Senior Manager, Employee Relations - Global Communities

Global Communities works at the intersection of humanitarian assistance, sustainable development and financial inclusion to save lives, advance equity and secure strong futures. We support communities at the forefront of their own development in more than 35 countries, partnering with local leaders, governments, civil society and the private sector to achieve a shared vision of a more just, prosperous and equitable global community. 

The Sr. Manager, Employee Relations  plays a pivotal role in maintaining the civility and policy application in the workplace environment across our global operations. This position is responsible for the prompt, thorough, and objective investigation of workplace concerns and complaints raised by Global Communities employees in the United States and Globally. This role will act as a visible partner to the business and is the primary point of contact between the line organizations, senior management, and employees to address complaints, escalations, maintain organizational justice and mediate disputes in the business. This role will lead a team of other in-country ER Investigators in launching, reviewing, and closing active cases. The position reports to the Chief People Officer.

Responsibility Area: Investigations

• Act as the lead investigator for highly complex and sensitive workplace investigations across various business units.   
• Conduct thorough, impartial investigations into employee relations issues, including allegations of misconduct, discrimination, harassment, and policy violations.  
• Conduct interviews of complainants, subjects, and witnesses, and gather and analyze evidence making objective recommendations based on investigation findings; and drafting comprehensive investigative reports win a clear, concise manner 
• Ensure timely and effective resolution of cases, maintaining confidentiality and professionalism throughout the process. 
• Offer solutions and recommendations to resolve issues effectively and maintain a positive work environment. 
• Mediate and resolve conflicts between employees and management, fostering a constructive dialogue and finding mutually beneficial solutions.  
• Implement conflict resolution strategies that contribute to a harmonious and productive workplace. 

Responsibility Area: Coaching

• Provide expert advice and guidance to managers and employees on a wide range of employee relations matters.  
• Serve as a trusted resource for employees, fostering open communication and building trust within the organization. 
• Design and deliver training programs to educate managers and employees on company policies, employee relations best practices, and legal requirements. Promote awareness and understanding of employee rights and responsibilities. 
• Build strong relationships with key stakeholders to facilitate effective communication and collaboration. 
• Provide coaching and support to managers in handling difficult conversations and performance issues. 

Responsibility Area: Relationship Management

• Collaborate with the appropriate HR team member to develop, implement, and update company policies and procedures related to employee relations.  
• Ensure compliance with local and international employment laws and regulations. Consult with Legal/ Ethics Department as needed to ensure compliance and consistent interpretation of relevant laws and regulations. 
• Work closely with global HR and business leaders to align employee relations strategies with organizational goals.  
• Act as a liaison between employees and management to ensure mutual understanding and address concerns proactively. 
• Lead a team of  other ER investigators by reviewing escalated cases, advising on best practices, and managing the distribution of caseloads. 

Responsibility Area: Data Analysis

• Monitor and analyze employee relations data to identify trends and areas for improvement.  
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations for senior management, highlighting key findings and recommendations. 
• Maintain and enter case load information into a tracking document. 

POSITION SPECIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Frequent travel to assigned regions and client groups.
• Supervision Responsibilities-Lead a global team of employee relations and investigators
• Promote a culture of excellence, inclusion, learning, support, diversity, and innovation
• (Other responsibilities)

• Undergraduate degree in a related discipline and a minimum of six years of related work experience or a minimum of ten years of related work experience. or a  minimum of 10 years of related work experience.
• Preferred experience in employee relations, HR, or a related field, with a strong background in conducting investigations and managing complex employee relations issues.
• Experience working in a global, multicultural environment. Understanding of international labor laws and cultural sensitivities. 
• Interpersonal communication skills and experience building relationships at all levels of the organization. 
• Proactive strategic partnership, operational rigor, and speed of execution. 
• Exhibit strong leadership and influencing skills. 
• Ability to navigate ambiguity and remain agile in an ever-changing environment. 
• Knowledge of Federal government contracting rules and regulations as they pertain to human resources; understanding and familiarity with Donor's (USAID) regulations such as Department of State Standardized Regulations (DSSR), USAID Acquisition Regulation (AIDAR), Acquisition and Assistance Policy Directives (AAPD), Foreign Affairs Manual and Handbook (FAM and FAH) is preferred. 
• Superb judgment and integrity, including excellent decision-making skills and a sense of urgency. 
• Attention to detail and the ability to effectively handle multiple high impact priorities. 
• Deep understanding of U.S. employment/labor laws . 
• Ability to provide leadership on policies and procedures and present information (orally and written) in a manner that is clear and consistent to current and future global staff employees.
• Well-developed and highly effective listening, communication, and presentation skills, including the ability to receive, process and present information to diverse audiences while maintaining effective collaborative relationships. Proficiency in multiple languages is a plus. 
• Ability to manage deadlines, work independently, prioritize workload and multi-task in fast-paced environment. 
• Data analytics and proposal writing expertise and experience are required. 
• Regional expertise and experience required
• A passion for the mission and values of Global Communities

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Analytical and data management skills with experience translating data into action planning.
• Experience or advanced training in conflict management, workplace investigation, mediation, or dispute resolution.
• Knowledge and experience in the NGO, Non-Profit, Global Organizations, Matrixed Organizations, and international development organizations with a network of field offices.