Director of Labor Relations

A healthcare organization in New York City is seeking an experienced Director of People Relations to lead labor and employee relations across the organization. This role is critical in creating a collaborative, compliant, and inclusive workplace that aligns with the hospital's mission to deliver patient-centered care. Responsibilities The Director of People Relations will be responsible for: Overseeing all aspects of labor relations, collective bargaining, and employee relations, ensuring legal compliance and fostering positive union-management relationships. This role combines both strategic leadership and hands-on expertise in managing workplace culture and labor relations. Leading labor relations strategies, including negotiating and administering collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) with multiple unions Acting as the main liaison for union representatives and supporting positive labor-management relationships Advising managers and HR staff on labor relations issues, including contract interpretation, grievance handling, and disciplinary processes Investigating employee grievances and complaints, ensuring fair and timely resolutions Ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local labor laws and maintaining awareness of relevant regulatory changes Overseeing workplace investigations and managing disciplinary actions to maintain a respectful work environment Collaborating with the HR team to develop and implement policies that support organizational goals and promote employee engagement Training managers on best practices in employee relations, including union interaction and conflict resolution Tracking labor relations metrics, identifying trends, and providing recommendations for continuous improvement Serving as a labor relations expert for executive leadership, supporting strategic decision-making Promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives that reflect the hospital's patient population Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Industrial Relations, or related field; Master's degree preferred 8 years of experience in labor or employee relations, with at least 3 years in a healthcare or hospital environment Extensive knowledge of labor laws, collective bargaining, and union environments Proven experience negotiating CBAs and managing union relationships Strong analytical, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution skills Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to manage sensitive issues effectively Ability to work in a fast-paced, complex environment with both strategic and hands-on approaches Desired Skills SPHR, SHRM-SCP, or similar HR certification preferred Experience implementing DEI programs and fostering inclusive workplace practices Proficiency with HRIS systems and labor relations tracking tools Strong strategic thinking and proactive problem-solving abilities