Director Labor Relations

We are seeking an experienced Director of Employee & Labor Relations to lead enterprise-wide labor relations strategy, drive collective bargaining outcomes, and shape a culture of accountability and positive employee experience across a large, multi state organization. This role is highly visible, working directly with operations leaders, HR leadership, union leadership, and executive stakeholders.

The ideal candidate will be a hands-on, execution-oriented labor relations leader who can step immediately into complex negotiations, grievance management, and union/employee relations strategy.

Key Responsibilities

Labor Relations Strategy & Leadership

Develop and implement company-wide labor relations philosophies and strategies aligned with corporate objectives.

Interpret complex CBA provisions, arbitration awards, and employment/labor laws to ensure consistent application across multiple CBAs

Maintain enterprise labor strategy documentation and guide labor priorities through the Labor Steering Committee.

Negotiations & Contract Administration

Lead collective bargaining negotiations end-to-end — not just support or consult.

Build productive, trust-based relationships with union leaders across multiple states.

Manage grievances, arbitration preparation, and dispute resolution.

Serve as company witness during hearings and collaborate with Legal to mitigate risk.

Positive Employee Relations

Design positive employee relations strategies including union avoidance, risk assessments, and leader capability-building.

Create and maintain ER/LR scorecards to identify trends and guide interventions.

Leadership Development & Capability Building

Coach leaders to own and strengthen relationships with union representatives.

Develop and lead a high-functioning labor relations team.

Serve as SME on evolving labor and employment laws.

Required Experience

7+ years in labor relations, collective bargaining, and employee relations in a large, multi state organization.

Lead full-scale collective bargaining negotiations, not just participate.

Conduct fact-finding investigations, grievance hearings, and arbitration prep.

Work effectively with both union and non union environments.

Strong analytical, communication, and executive presentation skills.

Ability to influence in a matrixed environment and balance multiple stakeholders.

Bachelor’s degree required; MBA preferred.

Travel requirement: 50% — the candidate must be flexible and available for significant travel.

Key Attributes

Hands-on negotiator — someone who will roll up their sleeves, enter negotiations directly, and actively lead discussions.

Comfortable stepping into a high-visibility, fast-paced environment.

Skilled at building relationships with union leadership and senior executives.

Able to translate complex labor issues into clear guidance for leaders.

High emotional intelligence, political savvy, and conflict-resolution skills.