Interim Manager Labor Relations

The Interim Manager of Labor Relations is a hands-on leader responsible for day-to-day labor relations activities within a unionized organization. This role works closely with business leaders, HR partners, employee representatives, and the broader workforce to support consistent, fair, and compliant labor relations practices.

The position requires an experienced labor relations professional who can manage complex employee and union matters, exercise sound judgment, and maintain strong working relationships while upholding contractual and regulatory requirements. This is an active, operationally aligned role rather than a purely advisory position.

The Interim Manager of Labor Relations serves as the primary point of contact for labor relations matters and plays a direct role in grievance handling, investigations, and dispute resolution. Experience working in unionized environments is required; experience across a variety of union structures is preferred.

• Maintain regular engagement with business operations and people leaders
• Serve as a trusted labor relations resource for managers and supervisors
• Address labor relations issues as they arise, including attendance, discipline, contract interpretation, and work rule questions
• Build credibility through responsiveness, consistency, and follow-through
• Train and coach leaders on labor relations fundamentals and effective union interactions
• Support managers in conducting employee conversations and administering discipline appropriately
• Promote consistent application of policies and collective bargaining agreements across the organization
• Monitor labor and employment law developments and support compliance efforts

• Interpret and administer collective bargaining agreements
• Manage grievance processes through all stages, including arbitration when required
• Advise leaders on contract application and compliance considerations
• Maintain accurate documentation and tracking of labor relations matters

• 5+ years of progressive experience in labor relations or HR within a unionized environment
• Demonstrated experience supporting collective bargaining and ongoing contract administration
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Labor/Industrial Relations, Business Administration, or a related field required
• Prior experience in an operational or employee-facing leadership role is a plus
• Strong working knowledge of labor law, collective bargaining, and employee relations
• Solid business acumen with the ability to align people practices with organizational objectives