Labor Relations Manager jobs in Rhode Island

Fully remote role with 50% travel throughout the USA, except California and Washington

Looking for someone who lives in the Central or East Regions of the USA

Purpose:

This Labor Relations Manager will assist the Sr. Director & Associate General Counsel in supporting all aspects of labor relations for UNFI’s unionized operations. This includes labor contract negotiations, employee benefits, labor contract administration and dispute resolution, including multiemployer benefit pension plan and health plan obligations as part of a team of labor relations and associate relations professionals. You will serve as a co-lead negotiator for company in a wide range of labor negotiations. Handles grievances and arbitrations, under the supervision of the Sr. Director & AGC. You will advise business units and makes recommendations regarding policies to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws related to labor relations and employee benefits. As directed by the Sr. Director & AGC, you will coordinate the communication of legal counsel and guidance to officers and management regarding contract negotiations, employee benefits, changes in laws and regulations, business planning and dispute resolution concerning unionized associates.

Job Responsibilities:

• Serves as content expert on all matters arising under labor contracts and advises business partners on all issues arising under labor contracts, labor law, multiemployer benefit plans and other issues involving unionized associates
• Build and maintain ongoing, long-term relationships between negotiating parties; advocate and champion a productive management/ union working environment.
• Manage the grievance process as needed by investigating the claims, reviewing relevant documentation and participate in the grievance process, including union grievance meetings and arbitration proceedings, on behalf of the company.
• Manages and serves as a negotiator during labor relations contract negotiations, including drafting proposals and facilitating meetings with union representatives.
• Maintains knowledge and understanding of laws and regulations relating to human resources, collective bargaining, unions, and labor relations.
• Performs other relevant job duties as required.

Job Requirements:

Education/ Certifications/or Equivalent combination of education training and experience:

• Bachelor’s degree required, with prior experience in labor relations or human resources in a unionized environment required
• Law degree preferred
• SHRM-SCP preferred

Experience:

• Prior working experience in distribution or warehouse settings a plus
• Must have significant demonstrated experience managing union relationships, negotiating labor agreements and/or union dispute resolution experience

Knowledge/ Skills/ Abilities:

• Bilingual (Spanish/English) strongly preferred
• Ability to handle sensitive information and confer with colleagues at all levels of the organization
• Excellent time management skills with the proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Thorough understanding of laws, regulations and guidelines relating to human resources and labor relations.
• Possess ability to work in cooperation with others to achieve desired results

Physical Environment/Demands:

• 50% travel throughout the USA, except California and Washington
• Most work is performed in a temperature-controlled office environment; may be exposed to warehouse and transportation environments.
• Incumbent may sit for long periods of time at desk or computer terminal
• Incumbent may use calculators, keyboards, telephone, and other office equipment during normal workday
• Stooping, bending, twisting, and reaching may be required in completion of job duties

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. UNFI is an Equal Opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive and respectful environment for all. - M/F/Veteran/Disability. VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

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