AVP, HR Industrial Relations | Kuala Lumpur, MY

United Overseas Bank; Kuala Lumpur; On-site; MYR 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading bank in Asia as an AVP for HR Industrial Relations in Kuala Lumpur. You will oversee employee relations, develop policies, and ensure compliance with Malaysian labor laws. This role offers a dynamic and supportive environment focused on career growth and team synergy.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 to 8 years of experience in HR or related fields.
• Experience in Industrial Relations, Employee Relations, and Union Relations.

Responsibilities

• Manage and resolve complex employee relations issues.
• Develop and implement employee relations policies and procedures.
• Collaborate with HR colleagues to ensure a cohesive employee experience.

Skills

Conflict Resolution

Negotiation Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Communication Skills

Stakeholder Management

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Law, Human Resources, or Business Administration

Job description

AVP, HR Industrial Relations

Posting Date: 15 Jun 2025

Location:
Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan

Company: UOB Innovation Hub 2 Sdn. Bhd.

About UOB

United Overseas Bank Limited (UOB) is a leading bank in Asia with a global network of around 500 offices in 19 countries and territories in Asia Pacific, Europe and North America. UOB's purpose is to build the future of ASEAN. Our purpose guides The UOB Way - that defines our unique culture and belief system, anchored on our values of being Honourable, Enterprising, United and Committed, and our people philosophy of Care, Growth and Trust.

About the Department

UOB Innovation Hub 2 (InnoHub2) is a UOB-wholly owned subsidiary and a Centre of Excellence based in Malaysia, providing Group Business Services (GBS) to support the UOB Group. Started in 2021 with technology application design, development and support, InnoHub2 is expanding beyond technology services to deliver other business services to support the Bank's growth ambition. We are looking for talented and motivated individuals to be part of the pioneer team spearheading the development and delivery of the new services.

As part of the InnoHub2 team, you will have the opportunity to work on Group initiatives and gain regional business exposure. We are dynamic, passionate and purposeful about delivering trusted financial solutions that enable business growth. An exciting career progression with varied opportunities awaits you at IH2. Come grow your career with us.

Job Responsibilities

This position manages and resolves complex employee relations issues, provides guidance on policies, collaborates with legal counsel, engages with employees and other related bodies like MEF, and conducts training on employment laws. Monitors trends, collaborates with HR for a cohesive experience, and supports diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives to foster a positive, inclusive workplace.

• Investigate, manage, and resolve complex employee relations issues, including performance management, disciplinary inquiries and actions, workplace conflicts, and harassment or discrimination allegations.
• Provide guidance and coaching to leaders and managers on employee relations matters, ensuring consistency and fairness in the application of policies and procedures.
• Develop, implement, and maintain employee relations policies, procedures, handbooks and guidelines in compliance with employment laws and best practices.
• Partner with legal counsel as needed to address employment-related legal issues and minimize risk to UOB IH2.
• Regularly engage and collaborate with employee representative bodies including different employee groups within UOB IH2 like Taskforce members.
• Conduct regular learning and development sessions for leaders and managers on employment laws and employee relations topics, including misconduct in employment, performance intervention, conflict resolution, fostering a positive work environment, and promoting team synergy.
• Monitor and analyze employee relations trends, identifying potential areas of concern and developing proactive strategies to address them.
• Collaborate with HR colleagues in areas such as operations, talent acquisition, rewards and performance management, learning and development, culture and engagement, and business partners to ensure a cohesive employee experience.
• Assist with the development and implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives to foster a more inclusive and supportive work environment that encourages team synergy and positive energy.
• Ensure compliance with corporate policies, governmental regulations and laws. Keep abreast of legislative changes to limit legal exposure and liability.
• Review and verify cases reported to HR involving misconduct/employment issues and liaise with respective departments and subsidiaries for investigation.
• Prepare investigation reports for management evaluation.
• Draft disciplinary correspondence, prosecute Domestic Inquiries, and provide internal consultation on disciplinary actions against employees.
• Investigate and escalate staff grievances to appropriate channels.
• Provide counseling to employees on work-related problems.
• Represent the Company in industrial disputes at the Industrial/Labour Court and attend to labour or IR cases when necessary.
• Establish good relationships with industry players, legal practitioners, and government/non-governmental agencies.
• Ensure adherence to employment-related legislation, HR policies, and good practices to minimize business risk.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Law, Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 to 8 years of experience in employee relations, law, HR, or related fields, with at least 3 years in Industrial Relations, Employee Relations, and Union Relations, preferably in banking or GBS environment.
• In-depth knowledge of Malaysian employment laws and regulations.
• Strong conflict resolution and negotiation skills, with the ability to handle sensitive and confidential situations effectively.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills to establish rapport and build trust at all levels.
• Proven ability to promote a positive work environment, encourage team synergy, and foster open communication.
• Experience in developing and implementing employee relations policies and procedures.
• Experience with foreign workers is highly advantageous.
• Deep understanding of Employment Act and related legislation.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in Bahasa Malaysia and English.
• Strong stakeholder management skills.

Be a part of UOB Family

UOB is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on age, race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or other non-merit factors. All employment decisions are based on business needs and qualifications. Please inform us if you require accommodations during the recruitment process.

Apply now and make a difference.