretion, and the confidence to communicate difficult decisions directly and with care.Primary ResponsibilitiesLead the teamManage, coach, and develop four Employee Relations Specialists, setting priorities, assigning cases, and reviewing investigation quality and documentationServe as the escalation point for complex cases, and drive consistency in process, guidance, and outcomes across the teamBuild team capability through regular feedback, case consultation, and career developmentHandle our most complex casesOversee and personally lead investigations of harassment, discrimination, retaliation, and other workplace concerns, especially those involving higher levels of managementAssess severity and risk, determine appropriate resolution, and recommend corrective action, discipline, or termination in line with company policy and federal, state, and local lawPartner with the Legal Department and outside counsel on EEOC, agency, and other legal claimsAdvise company leadersProvide the VP of HR and operations leaders with strategic insight on employee relations cases, including risk exposure, patterns, and recommended actionAnalyze case data to spot trends, and deliver regular reporting and recommendations on root causes and preventionCoach managers and senior leaders on conflict resolution, performance management, and disciplinary decisionsCommunicate difficult decisions clearly, directly, and with empathy to leaders and team membersStrengthen our practicesMaintain current knowledge of employment law and legislation at federal, state, and local levels, and translate changes into practical guidanceKeep employee relations policies, investigation standards, and manager resources currentSkills and AbilitiesStrong working knowledge of federal and state employment law and regulations (Title VII, ADA, FMLA, FLSA, and DOL Wage & Hour)Demonstrated experience independently leading complex investigations, including those involving senior leaders, from intake through report and resolutionComfort delivering difficult decisions and tough messages clearly, calmly, and with empathySound judgment, impartiality, and the highest level of confidentiality and discretionExcellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to write clear investigation reportsQualifications5+ years of progressive Human Resources experience, including at least 3 years in employee relations or workplace investigations2+ years of experience leading or directly managing a teamBachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, or a related field, or equivalent experienceEmployee relations experience in California, including familiarity with California employment law, preferredPHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, or SHRM-SCP certification preferredHR experience in a multi-site restaurant, franchise, hospitality, or retail environment preferredBilingual in English and Spanish a plusWork Environment and BenefitsThis is an in-office role at our Support Center in Murray, Utah, five days per week. Working side by side with the HR team and the leaders you advise is central to how this role builds trust and moves quickly on sensitive matters.Sizzling Platter offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, short- and long-term disability, paid vacation, paid holidays, and a company-matching 401(k) program. #J-18808-Ljbffr Sizzling Platter, LLC