The Head Employee Relations manages the relationship with the trade unions, engaging them on partnership requirements and aligning them on any relevant, proposed changes with the aim to have a constructive working relationship, all parties being involved in, and committed to, the success of the organization. This entails informing and consulting the unions with relevant organizational changes, deescalating potential issues, preventing and managing conflicts, leading negotiations.
Manages both hierarchically and technically the Employee Relations team which will be responsible to develop, translate, amend and implements ER policies, products and services. Ensure NMB complies with the rules and regulations in the mentioned HR areas of expertise.
Main Responsibilities
- As part of the HR Leadership Team to develop, guard and implement the HR strategy at NMB.
- Lead the relationship and key negotiations with trade unions and other union representative forums as appropriate.
- Develop the strategy for Employee Relations in line with NMB’s strategy and ambitions, and comply with the legal framework.
- Implement the strategy by translating it to daily practice, directing the team on the actions for implementation
- Support the Head HR and other stakeholders in the area of Employee Relations based on the overall NMB strategy
- By networking stay abreast of legal and non-legal developments within and outside the organisation
- Hierarchically and functionally manage the Employee Relations Team, support the professional development of the team.
Attributes
- In-depth knowledge on labour laws and industrial relations practices
- Ability to create and implement employee relations interventions and employee engagements
- Thorough knowledge of fostering an organizational culture defined by impeccable integrity
- Expertise in the field of Employee Relations and sound experience in managing relationships with the trade unions.
- Relationship management at all levels within and outside NMB.
- Excellent decision making skills in a complex environment.
- Experience in strategy development and implementation.
- Patience and listening skills.
Qualifications and Experience
- Master's degree in Human Resource management, LLB, Business, Public Administration or closely related field.
- 15+ years' experience in human resource management, 5 years of which in a leadership role, leading an employee relations function within a unionized organization (1000+ staff).