Employee Relations Director (Lawyer), Americas

Description

The role leads the Employee Relations function for the Americas, supporting the Global Employee Relations Centre of Expertise and executing a consistent strategy that aligns with company values and drives sustainable business success. It serves as a trusted advisor to senior leaders, navigating complex employment law landscapes while championing inclusive policies that balance global consistency with local relevance.

The leader shapes labor and union relations strategy, building collaborative relationships with unions and works councils, and equips local HR teams with the guidance, resources, and tools needed to deliver consistent, people‑first employee relations experiences that enhance the employer brand.

• Lead the Employee Relations function for the Americas, aligning with global strategy.
• Advise senior leaders on employee relations and employment law matters.
• Design and govern policies that balance global consistency with local relevance.
• Act as escalation point for high‑impact employee relations cases and investigations worldwide.
• Coach HR leaders to build employee relations and legal acumen across the organization.
• Provide strategic support for transformations such as restructuring, M&A, and cultural shifts.
• Build and maintain relationships with internal partners, works councils, regulators, and industry bodies.
• Lead and develop a globally dispersed employee relations team.
• Use data and AI to proactively identify risks and ensure compliance with labor laws.
• Shape union engagement and collective‑bargaining strategies, empowering local HR teams.

Requirements

The ideal candidate is a qualified employment lawyer with deep expertise in global labor laws, proven experience leading employee relations strategy in large, matrixed organizations, and a track record of managing issues across diverse geographies and cultures. They are an inspirational people leader who can develop globally dispersed teams and guide the organization through transformations such as restructuring, M&A, and cultural change.

A strong analytical mindset is required to interpret employee relations trends, leverage data and AI for strategic insights, and proactively identify emerging risks. This proactive approach ensures compliance with labor regulations and protects both employees and the business while fostering a workplace where people feel safe, respected, and heard.

• Qualified employment lawyer with deep knowledge of global labor and employment laws.
• Proven experience leading employee relations strategy in large, matrixed multinational organizations.
• Track record managing employee relations and employment law across multiple geographies and cultural contexts.
• Demonstrated ability to lead through change, M&A, restructuring, or crisis with a people‑first approach.
• Strong analytical mindset; skilled at interpreting trends and turning data into actionable strategy.
• High cultural fluency and inclusive leadership style.
• Inspirational leader experienced in developing globally dispersed teams.

Benefits

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance