I. General Summary

The Director of Employee and Labor Relations oversees all aspects of employee and labor relations to promote a positive ER culture within the business.

II. Principal Responsibilities and Tasks

The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. These are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by personnel so classified.

1. Manages and directs the HR Business Partners and/or other HR roles, including providing guidance to the HRBPs on their recommendations to resolve employee relations issues. May function as the HRBP by providing direct recommendations on difficult or complex issues.

2. Reviews and approves responses to internal and external complaints, charges, and audit requests such as Compliance, Risk, EEOC, OSHA, NLRB, etc., and represents and defends the facility’s position and interests. Partners with internal and external legal counsel as appropriate.

3. Analyzes employee relations trends, identifies root causes, and implements appropriate and creative resolutions. Monitors HRBP recommendations for employee action to ensure the consistency and to ensure fair and timely application of facility policies and procedures.

4. Identifies need and opportunity for HRBP development and facilitates the necessary training.

5. Partners with the VP of HR to identify and develop leader training such as compliance with regulatory requirements, changes in employment law, application of policies/procedures, etc. Directs the review/investigative efforts of HRBPs by guiding process to ensure due process, due diligence, and positive efforts in the process, including interviewing complainants, witnesses, and subject matter experts. Coordinates and facilitates referrals to other system groups and functions such as Compliance, Legal, Risk, Safety, Security, and Employee Health. Prepares documentation, recommendation, and proposals for final review and approval.

The University of Maryland Medical System is a 14-hospital system with academic, community and specialty medical services reaching every part of Maryland and beyond. UMMS is a national and regional referral center for trauma, cancer care, Neurocare, cardiac care, women’s and children’s health and physical rehabilitation. UMMS is the fourth largest private employer in the Baltimore metropolitan area and one of the top 20 employers in the state of Maryland. No organization will give you the clinical variety, the support, or the opportunities for professional growth that you’ll enjoy as a member of our team. 

III. Education and Experience

1. Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university required. A Master’s or Advanced Degree in related field preferred. Professional certification as PHR or SPHR through SHRM preferred.

2. 8 years of experience consulting on complex HR-related matters with emphasis on employee and labor relations, leading ELR related initiatives/programs, and supervisory/management experience is required.

3. Experience in union negotiations preferred.

IV. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

1. Advanced skill and knowledge in areas of employment/labor relations, regulations and laws (state & Federal). Familiarity with other HR disciplines, such as compensation, benefits, and recruitment.

2. Skilled in conflict resolution, consulting, negotiation, communication, interpersonal skills, organizational, and analytical techniques and approaches. Strong ability and skill in moving flexibly among various approaches in response to changing situations and circumstances

3. Experienced level skill in applying state and federal employment laws such as FMLA, ADA, ADEA, FLSA, NLRB, Title VII, OSHA, and NLRA to workplace issues

4. Experienced in employment law, with particular emphasis on advising employers as clients.

5. Demonstrated ability to manage sensitive and confidential situations in a professional and dignified manner and skill in maintaining composure and professionalism under difficult circumstances

6. Ability to independently identify the appropriate sources for the correct answers to problems

7. Skilled in balancing results with relationships in pursuing outcomes aligned with organizational business objectives

8. Ability to coach, develop, and mentor staff and to lead teams in producing outcomes aligned with organizational business strategy and objectives

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.