Employee Relations Specialist

The Employee Relations Specialist supports a positive, compliant, and inclusive workplace by partnering with leaders and employees across corporate, retail, and restaurant teams. We are specifically seeking someone with strong experience conducting workplace investigations and advising managers on employee relations and performance matters. This role manages complex employee relations issues, conducts investigations, and provides guidance to ensure fair and consistent application of policies aligned with company values and employment laws. The Specialist plays a key role in fostering a respectful and engaging work environment that reflects the Tommy Bahama culture. Employee Relations and Investigations Manage employee relations issues, including investigations, interviews, documentation, and resolution, ensuring fairness, confidentiality, and compliance with policy and law. Conduct an average of 100+ investigations annually across a workforce of 3,000+ employees in the U.S. and Canada. Respond promptly to HR/Fraud hotline calls and complete follow-ups or investigations within defined timelines. Oversee unemployment claims, appeals, subpoenas, and disputes. Coaching and Partner Support Provide coaching and guidance to managers and employees on performance, conduct, and policy interpretation. Partner with regional retail and restaurant leaders to address performance management, corrective actions, and workplace concerns. Support leaders in fostering accountability and a positive workplace culture. Policy and Compliance Management Maintain and update HR policies, handbooks, and workplace conduct materials; assist in annual handbook revisions and communication. Monitor compliance with state and federal regulations, including sexual harassment prevention training and posting requirements. Manage unemployment claims, appeals, subpoenas, and employment verification requests. Training and Education Facilitate and/or support employee relations and employment law training sessions, ensuring managers and employees are informed on key topics. Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) for Employee Relations in leadership and development programs. Track and maintain training records as required by law. Collaboration and Strategic Support Partner with the Director of Employee Relations and HR leadership to align employee relations strategies with organizational goals. Participate in company-wide initiatives to promote engagement, accountability, and inclusion. Essentials for Life in Paradise Generally, 3 to 5 years of HR generalist experience. Multi-state experience preferred with preference given to candidates with experience in California, NY, Hawaii, Washington, and Oregon. Bilingual (Spanish) highly desired. Proven ability to manage sensitive and complex investigations with discretion. Strong understanding of HR laws and employment practices. Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and problem‑solving skills. Ability to travel occasionally and work flexible hours as needed. High integrity, professionalism, and ability to thrive in a fast‑paced environment. Rate Range: $85,000.00 to $110,000.00 Annually Tommy Bahama is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against qualified applicants based on race, color, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, religious creed, sexual orientation, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, age, military and veteran status, marital status, physical or mental disability, protected medical condition, genetic information, reproductive health decision‑making or any other characteristic protected by law. Tommy Bahama participates in E‑Verify. Details in English and Spanish. Right to Work Statement in English and Spanish. #J-18808-Ljbffr