The Organisation
Think Talent is excited to partner with a renowned international private company that significantly contributes to the Australian manufacturing landscape by distributing a diverse portfolio of well-known brands globally. Committed to innovation, this company re-invests in enhancing manufacturing capabilities and prioritises regional employment, where most of its factories are located. Join them in shaping their continued success!
The Opportunity
This Employee Relations Manager role is a 12-month ‘fixed term contract’ with a view to go permanent. Emphasis will be on supporting line managers and internal partners within the business in resolving employee / industrial relations matters, balancing advocacy for both while mitigating organisational risk. As the main employee relations contact for a cross-functional group, the role builds trust, ensures policy compliance, and focuses on key business imperatives, fair treatment, and coaching managers on performance and policy complexities.
Key Responsibilities include:
* Issue Resolution: Proactively manage and resolve employee relations issues escalated from key cohorts or client groups, ensuring timely and effective solutions.
* Coaching and Partnering: Provide best practice coaching and collaborate with line managers across a wide range of performance management processes to enhance team effectiveness.
* Legal and Union Collaboration: Work closely with legal counsel in navigating legal proceedings and maintaining clear communication with unions.
* Investigation and Documentation: Conduct thorough employee relations investigations, documenting findings meticulously and offering actionable recommendations.
* Enterprise Agreement Negotiations: Lead strategic negotiations for Enterprise Agreements, aiming to achieve beneficial outcomes for all parties involved.
* Advisory Support: Serve as a trusted advisor to internal partners, and line managers on employee relations matters and strategies for improvement.
* Policy Development: Create and refine policies to promote consistency, effectiveness, and capability across the organisation.
* Training and Capability Building: Facilitate relevant training programs to empower stakeholders with the skills needed for effective employee relations management.
* Trend Monitoring and Action Planning: Analyse employee relations trends, providing insights on absence management and performance enhancement initiatives.
* Travel Requirements: Be prepared to travel as needed, including overnight trips, to support the role's objectives.
To Be Successful
Ideal candidates will demonstrate a strong track record in guiding employee/ industrial relations inquiries, leading fair investigations, and driving the implementation of effective recommendations. You’ll have successfully managed union interactions, represented organisations in agency meetings, and resolved conflicts alongside stakeholders. Your commitment to compliance and accurate documentation will be evident, as well as your proactive approach to monitoring legal requirements, recommending improvements, and staying current on best practices in labour relations.
Key capabilities required include:
* 5+ years in HR / Labour Relations with a focus on employee / industrial relations within site-based FMCG or Supply Chain organisations of size and complexity.
* Strong communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills.
* In-depth knowledge of employment and labour laws, union relations, and Enterprise Agreement negotiations with exposure to manufacturing and sales cohorts.
* Proven ability to mobilise resources, mitigate risks, and maintain confidentiality.
* Strong analytical, problem-solving, and conflict management skills.
* Capable of working independently, prioritising tasks, and managing multiple projects effectively.
* University degree (preferably in HR, Labor / Industrial Relations, or Law) or equivalent experience.
The Benefits
Join a values-driven organisation where you can help shape a positive culture and enhance the employee experience while contributing to a future-ready workforce within an inspiring team environment.
Embrace a healthy work-life balance with hybrid options available in Wodonga (preferred) or Melbourne, and be part of a renowned brand with a strong market presence.
On offer is an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive base salary, superannuation, and performance-based bonus incentives, for a candidate who embodies our purpose and brings the right expertise.
For immediate consideration, click "apply now" or reach out to Jason Hunwick at Think Talent on 0400 005 602 for a confidential discussion.