Director of Employer Relations

Exciting Human Resources opportunity for a client located in the western suburbs. We are searching for a strategic and hands-on Director of Employee Relations. This individual will manage employee relations programs, oversee a team of HR Managers, and act as a key driver of employee engagement, performance, and compliance. Responsible for HR systems oversight related to employee relations data, serving as the point person for HRIS functionality, metrics reporting, and dashboard development. The position reports to the CHRO. The ideal candidate is a skilled facilitator and analytical thinker with deep knowledge of HR best practices and employment law.

This is a hybrid position, working 4 days remote and 1 day in person requiring some light travel. Client offers benefits including medical, dental, vision, 401k, and PTO. Salary target $145,000-$150,000 plus bonus.

Recruiter: Connie Stathopoulos

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the escalation point for complex and high-risk employee relations issues involving employees across multiple states.
• Conduct and oversee thorough, compliant investigations; partner with Legal and Compliance teams on EEOC claims, audits, and other legal matters.
• Ensure consistency in performance and disciplinary actions; support the development of scalable ER policies and procedures.
• Stay current on employment laws and ensure policies and practices are compliant across all jurisdictions.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of regional HR Managers supporting employee relations and field HR operations.
• Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning within the HR team.
• Oversee performance management programs tailored for an hourly workforce,
• Lead the design and implementation of rewards and recognition initiatives that drive engagement and retention.
• Serve as the point person for HRIS (UKG, Workforce Ready) as it relates to employee relations data and processes.
• Own the creation, maintenance, and distribution of HR dashboards and reports
• Analyze data to identify trends and recommend proactive solutions to improve workforce experience and reduce risk.
• Drive process improvement initiatives within the employee relations function to improve efficiency, consistency, and compliance.
• Lead and manage special projects related to workforce experience, HR strategy, or compliance initiatives.

Education and Work Experience Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field required;
• Master’s degree or HR certification (SHRM-SCP, SPHR) preferred
• 7 years of progressive HR experience, with a focus on employee relations and hourly workforce support
• 3 years of experience leading HR teams or managing HR professionals
• Strong knowledge of employment laws and regulations in a multi-state environment.
• Proven experience managing and resolving complex employee relations issues with discretion and legal accuracy.
• Proficiency with HRIS platforms (e.g., UKG, ADP), including reporting, workflows, and dashboard development
• Strong analytical skills; ability to interpret HR metrics and use data to influence decisions.
• Experience managing vendor relationships related to employee relations or HR operations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, facilitation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Willingness and ability to travel up to 15% as needed.

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