The Labor Relations Manager provides support, counsel and guidance to the Site Management, First Line Managers, and the workforce with respect to the collective bargaining agreements and labor relations matters. This position leads the site labor relations team and is a part of the People and Culture (HR) function within SML NA. It is both a strategic and hands-on role that supports the operational objectives of the Byhalia Central Distribution Center and promotes a strong and effective working relationship with the UAW.
To be successful in this position, you are an effective leader with the ability to influence and inspire others. You demonstrate a strong courage to challenge and develop, have ability to set demanding targets while coaching individuals to deliver outside their comfort zones. You truly embrace our Company values of Customer Success, Trust, Passion, Change, and Performance. You live our leadership principles: to lead with passion, perform with purpose and transform with vision.
You will report to the Manager, Regional Employee and Labor Relations and will be located in Byhalia, MS. The Byhalia Central Distribution Center is a one million square foot facility located approximately 25 miles southeast of Memphis, TN and employs 550 employees with approximately 70 percent unionized.
Essential Functions
- Advise and coach people leaders on labor relations issues with a strong focus on collective bargaining Agreement (CBA) interpretation, administration, and labor legal compliance
- Work closely with union representation to maintain a strong and effective relationship
- Develop a comprehensive labor strategy to support the operational objectives of the site
- Act as the designated Company representative at Step 2 of the grievance procedure, and participate at various other levels
- Support contract negotiations by identifying issues, developing proposals, and building a business case to support the company’s position
- Ensure consistent administration and interpretation of the CBA, site work rules and Company policies
- Develop and implement process improvements related to Labor Relations
- Develop and deliver labor relations training to the management team, people leaders and HR partners
- Supervise a team of labor relations professionals and manage their career development
- Perform all other duties as assigned
- Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources, Labor/Industrial Relations, or a related field required; Advanced/graduate degree preferred
- Five (5) years’ experience Labor Relations required; preferably in a distribution/manufacturing environment
- Collective bargaining experience negotiating contracts and other agreements directly with the union
- Minimum 2 years of people leadership experience preferred
- HR certification (SHRM or HRCI) preferred
- Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced team environment striving towards operational excellence guided by Volvo’s Values and the Code of Conduct
- Demonstrated ability to drive change, set demanding targets and motivate teams and individuals to deliver outside of their comfort zones
Skills and Competencies
- As all documentation is in English, proficiency in the English language is required
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to network effectively across a diverse organization and build enduring relationships across functional and geographical areas
- Thorough knowledge of US employment and labor law as well as best professional practices
- Strong problem-solving, negotiating and conflict resolution skills, and the ability to be flexible and change directions when needed
- Ability to facilitate meetings with diverse groups, resolve conflicts and support resolution to a positive outcome
- Ability to work independently and make independent decisions, ensuring high levels of collaboration with stakeholders and subject matter experts
- Ability to work collaboratively with operational leadership and union officials at all levels within the organization
- Ability to contribute to continuous improvement efforts
- Detail oriented, analytical and interested in using data for insights
- Excellent computer skills (Microsoft Office 365)
- High degree of confidentiality, integrity and ethical standards
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
