Director, Labour Relations

Role Purpose

The Director, Labour Relations is responsible for the direction and oversight of the company's labour relations programs, policies, and procedures.

Key Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain positive and productive labour-management relations with all Canadian ILWU locals and representatives.
• Responsible for the preparation of and participation in labour arbitration hearings.
• Work closely with all Operations, Maintenance and HSSE management teams on labour matters to ensure the consistent application of collective agreements, programs and policies.
• Develop and ensure that onsite Operational, Maintenance and HSSE management teams receive adequate training and support to ensure the continuity of the business.
• Provide day-to-day counsel on labour contract interpretation and risk assessment.
• Provide advice and counsel to management in collective bargaining contract interpretation and discipline matters.
• Prepare and negotiate initial and renewal direct labour agreements in accordance with organization's mandate. Monitors implementation of negotiated contract terms.
• Work closely with the BCMEA to support labour relations initiatives, strategy, objectives and industry alignment.

Knowledge & Qualifications

• A degree in industrial labour relations, business, operational management, logistics, HR or other related discipline.
• PMP certification is an asset.
• A minimum of five to ten years of demonstrated experience in labour relations (or equivalent), preferably in a federal multi union environment with primary responsibility for managing labour and employee relations.
• Proven leadership skills to develop and motivate project teams, combined with the ability to foster positive relationships both with and among team members.
• Demonstrated experience negotiating with unions and handling grievances and arbitrations.
• Exceptional communication and organizational skills, including the ability to work with and influence all levels in the organization.
• Sound judgement and analytical thinking that enables decision making, ability to manage projects and prioritize and manage timelines.
• Ability to gather, analyse and evaluate data within a complex environment.
• Thorough understanding of the collective agreement, dispatch rules, gang structure, and all government regulations regarding the handling, stowage and securing of cargo.
• Fluent in English.
• Previous Canadian work experience or experience working directly with Canadian industries.