Senior Employee Relations Partner

Senior Employee Relations Partner Position Summary

The Senior Employee Relations (ER) Partner leads enterprise employee relations strategy, balancing proactive prevention with effective case management across a highly distributed global workforce. This role strengthens performance through leader coaching and fair, consistent resolution of workplace issues. The Partner applies principled frameworks and policy standards with practical judgment, advises leaders on complex and high-risk people matters, identifies patterns and root causes to prevent escalation, and integrates data, technology, and compliance rigor to support sound decision-making and mitigate organizational risk.

• Lead the Positive Employee Relations function, defining strategy, standards, and programs that promote trust, early issue resolution, and consistent employee experience across a highly distributed workforce.
• Partner with HRBPs and people managers to drive accountability, culture, and performance; equip leaders with guidance and scripts for complex or high‑risk conversations.
• Continuously improve ER processes through technology and automation, increasing scalability, data visibility, and proactive risk identification.
• Translate workforce trends into targeted programs, tools, and training, including playbooks and resources, that strengthen manager capability and prevent avoidable issues.
• Conduct intakes, lead investigations, and own case management end‑to‑end, ensuring timely resolution, sound judgment, and complete, compliant documentation.
• Serve as a neutral advisor in conflict resolution and corrective action, guiding leaders through disciplinary decisions and sensitive separations in alignment with policy and risk tolerance.
• Partner cross‑functionally with HRBPs, Legal, Compliance, Security, and Operations to align on case strategy, performance management actions, organizational changes, and related communications.
• Track ER/compliance metrics and trends; analyze data to identify risks and improvements; report insights and drive action plans.
• Maintain handbook and policy governance; monitor regulatory changes and translate requirements into clear, practical guidance and updates.
• Ensure consistent policy interpretation and application, identifying policy gaps, mitigating risk, and escalating high‑impact or high‑risk issues as needed.
• Own HR compliance calendar and audit readiness, including EEO Filings, affirmative action plans, and VETS reporting.

• Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business, or related field required.
• 8+ years of progressive HR or Employee Relations experience.
• Proven success leading employee relations strategies and programs for a diverse workforce.
• Strong coaching skills with the ability to build high‑trust, high‑performance cultures.
• Demonstrated integrity, discretion, and ability to handle sensitive matters confidentially.

• Principal Employee Relations Partner
• Workplace Relations Partner
• Director Employee Relations

• Employee Relations Strategy
• Workplace Investigations
• Risk & Compliance Management
• Leader Coaching & Advisory
• Policy Governance & Interpretation

• Seniority Level: Mid‑Senior level
• Employment Type:
  
  Full‑time
• Job Function:
  Human Resources
• Industries:
  Business Consulting and Services

Cherokee Nation Businesses Corp – CFED (CNB) is a part of Cherokee Federal – the division of tribally owned federal contracting companies owned by Cherokee Nation Businesses. As a trusted partner for more than 60 federal clients, Cherokee Federal LLCs are focused on building a brighter future, solving complex challenges, and serving the government’s mission with compassion and heart. To learn more about CNB, visit

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Cherokee Federal is a military‑friendly employer. Veterans and active military transitioning to civilian status are encouraged.

Legal Disclaimer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law. Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations.