Manager, Labour Relations

Position Summary:

Reporting to the Director, Human Resources and working closely with the Vice-President, Academic & Provost (VPAP), and OCAD University’s Deans and Managers, the Manager, Labour Relations is responsible for maintaining and supporting effective working relationships with faculty and staff labour groups in keeping with the University’s strategic and academic plans and values. The Manager leads OCAD U’s collective bargaining process for all labour groups (OCAD Faculty Association, OPSEU Unit 1 and OPSEU Unit 2), as well as managing the grievance process, including investigating all complaints and formal grievances and working with management and union representatives to determine possible resolutions. Responsibilities also include providing advice, support, guidance and training in the application and interpretation of collective agreements, employment law and related OCAD University (OCAD U) policies.

Summary of Responsibilities:

• In consultation with the Director and VPAP, lead academic collective bargaining planning and preparation, including the preparation of briefing notes and position papers for senior leadership on issues under consideration by the bargaining team and/or OCADFA, acting as chief spokesperson, and coordinating ratification and communication.
• In consultation with the Director, lead OPSEU Unit 1 and Unit 2 bargaining, including the development of proposals, acting as chief spokesperson, conducting research, and coordinating ratification and communication.
• Ensure accurate and timely implementation of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), OPSEU Unit 1 and Unit 2 collective agreements and settlements.
• Research, analyze, and interpret relevant policies, legislation, arbitration awards and collective agreements in order to advise stakeholders and support conflict resolution through problem solving.
• Interpret and provide guidance on the application of the MOA, collective agreements and employment legislation.
• In consultation with the Director and VPAP, develop and implement training programs for academic administrators and management focusing on interpreting policies and procedures outlined in the MOA and OPSEU collective agreements.
• Manage the university’s response to complaints and grievances, including attending grievance meetings, preparing correspondence and materials, maintaining records, conducting related research and investigations, and determining possible resolutions.
• Act as a key member of the Joint Committee (OCADFA) and Labour-Management Committee (OPSEU); advise the Director, VPAP, and Deans on related labour relations matters, and oversee meeting agendas to ensure issues are addressed through proactive engagement.
• Liaise with managers, union representatives, and senior executives, where necessary, to discuss and resolve employee/union grievances, complaints and issues that may arise.
• Work with the Director, VPAP, and Deans, to develop or update policies, and implement in conjunction with relevant University departments and stakeholders.
• Assist the Director with special projects and HR initiatives, as well as with related functions contributing to the successful operation of the Human Resources office.

Qualifications:

• Graduate degree in Labour Relations, Business or a related field, a Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL) designation, with a minimum of five (5) years of progressive work experience providing labour relations within a unionized environment, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Certification and/or experience in alternative dispute resolution techniques an asset, including mediation, facilitation, and fact-finding.
• A sound knowledge of the collective bargaining process, preferably with experience in a post-secondary or public sector environment and a familiarity with academic issues and trends.
• Strong attention to detail, analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills, with a proven ability to prioritize and meet deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and judgement, with a demonstrated ability to deal with sensitive or confidential matters with discretion.
• Strong computer skills and a working knowledge of all Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, and internet research skills; knowledge of Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS) an asset.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Demonstrated commitment to the principles of equity and diversity and experience promoting a respectful learning and working environment for students, staff, and faculty.

Compensation: Commensurate with experience, plus benefits.

Hours of Work: Total of 35 hours per week. Due to the COVID-19, the University is operating under a work from home program. At this time, the plan is to continue the work from home program until May 31, 2021, and as such the incumbent in this role will be working remotely during this time.

Application Deadline: Interested applicants are invited to submit an updated resume, with a cover letter through the OCAD University Employment Opportunities page. The review of applications will begin on Monday May 3, 2021 and will continue until the position has been filled.

As an employer committed to employment equity, we encourage applications from members of equity-seeking communities including women, racialized and Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, and persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities/expressions.

We encourage members of designated equity-seeking groups to self-identify within the voluntary Applicant Questionnaire.

In order to alleviate the under-representation of racialized and Indigenous administrators, priority in hiring will be given to qualified racialized and Indigenous persons who self-identify as such in the application process. This initiative is a special program under the Ontario Human Rights Code.

OCAD University is committed to providing an inclusive and barrier free experience to applicants with accessibility needs. Requests for accommodation can be made at any stage during the recruitment process. Please contact Human Resources for more information or refer to OCAD U’s Policy of Accommodation in Employment for Persons with Disabilities.

All qualified persons are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents of Canada will be given priority. While we thank all candidates for their interest, only those short-listed will be contacted.