Manager, Labour Relations

At Hydro Ottawa, we empower the lives of the people in the communities we serve.

As the electricity distributor to the Nation’s Capital, our work powers the essential activities that make up our lives - at home, at work and at play. And as Ontario’s largest municipally-owned producer of green power, we are leading the way to a greener tomorrow.

We are seeking a Manager, Labour Relations, a change champion and innovative leader ready to embrace the opportunity to guide and mentor others, and enable them to do their best work. And in doing so, to leave a legacy.

Are you ready to make a difference in our community?

JOB SUMMARY

Reporting to the Director, Human Resources Services and Labour Relations, the Manager, Labour Relations is responsible for the Labour Relations Centre of Expertise and for due diligence and transition activities associated with mergers and acquisitions.

The Manager, Labour Relations works in a Human Resources Operating and Service Delivery Model that includes HR Centres of Expertise, HR Shared Services and HR Partners.

The Manager, Labour Relations sets the tone for positive and constructive union/management relations and is responsible for planning, developing and implementing labour relations and collective bargaining strategies, as well as providing solutions to client/business needs in alignment with Hydro Ottawa’s Talent Management Roadmap and Strategic Direction.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

- Foster and advance a positive and constructive labour relations environment and working relationship with bargaining agents and their representatives through established and informal mechanisms.

- Develop collective bargaining strategies and the formulation of mandates for collective agreement renewals.

- Represent management in collective bargaining, the grievance and arbitration procedure and at other tribunals as appropriate.

- Oversee the disciplinary and grievance management processes.

- Provide support, advice and consultation on the administration and interpretation of the collective agreements, Hydro Ottawa’s Code of Business Conduct, policies, procedures and employment and labour legislation.

- Oversee the investigation of workplace harassment and discrimination and violence complaints in conjunction with the Workplace Violence Coordinator and in accordance with legislation and policies and programs.

- Liaise with internal and external legal counsel, as required.

- Provide human resources leadership for mergers and acquisitions, including due diligence reviews, and the development and implementation of strategies for transitions.

- Prepare, monitor and manage the annual labour relations budget and monitor, analyze and report performance metrics.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

- An undergraduate degree in Human Resources Management, Commerce/Business Administration, Public Administration, Industrial Relations or a related field

- Master’s degree in Industrial Relations or other relevant Master’s degree considered an asset

- Minimum ten years progressively responsible experience in Human Resources, Labour Relations advisory and leadership role in a complex, multi-jurisdictional, unionized environment.

- Proven experience leading collective bargaining

- Superior knowledge in areas of labour relations and human resources, as well as all aspects of employment and labour legislation and regulations in Ontario; Quebec and New York State considered an asset.

- Solid knowledge of human resources best practices and industry trends in various business environments.

- Excellent communication skills both written and spoken.

- Excellent project management, problem solving and conflict resolution skills.

- Strong computer skills; proficient in the use of office productivity and collaboration tools, preferably Google Workspace.

- Experience and exposure to mergers and acquisitions considered an asset.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

- English language skills essential, Bilingualism (French/English) or other languages considered an asset.

This is a management group opportunity and salary will be commensurate with qualifications.

Hydro Ottawa offers a Hybrid Work Model. Hybrid work is position specific, the details of which the hybrid model will be discussed with successful candidates.

Hydro Ottawa may use artificial intelligence (“AI”) during the recruitment process to aid in the screening and selection of candidates.