Strategic Labor Relations Manager – Public Sector

City of Richmond, Virginia; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Richmond, Virginia is seeking a Labor Relations Manager to lead negotiations, contract administration, grievances, and labor-management relations for five bargaining units.

Reporting to the Deputy Director of Human Resources, the role emphasizes analysis of workforce data, compliance with statutes, and delivering reports to leadership.

A strong candidate will have 5–7 years in labor or HR within a unionized setting, and proficiency in Excel and data analysis.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree is required with relevant field of study.
• Master’s degree is preferred.
• Professional certifications such as PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP/SCP are desirable.
• Experience in a unionized environment is preferred.
• Strong written, verbal, and presentation skills is essential.
• Proficiency in Excel and data analysis tools is required.

Responsibilities

• Support preparation for and participation in negotiations with five bargaining units.
• Conduct financial and operational impact analyses of union proposals.
• Develop costing models, scenario analyses, and benchmarking reports.
• Draft memoranda of understanding, side letters, and contract language.
• Interpret collective bargaining agreements and advise departments on compliance.
• Investigate grievances and represent the City in grievance meetings.
• Assist with arbitration preparation and coordinate with legal counsel.
• Support labor-management committees and liaise with City leadership and unions.
• Monitor compliance with Virginia collective bargaining statutes and labor laws.
• Analyze workforce data, including overtime, leave usage, discipline trends, and compensation impacts.
• Develop reports and presentations for City leadership and elected officials.

Skills

Labor relations

Employee relations

Public-sector knowledge

Analytical skills

Written communication

Microsoft Excel

Education

Bachelor’s degree in HR / Public Administration / Labor Relations / Business Admin

Master’s degree in Public Administration / Labor Relations

Tools

Costing models

Workforce analytics software

Job description

The City of Richmond, Virginia is seeking a Labor Relations Manager to lead negotiations, contract administration, grievances, and labor-management relations for five bargaining units.

Reporting to the Deputy Director of Human Resources, the role emphasizes analysis of workforce data, compliance with statutes, and delivering reports to leadership.

A strong candidate will have 5–7 years in labor or HR within a unionized setting, and proficiency in Excel and data analysis.