Employee Relations Director

The Employee Relations Director leads the organization’s employee relations function, overseeing day-to-day operations while driving a proactive and strategic approach to employee engagement, compliance, and workplace culture. This leader provides guidance, coaching, and oversight to ensure consistent application of policies and practices aligned with employment laws and company values. The Director develops, implements, and continuously improves programs, policies, and processes that support a positive, fair, and legally compliant workplace.

The role also serves as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, Human Resources Business Partners (HRBPs), and managers, helping to mitigate risk, resolve complex workplace issues, and enhance the overall employee experience.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The following summarizes key responsibilities of this position. Additional duties may be assigned as needed.

• Lead and manage the design, development, and implementation of employee relations strategies, programs, and policies that foster a positive workplace culture and ensure legal compliance.
• Serve as a senior advisor and liaison to HR Business Partners and leadership on complex employee relations issues, including disciplinary actions, workplace disputes, and grievance resolution.
• Conduct and oversee impartial fact-finding investigations; review documentation and recommend appropriate outcomes or corrective actions.
• Provide interpretation and guidance on HR policies, employment regulations, and compliance requirements to ensure consistent application across all departments.
• Coach and counsel managers on performance management, discipline, conflict resolution, and investigations.
• Partner with Legal and Compliance teams and/or outside counsel to manage employment law-related matters and ensure proper handling of claims, charges, and litigation.
• Oversee responses to employee complaints received through internal hotlines, ensuring timely and fair resolution and identifying systemic trends.
• Collaborate with Compliance and Learning & Development teams to deliver required or targeted compliance and employee relations training.
• Monitor and analyze employee relations data and trends to inform proactive strategies and leadership decision-making.
• Review and maintain employee policies and the employee handbook to ensure compliance with changing laws and evolving workplace practices.
• Represent the organization in employment-related proceedings, including responses to EEOC charges, audits, and related matters.
• Ensure consistency in separation processes and documentation; oversee RIF and severance activities in collaboration with HR Business Partners.
• Continuously assess HR and ER processes for effectiveness, efficiency, and risk mitigation, recommending and implementing improvements.
• Stay informed of legislative and regulatory developments affecting employment practices and proactively recommend policy or procedural changes.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree (JD, MBA, or related field) preferred.
• Minimum 8 years of progressive experience in Human Resources.
• Minimum 5 years of direct experience managing Employee Relations programs or investigations.
• Minimum 3 years HR experience with an insurance brokerage or underwriting specialty insurance distributor.
• Experience in a multi-state or complex organizational environment preferred.

Certifications

• HR certification (PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, or SHRM-SCP) preferred.

Core Competencies and Skills

• Proven ability to balance pragmatic business solutions with the highest ethical and compliance standards.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; ability to interpret data to identify trends and guide strategic action.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills with executive-level presentation capability.
• Advanced conflict resolution, mediation, and negotiation skills with a record of successful outcomes.
• Deep knowledge of employment laws and regulations (FMLA, ADA, FLSA, Title VII, EEOC, etc.).
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Consultative, relationship-building, and influencing skills across all organizational levels.
• Commitment to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace.

General Description of Available Benefits for Eligible Employees of CRC Group: At CRC Group, we're committed to supporting every aspect of teammates' well-being – physical, emotional, financial, social, and professional. Our best-in-class benefits program is designed to care for the whole you, offering a wide range of coverage and support. Eligible full-time teammates enjoy access to medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and AD&D insurance; tax-advantaged savings accounts; and a 401(k) plan with company match. CRC Group also offers generous paid time off programs, including company holidays, vacation and sick days, new parent leave, and more. Eligible positions may also qualify for restricted stock units and/or a deferred compensation plan.

CRC Group supports a diverse workforce and is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate against individuals on the basis of race, gender, color, religion, citizenship or national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status or other classification protected by law. CRC Group is a Drug Free Workplace.