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. This role is accountable for fostering positive relationships with unions, managing arbitration, and advising on collective agreement matters. This is an opportunity for a seasoned leader in labour relations to have a significant impact on the trajectory of the organization.

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.