Senior Employee Relations Specialist

It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing! We are committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business. Dare to bring your unique perspective? At Novogradac, we value individuals who bring unique perspectives and bold ideas. If you’re eager to contribute to an inclusive, innovative environment where your personal and professional growth is encouraged and supported, we invite you to explore this exciting opportunity with us. Position Summary The Senior Employee Relations Specialist manages a variety of responsibilities within the employee relations function of the human resources department, including handling employee relations and performance management cases, with increased independence, ownership, and complexity. The role includes performance management cases, facilitating the semi-annual performance review process, leaves and accommodations, and exit interview process. The position may flex into other functional areas of HR to provide assistance and/or back-up support. The firm has one available position in multiple locations; some positions may be open to remote or hybrid work arrangements. Responsibilities Research and resolve a variety of complex employee relations and performance management issues/concerns for designated positions, with minimal direction from Assistant Director of Human Resources. Recommend course of action from coaching to formal discipline to termination decisions. Draft employee relations meeting notes, performance improvement plans, disciplinary actions, and other types of communication/documentation for employee relations cases. Track and follow up on employee relations cases until the case is resolved and closed. Provide data-driven employee relations insights to identify emerging trends, mitigate risk, and support the development of proactive ER strategies. Conduct intake of employee concerns received by email, phone or via the company’s case management system. Coach leaders on effective communication techniques for employee issues. Assist with internal investigations in response to concerns or complaints and recommend appropriate actions. Act as witness or note-taker for employee relations cases being managed by the Assistant Director of HR. Facilitate the semi-annual Performance Review process for designated office(s) or client groups, including assisting with system set-up, supporting leaders in developing content/message, as well as conducting HR review and approval of feedback. Conduct exit interviews and oversee process; assist in monthly tracking of turnover data. Collaborate and provide backup support for managing requests for employee accommodations (ADA), including facilitating the interactive process between employee and manager, requesting clarification as needed, as well as reviewing supporting documentation and identifying/recommending appropriate and reasonable accommodations, as necessary. Assist in developing and presenting employee and management development training courses. Assist with Human Resources projects and collaborate with employees within HR and across other departments to support business needs. Provide back-up support to the HR department for coverage or other special projects as needed. Complete other job duties as assigned. Qualifications Experience working in a multi-state organization. Prior experience working in a professional services firm. HRCI/SHRM certification is desirable. Bachelor’s degree in related area plus a minimum of 8 years of experience directly managing employee relations cases. HR Generalist and/or HRBP experience would be considered in lieu of specialized roles. Ability to lead by example and lead with a positive and collaborative approach. Ability to mentor and grow staff in functions of the employee relations area. Display strong analytical skills, including the ability to gather information, conduct analyses, present findings, identify trends, translate findings, and create solutions. Must have superior skills in writing/documentation, assessing employee relations situations, take a coaching/collaborative approach, and recommend appropriate actions. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, in particular the ability to analyze and interpret complex HR policies and law and translate them clearly to staff at all levels of the organization. Demonstrated knowledge of federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, with the ability to assess risk and recommend compliant, practical solutions. Ability to conduct or lead complex employee relations investigations, including interviewing, evidence analysis, credibility assessments, and preparation of clear, defensible documentation and findings. Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment in complex or sensitive employee relations matters and to independently recommend appropriate resolutions. Ability to effectively consult with and influence leaders at all levels, providing clear guidance on employee relations matters, performance management, and appropriate corrective action. Ability to support organizational change initiatives by anticipating employee relations impacts and advising leaders on communication, risk, and employee concerns. Complete work accurately with strong attention to detail. Ability to develop rapport with a variety of personalities, maintain a calm and professional demeanor during stressful situations, and effectively defuse escalated personnel situations. Ability to effectively prioritize a fast-paced and varied workload, effectively manage a variety of concurrent and shifting priorities. Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive work-related information. Strong computer skills, including solid skill in the Microsoft Office suite (prefer advanced skill in Excel) and familiarity with a variety of HR software programs (Paychex Flex and Workday, preferred). Able to work evenings and weekends based on position needs. Why work with us? Novogradac is committed to fostering a welcoming workplace where all employees feel valued and empowered to grow. We believe in offering a supportive, balanced work environment that encourages professional growth and work-life integration. Benefits & Compensation Increased number of paid holidays per year Competitive salaries with continuous review of market conditions Flexible working hours and work arrangements Remote and hybrid opportunities Inclusive workplace, providing strong professional growth and development opportunities Strong growth opportunities Competitive benefits package 401(k) package with firm profit-sharing Discretionary annual bonuses for eligible positions & CPA bonus plan Strong emphasis on quality work-life integration Dress for your day policy Resources of a national firm Opportunities to engage with our active Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), affinity groups, and advance your career within a supportive, inclusive environment Compensation: $104,000 - $141,000 depending on experience. More is possible if experience dictates. Application Process To be considered for this position, interested candidates MUST apply via our company website: Commitment to Inclusion Novogradac is committed to ensuring a fair and inclusive recruitment process, making reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities or special needs throughout the application process. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to apply, as we believe that unique perspectives strengthen our ability to achieve excellence. At Novogradac, we offer a variety of Employee Resource Groups and Affinity Groups to provide all employees with opportunities to connect, collaborate, and support one another in the workplace. Novogradac & Company LLP offers a progressive work environment, competitive pay and an excellent benefits package including medical, dental, vision, paid time off, life/disability insurance, commuter flex accounts and a 401(k). Novogradac and Company LLP is an equal opportunity employer. Novogradac’s culture is centered on education, acceptance, innovation and opportunity. We value diversity and respect the different perspectives that each of our employees bring to Novogradac no matter their age, race, religion, gender identity or sexual orientation. We are committed to creating an equitable and inclusive workplace for our entire workforce. By submitting an application with us, you are providing Novogradac with personal information. More information on how we use your personal information may be found in our Privacy Notice at Collection. #J-18808-Ljbffr Novogradac