Associate Relations Manager [Italy]

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If interested, please submit your CV in English.

Role Overview

This role sits within the MVH Europe People & Organisation function and operates across veterinary and support services within a complex, multi‑site and unionised environment. The Associate Relations Manager plays a critical role in balancing associate advocacy with operational, legal, and commercial priorities, ensuring decisions align with Mars values and local regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Coach P&O Business Partners and people managers on associate relations practices, conflict management, policy application, and ethical decision making.
• Design and deliver training sessions, workshops, and practical tools to improve consistency and confidence in handling people issues.
• Promote an associate first mindset supported by strong emotional intelligence and professionalism.

Policy, Compliance & Insights

• Maintain expert knowledge of Italian labour law, union obligations, and regulatory requirements, ensuring ongoing compliance.
• Partner with Legal and Risk teams to update policies and frameworks in response to regulatory or business changes.
• Track external labour relations and regulatory developments to drive proactive prevention and continuous improvement.

Stakeholder Collaboration

• Build trusted relationships with managers, associates, senior leaders, Legal, Compensation, and external agencies.
• Collaborate across Mars Veterinary Health banners and global teams to share best practices and ensure alignment.
• Represent the Operating Unit in external discussions with regulatory or government bodies when required.

Summary of the Role

• Job Title: Associate Relations Manager
• Department: People & Organization
• Reports to: Director, Associate Relations
• Location: Milan, Italy
• Contract: Full time
• Languages: Italian and English (additional European languages advantageous)

Education & Professional Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Law, or related discipline preferred.
• Relevant certifications in employee relations, labour law, or P&O management are advantageous.

Experience

• Minimum 5+ years of experience in associate relations and/or labour relations within a complex, regulated, or unionised environment.
• Proven experience managing complex investigations and sensitive employee relations matters.
• Strong knowledge of Italian employment law, collective agreements, compliance frameworks, and case documentation standards.
• Demonstrated ability to coach leaders and influence outcomes with professionalism and integrity.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including facilitation of training and difficult conversations.
• High emotional intelligence, resilience, and sound judgement under pressure.
• Experience analysing trends and data to identify systemic issues and improvement opportunities.
• Experience with Workday or other P&O information systems is an advantage.
• Fluency in Italian and English is required.

Key Competencies

• Employee Relations & Conflict Resolution
• Leadership & Coaching
• Legal & Regulatory Compliance
• Investigation & Analytical Thinking
• Communication & Stakeholder Management
• Process Improvement & Strategic Thinking

Interested?

Please contact Lekya Kanamarlapudi, Group Corporate Recruitment Partner who is happy to tell you more about this opportunity and the recruitment process. Or apply by submitting your resume through the apply button below.

MVHE is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds.