The Sr Manager, Retail Human Resources is the strategic business partner to the Regional Vice President(s) providing thought leadership, guidance, and support at all levels within the regional organization on all HR/people related matters. The Sr. HRM is responsible for the regional people strategy and provides comprehensive support across the employee life cycle in areas such as: policy interpretation, succession planning, talent development, diversity and inclusion, organizational effectiveness, and compliance. As a key business partner to the Retail Leadership Team, this role will create and/or execute human resources initiatives and plays a vital role in guiding employee relations, staffing, recruitment, and workforce planning as an integral part of the Retail HR Team. The Sr. Manager, Retail Human Resources is a multi-state and multi-unit regional generalist role reporting to the Director, Retail HR. This is a remote role, however, preferred candidates will be located in the greater St Louis or Minneapolis/St Paul markets.

Responsibilities:

• The primary advisor and thought partner to regional leadership providing guidance and direction on people and organizational matters.
• Lead and support the design, development, prioritization, and execution of the regional people strategy by identifying solutions with a high-level of independence and collaborating with regional partners.
• Diagnose human resources needs and problems to recommend solutions and to deliver high quality programs that result in the organization’s improved performance and retention. Identify succession planning gaps and drive a culture of development for café managers and future market leaders.
• Provide guidance to leaders in the use and application of Human Resources policies and practices in recruitment, employee relations, compensation, development, and compliance.
• Make recommendations on best practices, develop, and drive human resource and training initiatives to facilitate positive employee relations and HR education among leaders.
• Develop an in-depth understanding of the retail business within Panera to ensure that HR programs add value to the business.
• Strong working knowledge and experience with applying, interpreting, and ensuring compliance with state, local and federal employment laws.
• Consult with line managers and employees on issues and problems to ensure that Panera’s Values are the guide, that employees are fairly and equitably treated, to ensure legal guidelines are followed, and to create an employer-of-choice environment.
• This role works from a home office; travel is up to 50%.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, equivalent degree or equivalent related experience.
• Knowledge and experience in employment law, practices and controlling governmental agencies (e.g. EEO, ADA, FMLA, DOL, OSHA, etc.)
• 5-7 years generalist Human Resources experience required in retail or the hospitality industry
• Independent professional capable of forming relationships with diverse groups of people.
• Intermediate knowledge of HR disciplines (staffing, performance management, compensation/benefits/rewards and employee relations) including legal implications and requirements.

• Outstanding ability to effectively coach Multi-Unit Managers on performance management & management employee relations while maintaining positive working relationships.
• Outstanding interpersonal skills and experience writing communications.
• Proven ability to handle confidential information and provide necessary follow-up.
• Ability to work in fast paced environment while balancing multiple priorities.
• PHR certification preferred.
• Multi-unit, multi-state experience preferred.
• High energy, flexible, willing to travel 50%.