Manager - Industrial Relations

Job Overview

The Manager of Industrial Relations is responsible for fostering positive and constructive relations between management, employees, and unions within the organization. This role requires a proactive approach to employee relations, labour law compliance, and dispute resolution to ensure smooth organizational operations.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Establish and sustain amicable, harmonious industrial relations across the company.
• Serve as the chief liaison between management, employees, and recognized trade unions regarding industrial relations issues.
• Engage with union leaders and committee members to address matters impacting employees and organizational performance.
• Resolve employee grievances and workplace concerns promptly and effectively.
• Advise line managers on employee and industrial relations practices and policies.
• Ensure strict adherence to labour legislation, company policies, and standing orders.

Labour Litigation and Legal Representation

• Prepare and evaluate responses to legal claims, complaints, and notices submitted to labour authorities.
• Officially represent the company in conciliation meetings with Labour Commissioners and Officers, as well as other statutory bodies.
• Handle cases involving labour and employment matters in courts, tribunals, and industrial relations forums.
• Coordinate with external legal experts and labour law consultants regarding ongoing cases and legal advice.
• Compile case briefs and supporting documents necessary for legal proceedings.
• Appear in hearings before courts, tribunals, and quasi-judicial authorities as required.

Disciplinary Process Management

• Administer disciplinary procedures in line with natural justice principles and relevant laws.
• Draft essential disciplinary documents such as show-cause notices, charge sheets, suspension orders, and warning letters.
• Conduct or manage internal disciplinary investigations and inquiries.
• Maintain thorough documentation and records of all disciplinary actions.
• Offer recommendations to management on appropriate disciplinary measures following inquiry results.

Stakeholder Coordination and Reporting

• Communicate and coordinate with government departments, labour regulators, legal advisors, and external agencies concerning industrial relations.
• Keep detailed and accurate records of disputes, legal cases, settlements, and disciplinary processes.
• Prepare and deliver regular management information system (MIS) reports and updates on industrial relations and legal matters.
• Analyze industrial relations patterns and advise on preventative strategies to reduce risk and enhance employee engagement.

Operational, Compliance, and Safety Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with company policies, labour laws, and statutory requirements.
• Advocate for Quality, Safety, Security, and Operational Excellence standards within the scope of responsibility.
• Support initiatives aimed at employee welfare, workforce stability, and operational effectiveness.

Educational Qualifications and Experience

• Graduate degree complemented by a Postgraduate Diploma in Personnel Management and Industrial Relations, a Law degree, MSW, or a Postgraduate Business Management degree specializing in Human Resource Management.
• At least five years of experience in human resources and industrial relations roles, including experience with employee relations, union negotiations, collective bargaining, and labour law adherence.
• Proven capability representing organizations before various labour authorities, courts, and tribunals.
• Experience managing disciplinary proceedings, domestic inquiries, and labour litigation is essential.
• Preference given to candidates with background in service industries, especially aviation, logistics, manufacturing, or other sectors with labour-intensive environments.

Attributes and Competencies

• Exemplifies integrity, honesty, and strong ethical standards.
• Demonstrates leadership qualities with a collaborative mindset.
• Maintains a people-focused approach with empathetic understanding.
• Displays maturity, open-mindedness, and balanced judgment in decision-making.
• Possesses excellent skills in building and influencing relationships.
• Has a strategic, long-term vision.
• Effectively manages diverse workforce groups and interpersonal dynamics.
• Shows resilience and adaptability within a fast-paced, changing environment.