Director, Labor Relations

Overview

As REI enters a pivotal new phase in its labor journey, we are building the next generation of our Labor Relations operating model. The Director of Labor Relations plays a critical role in this evolution—leading strategy, building capability, and establishing the foundation for long-term success

This role is responsible for helping design and stand up a scalable labor relations model - one that balances strong governance, proactive partnership, and operational excellence while remaining deeply aligned to REI’s values and business priorities.

This is a highly visible leadership role for a labor relations expert who thrives in complexity, brings strategic foresight, and is energized by building something new.

• Partner closely with the Divisional Vice President of Labor Relations to develop and execute enterprise labor strategy, including bargaining strategy, stakeholder alignment, and post-contract implementation.
• Lead the design and execution of future bargaining strategies, including successor collective bargaining agreement negotiations, informed by internal and external stakeholders.
• Use data, insights, and labor trends to proactively identify risk and recommend strategic course corrections.

• Directly lead and develop a team of Labor Relations Partners, ensuring strong performance, consistent practices, and alignment to labor strategy.
• Provide strategic guidance and consultation to LR Partners, HR, and operational leaders on labor relations matters.
• Build the infrastructure, governance models, and ways of working needed to scale the function as the organization grows.

• Serve as the lead advisor for contract administration across multiple bargaining units.
• Interpret and administer CBAs to ensure consistent, compliant, and equitable application across locations.
• Establish scalable governance, education, and centralized support models for certified locations.

• Partner with HR, Legal, and the Labor Relations to mitigate risk and support operational needs.
• Collaborate with Legal on complex labor matters, including grievances, arbitrations, and demand letters.

• Advise on labor relations training for leaders and HR teams, including CBA administration, policy enforcement, and positive workplace culture.
• Serve as a mediator and problem solver on complex labor and employment issues.
• Prepare reports and presentations for senior leaders and the Board of Directors on labor initiatives and external labor trends.

• Deep expertise in labor relations and collective bargaining within unionized environments.
• Proven experience leading labor strategy, negotiations, and contract administration across multiple bargaining units.
• Strong people leadership skills, with experience developing high-performing teams.
• Ability to influence and advise senior leaders with credibility, sound judgment, and executive presence.
• Excellent collaboration skills and the ability to partner effectively across HR, Legal, and Operations.
• Strong analytical skills and comfort using data to inform strategy and decision-making.
• In-depth knowledge of federal, state, and local labor laws and regulations.
• 10+ years of progressive labor relations experience in a unionized environment.
• 5+ years of direct people management experience.
• Ability to interpret and analyze legal materials and collective bargaining agreements.
• Bachelor’s degree in labor relations, Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.

• Master’s degree or JD.

At REI, we believe the outdoors is for all. We are committed to becoming a fully inclusive, anti-racist, multicultural organization (). We know that there's strength in our diversity – that each employee brings unique skills, experiences, and perspectives. Every day you are driving change, fostering a culture of respect, and knowing you're backed by benefits that support your whole life.

To work towards this commitment and fulfill our…