Sr. Director, Labor Relations

Dairy Farmers of America; Kansas City (KS); On-site; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Dairy Farmers of America is looking for a Labor Relations Director in Kansas City. This role involves directing labor relations programs, negotiating collective bargaining agreements, and ensuring compliance with labor laws. You will also provide guidance to senior management on labor-related issues.

Qualified candidates should have at least 12 years of experience in labor relations or human resources, and a degree in Human Resources or a related field is preferred. Travel may be required up to two weeks per month.

Qualifications

• 12 or more years of labor relations or human resources experience.
• Must have a willingness to travel 2+ weeks per month.
• JD preferred, along with PHR or SPHR certification.

Responsibilities

• Direct and oversee labor relations programs and negotiate contracts.
• Mediating conflicts between management and employees or unions.
• Develop training programs on labor relations for managers.

Skills

Leadership skills

Strategic negotiations

Human Resources practices

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Education

Undergraduate degree in Human Resources or related field

12+ years of labor relations experience

PHR or SPHR certification preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Direct and oversee labor relations programs, policies, and procedures. Establish and maintain positive and productive labor-management relations, negotiate contracts, interpret collective bargaining agreements, and administer grievance procedures and arbitrations. Provide guidance on labor-related issues to senior management. Ensure compliance with labor laws and federal and state regulations.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Contribute to the development of and implement comprehensive labor and employee relations. Formulate and recommend program goals and objectives in all areas of labor relations
• Monitor labor market trends, legislative changes, and industry best practices to inform strategy development and opportunities for improvement
• Lead negotiations for collective bargaining agreements with labor unions
• Develop negotiation strategies, prepare proposals, and ensure effective communication throughout the negotiation process
• Mediate conflicts between management and employees or unions to maintain positive labor relations
• Investigate, address, and resolve labor disputes, grievances, employee appeals, and disciplinary actions in a timely and fair manner
• Recommend problem resolution to management and employees in both union and non-union environments
• Identify and mitigate labor-related risks. Establish and implement work standards, policies, and procedures
• Partner with business leaders to develop and implement key change management actions to improve employee and business performance
• Ensure compliance with all relevant labor laws, regulations, and collective bargaining agreements
• Build and maintain positive relationships with labor unions, employee representatives, and other stakeholders
• Work closely with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), EEOC and other regulatory agencies in resolving claims filed against the organization
• Provide expert advice and guidance on labor relations matters to senior management and HR teams
• Develop and deliver training programs on labor relations topics for managers and supervisors
• Prepare and present reports on labor relations activities, outcomes, and metrics to senior leadership
• Oversee the labor relations team in developing labor strategies and negotiating union contracts
• Plan, coordinate, and direct the work of staff engaged in various labor relations activities
• Advise management on best practices for handling employee and labor relations issues
• The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned as required

Education and Experience

• Undergraduate degree in Human Resources, Industrial Relations, or related curriculum (or equivalent combination of experience and education); JD preferred
• 12 or more years of labor relations, human resources, or related experience
• Certification and/or License - PHR or SPHR certification preferred

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Must be willing to travel 2+ weeks per month
• Knowledge of and skill with Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems
• Considerable knowledge of Human Resources practices, labor laws, and regulations; management-labor relations; and collective bargaining agreements
• Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to lead, manage, and develop deep talent expertise
• Able to translate complex theoretical and deliver practical and relevant solutions
• Able to develop assessment instruments to assist in monitoring compliance standards
• Able to maintain confidentiality of information and identity and handle priority or sensitive issues with discretion
• Able to investigate and analyze information and provide solutions
• Able to foster collaboration and promote a positive mindset and approach
• Able to respond courteously and efficiently to inquiries, complaints, and requests
• Able to provide effective and tactful communication skills with all levels of the organization
• Skill in analytical thinking and problem solving
• Skill in critical thinking with strong time-management, organization, multi-tasking, and prioritization
• Skill in strategic negotiations
• Must be able to read, write and speak English

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans