Join us as we transform immunology and deliver medicines that help autoimmune patients get their lives back. argenx is preparing for multi-dimensional expansion to reach more patients through a rich pipeline of differentiated assets, led by VYVGART, our first-in-class neonatal Fc receptor blocker approved for the treatment of gMG, and with the potential to treat patients across dozens of severe autoimmune diseases.
We are building a new kind of biotech company, one that maintains its roots as a science-based start-up and pushes our commitment to innovate across all corners of our business. We strive to inspire and grow our company, our partnerships, our science, and our people, because when we do, we deliver more for patients.
A strategic leadership role responsible for employee relations in a growing biotech organization. This position is responsible for providing leadership in employee relations, workplace investigations, coaching and guiding employees as well as People and Team leaders and developing risk mitigation strategies / initiatives to ensure continuous growth and progress in the area of employee relations. This role plays a critical role in ensuring we are providing a positive employee experience in support of patient experience. This role reports to the Head of HR, North America and works closely with Legal, HR Business Partners, employees and leaders throughout the organization.
Roles and Responsibilities:
- Develop, communicate, and execute the employee relations strategy and framework in support of ensuring strong employee / employer relationships in support of our achieving our bold ambition for patients
- Provide Employee Relations guidance and advice directly to employees and HR Business Partners in a dynamic environment, regarding various aspects of the employment relationship, including employee concerns, people leader / team leader effectiveness, performance management, and organizational changes
- Responsible for developing a framework for, conducting and managing internal Employee Relations concerns, complaints and investigations. This includes partnering with Compliance, Legal and, as needed, other stakeholders to lead internal Employee Relations investigations
- Lead complex employee relations investigations and provide guidance on sensitive personnel matters
- Develop and implement workplace policies that align with current employment law and organizational culture
- Partner with employees to address workplace matters and organizational changes
- Manage dispute resolution processes and mediate workplace conflicts
- Provide coaching and advise on workplace matters, inclusive of performance management, conflict resolution, disciplinary matters, and best practices
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws
- Review and update employment policies, handbooks, and procedures
- Foster an environment that is in alignment with the argenx Way (cultural pillars and operating principles)
- Collaborate with Legal and Compliance (as needed) on employment matters
- Lead training initiatives in support of ensuring a workplace that is aligned with our argenx Way
Skills and Competencies:
- Strong investigative and analytical skills
- Excellence in conflict resolution and mediation
- Superior verbal and written communication skills that support building strong partnerships, appropriate influence, and portraying an objective and defensible position on situations
- Strong organizational skills, with the ability to set priorities and carry out multiple, diverse assignments within time deadlines, ensuring appropriate action is taken to move open cases forward to resolution in a timely manner.
- Knowledge of HR related best practices, policies and procedures in the US and Canada and an understanding of US and Canadian employment laws.
- Experience managing sensitive and confidential matters
- Proven ability to facilitate meetings
- Demonstrated ability to coach and train employees and to develop effective programs/interventions that meet business needs
- Exceptional judgment and ethical standards
- Strategic thinking with practical problem-solving abilities
- Strong emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills
- Ability to influence at all organizational levels
- Strong connector with others in the organization, inclusive of HR colleagues outside of North America
- Calm and composed under pressure
Education, Experience and Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Human Resources or related field or equivalent experience. A Master's degree in industrial/labor relations, HR is preferred; a JD is a plus
- Minimum of 10 years work experience in Employee Relations and/or HRBP experience; Biotech or Pharma background preferred.
- Deep knowledge of federal and state employment laws (FLSA, FMLA, ADA, Title VII, etc.)
- Experience with Canada employment laws and regulations
- Professional certifications (SPHR, SHRM-SCP), preferred
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At argenx, all applicants are welcomed in an inclusive environment. They will receive equal consideration for employment without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other applicable legally protected characteristics. argenx is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.
If you require reasonable accommodation in completing your application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the candidate selection process please contact us at hr.us@argenx.com. Only inquiries related to an accommodation request will receive a response.
