Overview

We are seeking a strategic and experienced HR leader to establish and lead our North America Employee Relations Center of Excellence (ER COE).   This role will be responsible for building a scalable, centralized employee relations function that ensures fairness, consistency, compliance and a positive workplace culture.   The ER COE Leader will set policies, frameworks and best practices while providing guidance and oversight of complex employee relations issues across the organization.   The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of employee relations and a passion for promoting employee engagement.   Initially, in addition to setting up the ER COE, this role will also provide HR Business Partner support for our Hopkinton, MA site.  

Responsibilities

Design and Build the ER COE:

• Develop and implement the vision, strategy, operating model, and structure for the Employee Relations Center of Excellence.
• Create standardized ER policies, processes, toolkits, and protocols aligned with organizational values and compliance requirements.
• Establish metrics and reporting systems to track ER performance, risks and trends.
• Empower business partners to manage employee disciplinary actions to ensure consistent, and fair application of company policies, procedures and laws.
• Analyze multiple levels of employee and partner feedback to identify risks and gaps

Employee Engagement and Culture:

• Promote a culture of open communication, trust, and respect within the organization.
• Develop initiatives to enhance employee engagement and satisfaction.
• Facilitate HR collaboration to address employee concerns and improve workplace culture.

Strategic Leadership and Consultation

• Serve as a subject matter expert and trusted advisor on employee relations matters.
• Lead complex employee relations investigations. Partner with key stakeholders to ensure matters are closed out appropriately.   Ensure consistent interactions with business leaders, HR Partners, and employees to help navigate situations as they arise.
• Partner with our legal team on policy interpretation, investigations and risk mitigation.
• Provide data analysis and reporting solutions based on business needs, highlighting key trends in employee relations and actively drive proactive solutions to mitigate risk.

Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensure all ER practices comply with federal, state and local laws and regulations
• Partner with legal counsel to monitor emerging ER trends and legal developments, update policies and processes accordingly.
• Conduct audits and develop risk mitigation strategies for appropriate stakeholders.
• Partner closely with legal as the primary HR point of contact for matters relating to our corporate compliance program – specifically regarding Ethics Hotline matters.  

HR Business Partner

• Collaborate with business leaders to understand their goals and challenges, providing HR insights and solutions that align with the overall business strategy.
• Act as a trusted advisor to management on HR-related issues, including workforce planning, talent development, and organizational design.
• Provide guidance and coaching to leaders on managing change effectively within their teams.
• Oversee the performance management process, ensuring alignment with business goals and fostering a culture of continuous feedback and development.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or related field
• 10+ years of experience in HR with a significant portion of that time in an employee relations capacity
• Experience setting up and working in employee relations COE
• Strong knowledge of employment laws and HR best practices
• Proven ability to develop and implement effective policies and large-scale programs
• Proven capability to lead large-scale change initiatives
• Demonstrated experience conducting investigations and managing complex employee relations situations
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to influence others
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret and make data-driven decisions
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Strong executive presence
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, matrixed environment. Ability to prioritize effectively and independently
• Sound judgement and critical thinking skills
• Willing to travel 15-20% (as needed)