JOB SUMMARY:

The Employee Relations Specialist plays a critical role in managing employment and labour relations within our organization, offering expert advice and support to internal clients, and fostering a collaborative relationship with unions.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:

•    Advise management and internal stakeholders on employment and labour relations policies and practices.
•    Interpret and ensure compliance with collective agreements and labour laws.
•    Mediate and resolve disputes between union and management.
•    Conduct investigations.
•    Prepare and present cases for grievances and other labour hearings.
•    Collaborate with union representatives to negotiate collective agreements.
•    Develop and implement labour relations strategies and initiatives.
•    Conduct training sessions for management and employees on employment and labour relations topics.
•    Provide guidance on disciplinary actions and terminations.
•    Monitor and analyze labour market trends and developments.
•    Maintain up-to-date knowledge of labour laws and regulations.
•    Prepare reports and documentation related to labour relations activities.
•    Lead and/or participate in cross-functional projects to provide functional expertise for corporate and departmental strategic planning initiatives
•    Represent the department and prepare and present material to internal and external audiences as required
•    Maintain knowledge of industry developments and best practices related to area of specialization and adapt them to SaskPower’s operational environment
•    Provide leadership and direction to project teams and/or assigned staff as required

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

•    Degree in Business Administration, Commerce or other related equivalent AND/OR;
•    Related professional designation(s) and/or certification(s) AND/OR;
•    Five (5) years experience in labour relations or human resources
•    In-depth knowledge of employment/labour laws, collective agreements, and dispute resolution.
•    Experience in developing and sustaining collaborative relationships through understanding, involvement, engagement, and communication with diverse clients and stakeholder groups;
•    Strong persuasive, tactful, consultative, and communication skills, both written and oral;
•    Experience with grievance, arbitrations and collective bargaining processes.
•    Strong negotiation and mediation skills.
•    Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
•    Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
•    Team player with the ability to build and maintain strategic relationships both internal and external to SaskPower
•    Results oriented thinker, with the ability to manage and provide advice regarding complex and confidential issues with sensitivity and professionalism
•    Excellent analytical, research and problem-solving skills
•    Ability to work and manage in a changing environment
•    Excellent facilitation, project management and decision-making skills
•    Ability to foster a culture focused on safety, innovation and teamwork
•    Demonstrated skill in SaskPower’s competencies
•    Must have a continuing record of professional development  

A suitable combination of relevant education and experience may also be considered