Manager, Labor Relations

Summary

Under the direction of the Director, Labor Relations, manages the activities and services of the Labor Relations staff; makes policy recommendations on Labor Relations matters; assists the Director in representing AHS in negotiations by serving as the first or second chair in labor negotiations; serves as Chief Advocate in arbitration hearings; reviews and compiles responses to Requests for Information from unions;

prepares presentations and memoranda for senior leadership; assists in resolution processes and maintains relationships with employee organizations; and, in consultation with the Director, Labor Relations Consultants, and HR Business Partners, provides technical advice to management and employees regarding laws and agreements affecting employment conditions.

DUTIES & ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Coordinates the timely and accurate production of labor relations statistics, issues, and cases, ensuring necessary reporting to hospital leadership. Reviews statistics quarterly to identify trends or issues requiring action.
• Supervises Labor Relations Consultants, contractors, and administrative staff, assigning tasks, providing guidance, and evaluating performance.
• Coordinates cases with legal counsel as needed, modifying responses and advising stakeholders to achieve hospital objectives while minimizing risks.
• Manages multiple contracts, interprets collective bargaining agreements, and represents management in grievance negotiations and settlements. Advises supervisors on grievance procedures and coordinates hearing processes.
• Provides training on labor relations matters.
• Offers guidance to employees and managers on employee relations, dispute resolution, disciplinary actions, and collective bargaining agreements. Assists with policy interpretation and mediates with employees and union representatives.
• Conducts formal leader training on labor relations to ensure management readiness.
• Leads union-management contract negotiations, developing strategies and communication plans post-ratification.
• Develops and presents negotiation strategies considering broader organizational factors and trains management on agreement impacts.
• Coordinates with negotiating teams, departments, and other stakeholders during negotiations.
• Stays updated on labor laws, court decisions, and trends affecting the sector.
• Prepares documents and spreadsheets supporting labor relations functions, including logs and costing analyses.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education
:
Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from an accredited institution;
Juris Doctorate preferred. Alternatively, four years of progressively responsible labor relations experience, including at-the-table negotiations as first chair, may substitute for the degree.

Required Experience
:
Six years of experience in an employee or labor relations environment.

Preferred Experience
:
Two years in a supervisory role.