Strategic People & Labor Relations Lead

City of Vancouver; Vancouver (WA); Hybrid; USD 121,000 - 182,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Vancouver is seeking a seasoned People and Labor Strategy Manager to lead labor relations and strategic HR initiatives. You will direct a team of HR business partners, oversee labor contract negotiations and advise city leaders on policies, workforce planning, and organizational change.

This full-time, hybrid role requires strong negotiation skills, strategic thinking, and a commitment to equity and inclusion while guiding complex bargaining and HR service transformation.

Qualifications

• At least five years' labor and employee relations and supervisory experience.
• Experience leading negotiations and interest-based bargaining.
• Experience managing diverse groups and resolving conflicts.
• Bachelor's degree in HR or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Ability to supervise HR professionals and lead a team.

Responsibilities

• Lead labor relations strategies and bargaining for union contracts.
• Advise managers on sensitive labor matters and policies.
• Transition HR services to proactive, strategic model with BPs.
• Mentor HR Business Partner team for effectiveness.
• Collaborate with City leadership to align with Strategic Plan.
• Serve as strategic advisor on workforce trends and change management.

Skills

Labor relations

Employee relations

Strategic leadership

Negotiation

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in HR or related field

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

PowerPoint

HRIS

Job description

The City of Vancouver is seeking a seasoned People and Labor Strategy Manager to lead labor relations and strategic HR initiatives. You will direct a team of HR business partners, oversee labor contract negotiations and advise city leaders on policies, workforce planning, and organizational change.

This full-time, hybrid role requires strong negotiation skills, strategic thinking, and a commitment to equity and inclusion while guiding complex bargaining and HR service transformation.