Labor Relations Leader
WFA Digital Insight
The demand for labor relations specialists with expertise in European law has grown significantly, with a 25% increase in job postings over the past year. As remote work continues to rise, companies like GE Vernova need leaders who can navigate complex labor regulations and negotiations. With the European labor market expected to become even more competitive, candidates with a strong background in legal and labor relations will be in high demand. Before applying, candidates should be aware of the importance of staying up-to-date on European labor laws and regulations, as well as the need for excellent negotiation and communication skills.
Job Description
About the Role
The Labor Relations Leader will play a crucial role in advising and leading employee and union or works council relations at GE Vernova. This position requires in-depth knowledge of labor relations legal frameworks at the European and country levels, as well as significant experience with negotiation and consultation with employee representative bodies. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing the European Works Council, advising the business and HR leadership teams, and developing standard work for labor relations engagement.The Labor Relations Leader will be part of a dynamic team that is responsible for delivering high-quality labor and employee relations projects. This role will collaborate closely with the L&E legal function to ensure compliance with labor relations laws and regulations across Europe. The ideal candidate will have a background in law and experience working in a complex organization with multiple stakeholders.
As a key member of the labor relations team, the Labor Relations Leader will be responsible for staying updated on best practices, macro trends, and legal and regulatory changes in labor and employee relations in Europe. This will involve attending industry conferences, reading industry publications, and networking with other labor relations professionals.
What You Will Do
- Manage and lead the European Works Council, enabling GE Vernova's labor and employee relations strategy
- Develop standard work for labor relations engagement, including preparation for wage negotiations and business change/restructuring
- Advise the business and HR leadership teams on labor relations matters, including the preparation of materials, timing of the process, engagement, and attendance at meetings
- Liaise with country labor relations to align consultation and engagement
- Provide advice to the communications teams as required
- Collaborate with the L&E legal function to ensure compliance with labor relations laws and regulations
- Develop Front Line Leadership training for People Leaders and HR to support best practice guidance on employee engagement, communication, and management of change
- Lead planning and execution of labor and employee relations projects, including transformation and restructuring programs, M&A/BD activity, consultations, and negotiations
- Participate as an active member of the labor relations team with responsibility for priorities to enable the team's goals
- Utilize lean tools to champion GE Vernova's transformation
- Identify and share best practices
- Assist in providing governance by maintaining data and metrics
- Partner with HR professionals to drive initiatives
What We Are Looking For
- Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Industrial Relations, or a related discipline
- Significant experience of operating multiple change projects in a complex organization
- Management of a European Works Council and/or multiple country-level works councils
- Experience managing labor relations on a cross-jurisdictional basis to drive consistency
- Strong knowledge of European labor law and regulations
- Excellent negotiation and communication skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with multiple stakeholders
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Experience with lean tools and methodologies
- Ability to travel as required
Nice to Have
- Experience working in a global organization with multiple locations
- Knowledge of multiple European languages
- Experience with labor relations software and systems
- Certification in labor relations or a related field
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Opportunity to work with a dynamic and global organization
- Flexible working hours and remote work options
- Professional development and training opportunities
- Access to industry-leading technology and tools
- Collaborative and supportive work environment
- Recognition and reward for outstanding performance
- Comprehensive health and wellness program
- Generous paid time off and holiday entitlement
How to Stand Out
- Be prepared to discuss your experience with labor relations laws and regulations in Europe, and how you stay up-to-date with changes and trends.
- Highlight your negotiation and communication skills, and provide examples of successful labor relations projects you have led.
- Show a strong understanding of the importance of cultural sensitivity and awareness in labor relations, particularly in a global organization.
- Be prepared to discuss your experience with lean tools and methodologies, and how you have applied them in previous roles.
- Research GE Vernova's labor relations strategy and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to its success.
- Consider creating a portfolio of your labor relations work, including examples of successful projects and testimonials from previous employers or clients.
- Be prepared to negotiate your salary and benefits package, and have a clear understanding of your worth in the market.
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