Director, Global Employee Relations

RTI International (RTI) is an independent, nonprofit research institute dedicated to improving the human condition. Our vision is to address the world's most critical problems with science-based solutions in pursuit of a better future. Clients rely on us to answer questions that demand an objective and multidisciplinary approach-one that integrates expertise across the social and laboratory sciences, engineering, and international development. Our staff of nearly 6,000 works in more than 75 countries-tackling hundreds of projects each year to address complex social and scientific challenges on behalf of governments, businesses, foundations, universities, and other clients and partners.

The Director of Global Employee Relations provides strategic leadership and oversight to the Employee Relations (ER) function within the organization. The Director's primary responsibility is to develop and implement comprehensive global ER strategies, policies, and programs that foster positive working relationships, mitigate risks, and ensure compliance with employment laws and regulations. This role leads a team of Global ER professionals, collaborates with senior and executive leaders, internal and external legal counsel, and HR Business Partners to ensure the ER team serves as trusted advisors to address complex ER issues. The Director's international expertise and guidance contribute to a supportive and inclusive work environment globally.

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and execute a strategic ER vision, aligning it with the organization's goals and values.
• Provide leadership and guidance to the global ER team, ensuring the implementation of effective strategies and
  programs.
• Policy Development and Oversight: Oversee the development and maintenance of ER policies and procedures that comply with employment laws and regulations. Regularly review and update policies to address emerging trends and changes in legislation, domestically and internationally. Ensure policies are communicated effectively throughout the
  organization.
• Global Oversight: Manage employee relations cases, investigations, and resolutions across all international regions, ensuring consistency in handling employee concerns such as workplace disputes, performance management,
  grievances, and terminations.
• Complex ER Investigations: Lead and manage investigations into complex ER matters, such as discrimination, harassment, and misconduct allegations. Establish investigation protocols and ensure a fair and thorough process
  while maintaining confidentiality and impartiality. Provide expert advice and recommendations on appropriate actions and resolutions.
• Collaboration and Guidance: Collaborate with HR Business Partners, legal counsel, and other stakeholders to address and resolve ER issues. Offer guidance and support in interpreting policies, navigating conflicts, and ensuring consistent application of practices. Act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on ER matters.
• ER Training Programs: Develop and deliver ER training programs for managers and employees to enhance awareness, understanding, and compliance with policies and regulations. Conduct training, needs assessments and tailor programs to address specific needs within the organization.
• Compliance and Industry Best Practices: Stay abreast of evolving employment laws, regulations, and industry best practices related to ER. Provide updates and recommendations to senior leadership and relevant stakeholders to
  ensure compliance and mitigate potential risks. Develop proactive strategies to address emerging trends and issues.
• Data Analysis and Continuous Improvement: Analyze ER data and trends to identify areas for improvement. Develop strategies and initiatives to proactively address potential ER issues and foster a positive work environment. Utilize data-driven insights to inform decision-making and measure the effectiveness of ER initiatives.
• Team Management and Mentorship: Coach and mentor, the ER team, fostering their professional development and growth. Provide guidance on complex cases and facilitate their continuous learning and skill development. Conduct performance evaluations and provide feedback to enhance team performance.
• Communication and Spokesperson: Partner with senior leaders to develop and implement effective communication strategies related to ER initiatives, ensuring consistent messaging and transparency throughout the organization. Act as a spokesperson on ER matters when necessary.
• Case Management and Process Enhancement: Ensure accurate and confidential documentation of ER cases and related records, complying with data protection regulations and internal policies. Implement efficient systems for
  record-keeping and case management.
• Evaluation and Continuous Improvement: Continuously assess and enhance ER processes, practices, and policies. Implement innovative solutions and best practices to drive improvements and promote a positive employee experience.
  Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of ER programs and initiatives.
• Global HR Collaboration: Partner with regional HR teams and senior management to address employee relations challenges in different regions, ensuring consistent application of policies and practices across geographies.
• Change Management: Support organizational changes such as mergers, acquisitions, or restructurings by providing expertise in employee relations to ensure smooth transitions.

Bachelor's Degree and 18 years of experience, Master's degree and 14 years of experience, PhD and 10 years of experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Bachelor's degree and experience in relevant field (E.g., Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field). Juris Doctor (JD), advanced degree or certification is preferred.
• Progressive leadership experience, including team management and development.
• Strong demonstrated knowledge of employment laws, regulations, and industry best practices related to employee relations.
• Proven track record in leading complex investigations and resolving high-stakes employee relations issues in the U.S. and internationally.
• Experience managing employee relations in a multi-country environment, with a deep understanding of cultural sensitivities and regional legal frameworks.
• Previous experience in conflict mediation or formal conflict resolution training.
• Significant experience in conducting employee investigations and maintaining confidential records.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to convey complex information effectively.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and discretion with sensitive information.
• Interpersonal skills and a collaborative mindset for building strong relationships and effective teamwork.
• Effective conflict resolution skills, including negotiation abilities.
• Meticulous attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent time management skills to handle multiple tasks and deadlines effectively.
• Demonstrated empathy and emotional intelligence in dealing with sensitive employee relations matters.
• Adaptability to handle diverse and complex employee relations matters.
• Strong analytical skills, including data analysis for interpreting employee relations data and identifying trends.
• Customer service orientation to address employee concerns and inquiries with care.
• Demonstrated ability to be flexible and adaptable in a dynamic work environment.
• Proficiency with HR information systems (HRIS) platforms and Microsoft Office Suite products.
• Fluency in multiple languages is a plus.

For San Francisco, CA USA Job Postings Only: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Further information is available here.

RTI accepts applications to our job openings from candidates with criminal histories or conviction records in accordance with all applicable laws, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.

For Applicants in Massachusetts Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

The anticipated pay range for this role is listed below. Our pay ranges represent national averages and may vary by location as a geographic differential may be applied to some locations within the United States. RTI considers multiple factors when making an offer including, for example: established salary range, internal budget, business needs, and education and years of work experience possessed by the applicant. Further, salary is merely one element to our offer.

At RTI, we demonstrate our commitment to rewarding individual and team achievement through a total rewards package. This package includes (among other things) a competitive base salary, a generous paid time off policy, merit based annual increases, bonus opportunities and a robust recognition program. Other benefits include a competitive range of insurance plans (including health, dental, life, and short-term and long-term disability), access to a retirement savings program such as a 401(k) plan, paid parental leave for all parents, financial assistance with adoption expenses or infertility treatments, financial reimbursement for education and developmental opportunities, an employee assistance program, and numerous other offerings to support a healthy work-life balance.