Sodexo are currently seeking a dynamic and highly experienced Employee & Industrial Relations leader. Australia is a key global market for Sodexo and the General Manager – Employee & Industrial Relations will play a critical role in supporting and driving employee engagement, labour efficiencies and legal compliance across the business.
This role reports to the HR Director – Australia and plays a vital role in partnering strategically with, and providing ER/IR guidance to, our leadership team (including site based) across our Australian business.
Job Scope:
A key focus of this role is to work hand in hand with our business leaders and HR team to ensure that all parties are aligned and working towards enabling a positive and safe workplace environment and compliance with employment law, regulations, relevant Awards and Enterprise Agreements
Requirements of the role will include but are not limited to:
Provide ER/IR leadership by
- Providing pragmatic and effective solutions and actions to address and resolve workplace issues, including disputes, grievances workplace incidents, to maintain a positive and productive safe, equitable and inclusive work environment
- Leading the enterprise bargaining processes including preparation, planning, engagement, and implementation. Ensuring the outcome is fair, compliant, and beneficial to both the company and its employees;
- Ensuring compliance with relevant industrial agreements and employment laws, providing guidance and oversight to management and HR teams;
- Fostering positive relationships between management, employees, and unions by promoting open communication and collaborative problem-solving;
- Supporting HRBPs in implementing employee relations initiatives and strategies that enhance workforce engagement, performance, and overall organizational effectiveness.
- Primary contact for client representatives in relation to employee and industrial relations issues, strategies, and challenges
- Represent the business in relevant Tribunals (and Courts, if necessary) regarding employee and industrial relations matters, and case management of significant projects and matters, as assigned.
- Provide SME leadership in the development and implementation of industrial relations strategies and plans.
- Work with the business development team to develop industrial relations solutions and documents for tenders, contracts and other opportunities
- Work closely with internal legal counsel on managing regulatory issues, audits and compliance measures.
- Managing, where required, complex workplace matters (investigations, inquiries, or disputes) and develop/oversee compliance programs.
