Labour Relations Specialist

The Aboriginal Coalition to End Homelessness Society (ACEH) exists to lovingly provide culturally supportive, affordable housing and services that end Aboriginal homelessness on Vancouver Island. With an island-wide mandate, the ACEH’s work is guided by Indigenous leaders from across the three island Tribal Groups - Kwakwaka’wakw, NuuChahNulth, Coast Salish, as well as Métis Nation.

We are seeking an individual who is deeply passionate about supporting an Indigenous-led, non-profit organization and is committed to integrating traditional practices and protocols into the field of Human Resources. Additionally, we are looking for someone who possesses the enthusiasm, energy and stamina necessary as we navigate collective bargaining and experience rapid growth. Key strengths we prioritize include expertise in policy development, implementation, and evaluation, adept conflict resolution and mediation skills, and a thorough understanding of Labour Relations.

**KEY RESPONSIBILITIES**

Reporting to the Director of Operations and collaborating closely with the Human Resources team, the Labour Relations Specialist provides expert advice and will lead the development and implementation of policies pertaining to labour relations. Additionally, the Specialist will be responsible for overseeing the ACEH’s Occupational Health & Safety Program and Staff Wellness Initiatives.

**Employee and Labour Relations**:

- Plan, develop, implement and evaluate personnel and labour relations strategies including policies, programs and procedures to address the ACEH’s human resource requirements.
- Manage employee relations cases, including disputes, litigation, and regulatory investigations, ensuring alignment with the organization’s objectives and legal strategy.
- Represent ACEH in court proceedings, arbitrations, and mediations, providing expert guidance and support to ensure the organization’s interests are protected and advocated for effectively.
- Advise management during labour relations contract negotiations and develop informational briefings for enhanced understanding.
- Support collective bargaining procedures, including drafting, reviewing and modifying proposals, and ensuring compliance.
- Analyze current HR policies and procedures considering collective bargaining, ensuring legal compliance.
- Communicate with union representatives and internal stakeholders to resolve labour disputes.
- Conduct impartial investigations into employee complaints or grievances.
- Handle disciplinary actions, including investigations and terminations, in compliance with legislation.
- Assist management during crises, such as labour strikes, to facilitate negotiations and resolve issues promptly.
- Support organizational changes as per the new collective agreement.

**Occupational Health & Safety**:

- Manage WorkSafeBC Claims and related documentation for workplace injuries or incidents, facilitating timely resolution.
- Serve as a liaison between employees, management, and WorkSafeBC representatives.
- Lead the continued develop and improvement of Occupational Health & Safety policies, procedures and practices.
- Coordinate sick leave cases, develop reintegration plans, and supervise return-to-work processes in order to ensure a successful reintegration.

**Policy Development, Training & Wellness Initiatives**:

- Stay informed about changes in relevant labour codes and regulations, and provide updates to senior management team.
- Complete annual reporting including Compensation & Employee Turnover Report.
- Provide ongoing updates to Human Resources policies, procedures and practices from an Indigenous-lens.
- Identify and pursue funding opportunities for staff wellness and training initiatives, including proposal writing for capacity and professional development for leadership team.
- Develop and implement staff wellness initiatives.
- Develop and lead training sessions on topics such as workplace conduct, diversity, equity and inclusion.

**KNOWLEDGE, QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS**
- Expert in all relevant legislation including but not limited to Employment Standards Act, Labour Relations Code, Occupational Health & Safety Regulations.
- Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of UNDRIP principles.
- Demonstrated experience working with Indigenous communities and an awareness of local protocol.
- The minimum education required is a bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline (Human Resources Management, Law, etc.).
- Minimum 5 years of recent progressive experience in a mid to senior level Human Resources Role with a focus on Employee Relations.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, SharePoint) and Adobe.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, mediation, and problem-solving skills.
- Preference is given to those with experience working at non-profits.
- Preference to have a valid driver’s license and a working vehicle.

**The ACEH values strength in diversity. As an inclusive employer that