Labor Relations Manager

Location: Providence, Rhode Island (Hybrid - 3 days onsite, non-negotiable) Base Salary: $120,000 - $187,000 (dependent on experience) Bonus: 15% Short-Term Incentive Overview Our client - a leading energy and utilities provider supporting gas and electric operations across the region, is seeking an experienced Labor Relations Manager to join their HR leadership team. Following a recent acquisition, the organization is entering a new phase of transformation. While supported by a larger enterprise, this role functions in a start-up-style environment , requiring a hands-on Labor Relations professional who can build structure, credibility, and long-term union partnerships. This is a labor-driven, individual-contributor role with no direct reports. The successful candidate will work closely with 3 business partners and report directly to the Director of HR , acting as the organization’s subject‑matter expert across labor relations. Key Responsibilities Lead and execute labor relations strategy aligned with operational and business objectives. Serve as the primary lead for collective bargaining , including preparation, strategy development, and acting as chief spokesperson during negotiations. Contract Negotiation is a highly desired skill Manage multiple collective bargaining agreements across gas and electric operations and maintain close working relationships with two unions . Rebuild and strengthen labor-management relationships where formal contract engagement has been limited for several years. Provide expert guidance on contract interpretation , grievance resolution, and arbitration processes. Partner closely with internal legal counsel on arbitrations, negotiations, and NLRB-related matters. Act as company spokesperson in mediation or arbitration proceedings when required. Collaborate with field operations leadership to ensure labor strategies support safety, reliability, and operational performance. Design and implement labor relations structure, processes, and governance within the HR function. Advise managers and supervisors on union engagement, labor strategy, and day-to-day labor matters. Support labor relations during emergency or system events, which may require after-hours involvement. Required Qualifications 5+ years of dedicated Labor Relations experience in a unionized environment. Proven collective bargaining and contract negotiation experience (non-negotiable). Demonstrated hands-on experience managing grievances, arbitration, and union relationships . Background in a labor-intensive, industrial environment (manufacturing, utilities, or similarly unionized sectors) is a large requirement for this role. Experience with contract negotiation is a must have Strong working knowledge of employment law, labor agreements, and labor relations best practices. Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder-management skills. Preferred Qualifications JD and/or SPHR certification. Experience building or re-establishing labor relations programs in post-acquisition or evolving organizations. Featured benefits #J-18808-Ljbffr Smart4 Energy