Manager, Employee & Labor Relations

Your Opportunity as the Manager, Employee & Labor Relations

Lead employee and labor relations strategies that shape a positive workplace across our manufacturing network. Advise leaders on complex employee matters, oversee investigations, support union negotiations, and drive initiatives that strengthen engagement and compliance. We're looking for an experienced HR professional with a strong background in labor relations and manufacturing who thrives in a fast-paced environment.

Location: Working Remote USA

Work Arrangements: Remote; Eastern Standard Time preferred, up to 50% travel annually

In this role you will:

• Serve as the primary point of contact and provide guidance to operations leaders, HR professionals, and employees on employee relations matters, in compliance with the Company's Investigation Protocol and Corrective Action Matrix.

• Collaborate with regional/site HR managers, Compliance, Legal, and Corporate Employee Relations teams to ensure investigations are completed in accordance with JM Smucker Policy and Code of Conduct.

• Cascade information on employee relations initiatives and investigations to all levels of Company leadership, including Operations Vice Presidents.

• Upon completion of investigations, partner with site leadership to finalize outcomes, including follow-up communication and implementation of corrective action as needed. Complete investigations as needed.

• Develop and deliver appropriate employee education and training applicable to ER philosophies, guidelines, and policies.

• Partner with site leaders to address performance-related concerns (including the application of Performance Improvement Plans [PIPs]).

• Assist with the analysis of employee relations issues such as employee turnover, hiring, transfer and promotion practices, exit interview information, etc., to identify trends or inform any action steps (e.g., training, coaching, or recommendations for improvement).

• Interpret, administer, and ensure compliance with existing labor contracts, providing guidance to site leaders on contract provisions, policies, and procedures.

• Serve as the main point of contact for escalated grievances, arbitration preparation, and unfair labor practices (ULPs) to ensure resolution and alignment with Company standards and labor agreements.

• Participate in contract negotiations preparation with site leaders, serving as a key advisor to align with Company strategy. Provide guidance and leadership during the contract negotiations process.

• Prepare and deliver training to ensure positive employee relations at non-union locations, reinforcing Company values and best practices.

• Provide guidance and support to site leaders during periods of potential union organizing, ensuring full compliance with the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA).

• Partner with HR regional managers, site HR managers, operations leaders, the Employee Relations team, COEs, and others as appropriate in support of organization initiatives and special projects.

• Provide support during Company mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, and site closures to ensure smooth transitions and compliance with Company policies and legal requirements.

The Right Place for You

We are bold, kind, strive to do the right thing, we play to win, and we believe in a strong community that thrives together. Our culture is rooted in our Basic Beliefs, and we believe in supporting every employee by meeting their physical, emotional, and financial needs.

What we are looking for:

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree

• 8+ years of HR experience

• 3+ years of experience in employee relations and labor relations/union experience

• 3+years of experience in supporting operations/manufacturing

• Experience developing, enhancing and delivering processes to maximize efficiency and deliver quality services

• Experience successfully managing multiple priorities and projects under time, budget, and environmental constraints

• Strong people leadership skills and a demonstrated track record of success leading initiatives

Learn more about working at Smucker:

• Helping our Employees Thrive

• Delivering on Our Purpose

• Our Continued Commitment to Ensuring a Workplace for All

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