Manager of Labour Relations

Company Description
Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) is a 200-bed community hospital located on the traditional territory of the Three Fires Confederacy and serving Chatham and rural Kent, including Caldwell First Nation, Bkejwanong (Walpole Island First Nation), and Eelūnaapèewii Lahkèewiit (Delaware Nation). The organization provides equitable, high-quality care at its Chatham and Wallaceburg sites through collaboration with health and community partners. With a dedicated team of approximately 1,500 staff, 200 physicians, and 300 volunteers, CKHA is renowned for its compassionate care and inclusion. Recognized as one of Canada's Best Employers by Forbes in 2025, CKHA offers comprehensive programs and services with a focus on patient care, equity, and innovation. For more information, visit

Role Description
This is a full-time on-site role for a Manager of Labour Relations & Recruitment, located in Chatham, ON. The Manager will oversee and manage labor relations processes, including collective bargaining, grievance handling, and the interpretation of labor and employment laws. They will drive effective employee relations by addressing workplace concerns, implementing HR policies, and providing guidance to ensure a positive work environment. Additionally, the manager will oversee recruitment processes, collaborating with leadership to attract and retain top talent.

Essential Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Experience)
University degree with a specialization in Human Resources or Labour Relations
Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation is considered an asset.
3–5 years of labour relations experience in a large, multi-union, multi-location environment, coupled with recruitment experience, preferably in a healthcare setting.
3–5 years of experience in progressively responsible HR roles.
Strong knowledge of HR policies and procedures, Employment Standards Act, Ontario Labour Relations Act, Human Rights Code, Occupational Health & Safety Act, Pay Equity, WSIB, and other relevant employment legislation.
Experience participating in collective bargaining, preferably in a leadership role.
Proficiency in applying collective agreements, including grievance and arbitration processes.
Experience conducting in-depth internal investigations.
Skilled in addressing employee misconduct and coaching staff performance.
Knowledge and experience with attendance management systems, including application, execution, analysis, and related legislation.
Demonstrated satisfactory attendance record.

Essential Competencies (Personal Skills and Attributes)
Strong mediation and conflict resolution skills.
Ability to liaise effectively with union leadership and foster positive labour relations.
Skilled in diagnosing complex employee and labour relations issues and providing innovative solutions.
Ability to work collaboratively with individuals at all organizational levels.
Exceptional multitasking, prioritization, and problem-solving skills in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while contributing as a valuable team member.
Superior interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal), with the ability to present ideas clearly and effectively.
Strong organizational, time management, and analytical skills with attention to detail.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications; experience with HRIS systems is an asset.
High regard for confidentiality, tact, and discretion.
Positive attitude, team-oriented mindset, and sense of humor.
Commitment to Patient and Family Centred Care philosophy.
Demonstrated ability to foster a culture of safety.
Alignment with the Values Statement and Code of Conduct of Chatham-Kent Health Alliance.

Accountabilities (Major Responsibilities)
Serve as the primary interface with internal and external union representatives.
Participate in labour negotiations, disciplinary matters, terminations, grievance meetings, and arbitration hearings.
Participate in Joint Labour/Management Committees.
Interpret and administer multiple collective agreements.
Act as a mediator to resolve employee relations issues.
Conduct market research and analysis to support HR strategies.
Ensure effective recruitment and selection processes for qualified candidates.
Facilitate and oversee recruitment for union and non-union positions.
Implement innovative recruitment and retention strategies.
Assist in policy and process development.
Provide coaching and support to management in administering collective agreements, handling grievances, and addressing employee performance issues, including learning plans and progressive discipline.
Offer guidance and advocacy to employees to promote positive morale.
Assist Occupational Health Department with challenging return to work, workplace accommodation, and workplace injury matters.
Conduct in depth internal investigations
Lead the administration of the quarterly Attendance Support Program.
Provide expertise in applying, executing, and analyzing attendance programs in a unionized environment.
Investigate and resolve attendance-related issues.