Sr Associate Relations Specialist

Role Description

At Staples, our people are at the center of everything we do. The Associate Relations (AR) team is a critical Center of Excellence (COE) dedicated to fostering a fair, respectful, and inclusive workplace. We partner closely with leaders and associates to deliver a consistent, positive employee experience while protecting the integrity, reputation, and assets of the company. You’ll join a collaborative and purpose-driven team committed to doing what’s right—for our associates, customers, and communities.

As a Sr. Associate Relations Specialist, you will serve as a trusted advisor and subject matter expert, managing complex employee relations matters across US Retail, including Home Office, Stores, Distribution Centers, Print Facilities, and remote teams. This role requires strong judgment, investigative expertise, and the ability to balance associate advocacy with business and legal considerations.

What You’ll Do

• Serve as an expert on associate relations matters including:
  • Harassment, discrimination, and workplace conduct concerns
  • A broad spectrum of critical incidents and workplace violence
• Recommend progressive discipline and terminations
• Participate in team calibration discussions to ensure consistent advice is delivered
• Lead thorough impartial investigations in partnership with HR, Legal, Loss Prevention, and Risk Management
• Provide consistent, compliant guidance to leaders through calibration and consultation
• Manage a high-volume caseload, ensuring cases are prioritized, documented, and resolved in a timely manner
• Facilitate resolution of complex associate and leader concerns, acting as a neutral and trusted resource
• Analyze trends across cases to identify risks and drive process improvements and HR initiatives
• Develop clear, detailed documentation and communications aligned with company standards and legal requirements

How You'll Make an Impact

• Mitigate organizational risk through proactive and compliant case management
• Drive fair and consistent outcomes across the business
• Strengthen associate engagement and trust through responsive and thoughtful issue resolution
• Contribute to continuous improvement within the Associate Relations function

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in Employee Relations, including investigations
• Broad HR knowledge across core functions
• Strong interpersonal and influencing skills; ability to navigate difficult conversations
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Proven ability to work cross-functionally with HR and business leaders
• Strong investigative, documentation, and case management skills
• Highly organized with the ability to manage confidential and sensitive information
• Self-directed with a strong sense of urgency and accountability
• Ability to work independently in a remote environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in HR, Organizational Psychology, Business, Legal Studies, or related field (preferred)
• Deep knowledge of EEO regulations and federal/state employment laws (preferred)
• Strong project and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities (preferred)
• PHR/SPHR certification (preferred)

Benefits

• Bonus plan and generous amount of paid time off, including one Floating Holiday each year
• Flexible work arrangements, including flexible work hours
• 401(k) plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance with many more optional benefits
• Associate store discount and more perks (discounts on mobile plans, movie tickets, etc.)
• Inclusive culture with associate-led Business Resource Groups
• Physical and Mental Health Wellness programs, and more!