Senior Manager, Employee Relations

Senior Manager, Employee Relations

As a trusted advisor to Xeris employees, the Senior Manager provides expert guidance on complex employee relations matters, driving a fair, compliant, high‑performance workplace culture within a regulated biopharmaceutical environment.

• Partner with HR Centers of Excellence, Legal, Compliance, and Business leaders to proactively identify organizational risks and resolve workplace issues.
• Coach leaders on all aspects of performance management, including formal coaching letters, corrective actions, difficult conversations, and documentation.
• Lead complex workplace investigations involving allegations of misconduct, harassment, discrimination, and policy violations; coordinate with Legal and Compliance on high‑risk matters.
• Advise on involuntary terminations, ensuring compliance with employment laws and internal policies; manage terminations within Workday and conduct exit interviews.
• Analyze exit data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement.
• Design and deliver manager training on employment law and other relevant modules.
• Create tools, resources, and guidance that strengthen manager capability and promote consistency across the organization.

• Bachelor’s degree (advanced degree preferred).
• 7+ years of progressive HR Business Partner or Employee Relations experience.
• Experience in a pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, or similarly regulated organization.
• Demonstrated knowledge of U.S. employment law and HR best practices.
• Track record of leading complex investigations and advising senior leaders on high‑risk matters.
• Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local employment laws.
• Excellent computer skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint;
  Workday knowledge preferred.
• Strong interpersonal, judgement, critical thinking, conflict‑resolution, and influencing skills.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to identify trends and recommend business‑focused solutions.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• SHRM, SPHR, or equivalent HR certification.
• Experience in a highly regulated life‑sciences environment.

• Strategic thinking, Business acumen, Influencing without authority, Sound judgment, Emotional intelligence, Conflict resolution, Collaboration, Integrity and confidentiality.

This is a hybrid position based in Xeris’ Chicago office. A minimum of three business days per week on site is required, with possible adjustments at management’s discretion. Occasional overnight travel and air travel may be required.

Estimated annual salary range: $155,750 – $213,600. Additional compensation may include annual bonus, long‑term incentive awards, and a comprehensive benefits package that covers health, vision, dental insurance, 401(k) retirement benefits, paid time off, and more.

Xeris Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetics, or any other characteristic protected by law. Employment decisions are based solely on job‑related factors.