Are you ready to take flight in a dynamic and fast-paced aviation industry? As a global leader in aviation services, Swissport provides Ground Handling, Cargo Handling, and Passenger Services to over 300 million passengers annually. Our mission is simple – “To provide the aviation industry with consistent and tailor-made solutions around the globe, for a better customer experience.” 

We believe that our people are what differentiates us from our competition. At Swissport, we are driven by our core values of Show You Care, Do the Right Things and Win as a Team, and we are currently seeking dedicated individuals, who align with these values, to join our team at various locations across the globe.  

Job Summary

The Director, Associate & Labor Relations, is responsible for the management and execution of the labor and associate relations programs for the Company. This role provides recommendations and solutions to HR colleagues and management staff at all levels of the organization, that enhances the relationships between associates, management, and labor unions at the Company. Provides hands on experience in union and non-union environments, in leading contract negotiations, investigations, conflict resolution, positive employee relations and grievance handling.

The expected pay rate for this position is $150k/annually.

Full-time employees are offered a range of health and wellness benefits as well as 401(k) with company match paid vacation time, sick time, and company paid holidays. This role will be a remote work role with significant travel to business locations across the United States/North America.

Your activities

• Collective Bargaining: Act as lead negotiator in the collective bargaining process. Uses appropriate negotiation strategies to develop bargaining goals and negotiate contracts consistent with the Company’s goals.
• CBA Administration: Manages administration of labor contracts; provides interpretation of labor contracts to managers, employees and HR staff; oversees processes for review and resolution of employee grievances.
• Labor Relations: Establish and maintain positive labor relations, ensuring minimal disruption to operations.
• Subject Matter Expert (SME): Serve as an SME for the organization on labor laws, FMLA, ADA, Title VII, FLSA, etc. addressing inquiries and guiding the organization on policies and procedures.
• Training and Development: Coordinate and conduct training sessions on labor and associate relations matters while ensuring consistency across the organization. Also, builds the capability within the HR team to support labor relations within their respective areas.
• Grievance Resolution: Hear and intercede on grievances, track their progress, and identify opportunities to resolve without negative impact to business.
• Campaigns: Lead efforts to assess and address workplace issues that could potentially lead to unionization. Develop a campaign plan that includes organizing activities, communication strategies, and responses to union tactics.
• Investigations: Conduct thorough investigations into associate relations matters, including Open Door and SpeakUp, taking corrective actions in response to raised issues and ensuring fair and objective outcomes.
• Workplace Culture and Environment: Evaluate and recommend improvements to the workplace culture and environment at stations, providing feedback to station leadership.
• Employee Separation: Assess employee separation recommendations for compliance with federal, state, and local laws, acting as the decision-maker when necessary.
• Termination Appeal Processes: Lead Termination Appeal processes and uphold standards to foster an Employer of Choice culture.
• Legal Compliance: Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws, staying updated on changes and advising on necessary adjustments.

Your profile

• Bachelors degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Labor Relations, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in labor relations, with experience in both union and non-union environments
• Proven experience in leading contract negotiations, investigations, conflict resolution, positive employee relations, and grievance handling
• 3+ years of 1st chair negotiation experience
• In-depth knowledge of labor laws, including FMLA, ADA, Title VII, FLSA, and other applicable laws
• Strong understanding of collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) and their administration
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with associates, management, and labor unions
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Skills

• Collective bargaining negotiations
• CBA administration
• Labor relations
• SME in labor laws
• Training and development
• Grievance resolution
• Campaign management
• Investigations
• Workplace culture and environment evaluation
• Employee separation assessment
• Termination appeal processes
• Legal compliance

In addition to the above, the ideal candidate will have the following:

• Experience in a fast-paced, customer-service oriented environment
• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously
• Strong work ethic and commitment to excellence

What we offer

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

At Swissport, we believe in diversity, equal opportunity, and the power of our values to drive our success. We are committed to providing a workplace that fosters inclusion and where all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Visit our website at www.careers.swissport.com to learn more about Life at Swissport.

Join Swissport today and be part of a team that connects the world of aviation!