Human Resources Business Partner (Contract)

St. Clement's School; Whitby; Hybrid; CAD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The Durham District School Board (DDSB) is seeking an experienced HR Business Partner to provide strategic HR advice to leadership across an assigned client portfolio. The role focuses on employee relations, attendance and performance management, and navigating collective agreements and employment legislation in a large, multi-union environment.

Responsibilities include conducting fair investigations, supporting HR programs, and guiding leaders through change while upholding equity and

Qualifications

• Minimum of five years of progressive HR experience in a large, multi-union environment.
• Experience conducting formal workplace investigations.
• Experience interpreting multiple collective agreements and employment laws.
• Experience contributing to HR policy, program development, change management, and strategic planning.
• Experience in educational settings is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic coaching to leaders on complex workforce matters, including attendance, performance management, organizational changes, and conflict.
• Interpret and apply collective agreements, policies, procedures, and employment legislation within a multi-union environment.
• Plan and conduct fair, objective workplace fact-finding investigations; gather evidence, interview parties, evaluate accounts, and prepare reports and recommendations.
• Build collaborative relationships with portfolio leaders to understand priorities and support equitable decision-making.
• Contribute to HR programs, policies, and continuous improvement initiatives in alignment with board priorities.
• Participate in formal labour-management activities, including grievances and collective bargaining.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Strategic advising

Employee relations

Investigative skills

Communication skills

Confidentiality

Anti-oppression

Coaching & mediation

Time management

Interpersonal skills

Education

Post-secondary education in HR/IR/BA or related field

CHRL designation (asset)

Tools

Microsoft Office 365

HRIS platforms

Job description

Position Type: 15-Month Contract

The Durham District School Board acknowledges that many Indigenous Nations have longstanding relationships, both historic and modern, with the territories upon which our school board and schools are located. Today, this area is home to many Indigenous peoples from across Turtle Island. We acknowledge that the Durham Region forms a part of the traditional and treaty territory of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, the Mississauga Peoples and the treaty territory of the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation. It is on these ancestral and treaty lands that we teach, live and learn.

This statement was co-created in partnership with the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation and the Chippewas of Georgina Island.

Position Summary

Reporting to the Manager of Employee Relations and working in partnership with leaders across an assigned client portfolio, the HR Business Partner provides strategic and operational human resources advice and practical solutions on a broad range of complex workplace matters. Grounded in DDSB's commitment to equity, anti-oppression, and accessibility, this role builds trusted partnerships with leadership to navigate employee relations, performance and attendance management, conflict resolution, and the interpretation of collective agreements and employment legislation. A key focus of this role involves leading fair, objective workplace fact-finding and investigation processes, as well as contributing to continuous HR improvement initiatives that align with board-wide student and community priorities.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic advice and coaching to leaders on complex workforce matters, including attendance and performance management, organizational changes, workplace conflict, and accommodation.
• Interpret and apply collective agreements, organizational policies, procedures, and relevant employment legislation (e.g., ESA, OHSA, Ontario Human Rights Code, Labour Relations Act) within a multi-union environment.
• Plan and conduct fair, objective, and thorough workplace fact-finding processes and investigations into workplace complaints or concerns; gather evidence, interview relevant parties, evaluate competing accounts, and prepare clear, well-supported reports and recommendations.
• Build collaborative, trusted relationships with portfolio leaders to understand operational priorities, mitigate people-related risks, and support effective, equitable decision-making.
• Contribute to the design, delivery, and implementation of HR programs, policies, continuous process improvements, and strategic People & Culture initiatives.
• Participate as required in formal labour-management activities, including grievances, arbitrations, and collective bargaining processes.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

• Post-secondary education in Human Resources, Industrial Relations, Business Administration, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressive Human Resources experience, including demonstrated experience providing strategic consultation within a large, complex, multi-union public or broader public sector environment.
• Demonstrated experience conducting formal workplace fact-finding and investigations.
• Proven experience interpreting and applying multiple collective agreements and employment laws.
• Experience contributing to HR policy and program development, change management, and strategic planning.
• Experience working in an educational or academic setting is considered an asset.

Qualifications and Skills

• Deep knowledge of contemporary human resources practices, human rights, and applicable Ontario employment legislation (ESA, OHSA, WSIA, Labour Relations Act, Ontario Human Rights Code).
• Exceptional analytical, critical-thinking, and investigative skills, with sound judgment in evaluating evidence and formulating objective recommendations.
• Superior oral and written communication skills, with demonstrated experience preparing clear, comprehensive investigation reports and delivering presentations.
• Strong interpersonal, consulting, and relationship-building skills, with the ability to maintain confidentiality, discretion, and trust across all organizational levels.
• Demonstrated commitment to anti-oppression, accessibility, equity, and inclusion in human resources practices.
• High-level coaching, mediation, facilitation, and conflict-resolution capabilities.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills to balance competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL) designation is considered an asset.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365 and HRIS platforms.

Additional Requirements

• Provide a current Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) screening upon hire.

Equity and Inclusion

The Durham District School Board recognizes Indigenous rights are distinct. In the exercise of those rights, Indigenous staff and students shall not be subjected to actions with the aim or effect of depriving these distinct rights.

The DDSB is dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. We are committed to reflecting the diverse communities we serve and encourage applications from candidates who bring a variety of experiences and backgrounds. We adhere to fair, transparent hiring practices and are committed to equity and accessibility throughout the recruitment process. If you need accommodation during the application process, please let us know, and we will work with you to meet your needs.

Ignite Your Career

At the Durham District School Board (DDSB), we inspire the lives of over 80,000 students. Our diverse communities are places where your impact will be felt every day.

Picture yourself in a workplace where your ideas are celebrated, and your growth is a top priority. Here, collaboration and innovation thrive. Whether you're directly inspiring young minds or providing essential support behind the scenes, your contributions will have a meaningful impact on students and the community.

We welcome you to bring your experiences, your passions, and your talents to our inclusive community. Join us and be part of a team that values your well-being as much as your contributions. Ignite your potential at DDSB and help us make a difference, one student at a time.

#DDSBISHIRING