Director, Labour Relations

About Canadian North

Canadian North is a vital air service provider for the Canadian Arctic and an industry leading charter carrier with a mission to make life better in the communities we serve. It provides passenger and cargo services to 25 northern communities, connecting them with major southern hubs in Ottawa, Montreal, and Edmonton. Committed to cultural inclusivity and community investment, Canadian North prioritizes innovation, teamwork, and the well-being of northern communities. Canadian North is dedicated to continuous improvement and collaborative success. We aim to support our people and connect northern Canada with the world through reliable air travel and cargo services. Our customers choose us because they trust us to be reliable, safe, and there for them. We are valued by the North because we contribute to prosperity and community, and we strive to be a place where people want to start and grow.

Under the direction of the Vice President, Human Resources & Planning, the Direct, Labour Relations will be overseeing and managing all aspects of Labour Relations. The role ensures compliance with federal laws and regulations, fosters positive relationships with unions, and contributes to the development and implementation of effective labour relations strategies.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership in the development and execution of LR strategies aligned with company goals and strategic plan;
• Understand risks inherent to Labor Relations and ensure effective controls are in place;
• Collaborate with senior leadership to ensure that LR initiatives support the overall business objectives;
• Coach senior leaders on strategy development, execution planning and resolution of escalated issues;
• Lead collective bargaining negotiations, working towards fair and mutually beneficial agreements;
• Lead, participate and support workplace investigations of varying complexities such as allegations of inappropriate behavior, misconduct, discrimination, harassment, retaliation, workplace violence, theft, substance abuse, falsification, or other employee misconduct or violations of policies;
• Ensure the workplace investigation process is objective, timely and within the provisions of the various collective agreements, legislation and policies; and make recommendations concerning the appropriate disposition;
• Build and maintain positive relationships with union representatives;
• Work to enhance communication and collaboration between the company and unions;
• Stay abreast of industry trends, legislative changes, and best practices in labour relations, and make recommendations for continuous improvement;
• Lead the overall direction and workload of the Labor Relation's team;
• Represent the company in labor-related hearings, arbitrations, and other legal proceedings as necessary;
• Optimize the team's performance, efficiencies and morale through strong leadership and employee recognition;
• Identify top talent, empower team members to be accountable and encourage cross-training opportunities;
• Travel required
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills & Qualifications:

• Degree in Human Resources, Industrial Relations, Business Administration, or a related field;
• Minimum 5 years experience in Labour Relations in a leadership role within the federal sector;
• Ability to obtain and retain an Airport Restricted Area Pass in accordance with the Airport Restricted Area Access Clearance Program regulated by Transport Canada.
• Proven experience in collective bargaining and negotiations;
• In-depth knowledge of labor laws, regulations, and industry standards, with the ability to interpret and apply them effectively;
• Strong communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills, with the ability to build consensus among diverse stakeholders;
• In-depth experience in analyzing workplace issues; formulating workplace investigation strategies; conducting interviews with complainants and respondents; preparing reports; and providing comprehensive advice to clients and management;
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a keen attention to detail;
• Demonstrated leadership and management capabilities, with experience leading cross-functional teams;
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism;
• Experience working collaboratively in a diverse and dynamic organizational environment;
• Experience developing plans, objectives, and initiatives to achieve and promote the behaviors, culture, and capabilities needed to achieve business strategies and organizational goals;
• Experience as a strategic partner, building influential relationships with key stakeholders;
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.

Closing Date: January 1, 2025