Manager, Labour Relations

The BC Nurses' Union (BCNU) is a strong, dynamic voice for nurses and nursing in British Columbia, representing more than 48,000 members. BCNU provides collective agreement negotiation and support to its members, as well as professional and advocacy services in the field of research, clinical practice, leadership and education. As the voice of the nursing profession in the province, we advocate for nurses and patients to ensure safe, quality, public health care for all.

Job Title: Manager, Labour Relations

Excluded Full-Time

Reporting to: Director, Labour Relations

Starting: May 2025

Salary Range: $132,000 to $160,000

Posting Period: April 24 to May 3, 2025

SUMMARY

As part of the management team, the Manager, Labour Relations is accountable for supporting the setting and execution of the servicing plan for all union members with the Director, Labour Relations.

The scale of the responsibility requires the Manager to lead a team of staff who hold expertise within one or more functions of the Labour Relations department. The day-to-day management of Labour Relations staff is a primary responsibility, along with providing strategic input to the Director, Labour Relations.

SPECIFIC ACCOUNTABILITIES

This role is multifaceted, combining significant leadership and professional responsibilities:

Leadership:

• Responsible for the recruitment and retention of an engaged and high-quality Labour Relations team, and the provision of professional guidance, coaching, prioritization of work tasks, and ongoing performance feedback to this team.
• In collaboration with Coordinators, where applicable, assesses workloads and establishes effective assignments.
• Ensures proper training, development, and deployment of staff.
• Works with staff to develop and implement continuous improvements through performance reviews and disciplinary methods as required. Responsible for performance management, including discipline up to termination, hiring, and promotions in consultation with the Director.
• Represents management in grievances involving Labour Relations department staff.

Execution:

• Works with the Director in developing and implementing labour relations programs, practices, strategies, guidelines, and initiatives consistent with legislation, best practices, and BCNU's mission and policies.
• Remains current on trends and developments related to labour relations.
• Mentors Coordinators to resolve complex issues and ensures timely and effective delivery of service to members.

Project Management:

• Works independently or with the Director to manage projects with both internal and external participants.

Subject matter expertise:

• Represents BCNU on labour relations matters in a variety of forums including collective bargaining.
• Provides guidance and support in various areas including but not limited to disciplinary and non-disciplinary matters, investigations, complaints, collective agreement interpretation, application of relevant jurisprudence, workplace accommodations, and third-party hearings.

Strategy:

• Works with the Director and other senior leaders to develop external labour relations and servicing strategies which further the goals of the BCNU.
• Incorporates the principles of the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous People (UNDRIP) throughout their work.
• Promotes diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.

Data and reporting:

• Support the development and establishment of key initiatives, priorities, and appropriate reporting protocols for the department.
• Collects and analyzes information for workplace planning and organizational development purposes.

Budget and financial:

• At the direction of the Director, provides input into the labour relations and servicing budget.
• Implements and monitors individual team operating budgets.

Coverage for senior positions:

• Provide relief coverage for the duties of the Director, Labour Relations on a temporary, as required basis, as directed by either the Director or the Executive Director, Member Services.

Relationships:

• Builds and maintains appropriate, constructive working relationships with internal and external parties to enhance communication, share resources, and learn together.
• Contributes to a positive labour relations environment.

CANDIDATE QUALIFICATIONS

An equivalent combination of education and related experience may be considered.

Education and Professional Certifications

• Post-secondary education, preferably at a Master's level, in an approved Social Science, Industrial Relations, and/or Nursing program or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Specialized certifications in coaching, leadership, conflict resolution, and/or negotiation are assets.

Experience and Knowledge

• 5 to 7 years of progressive labour relations and advocacy experience in a unionized environment, preferably in the broader public sector or social service sector.

• Extensive knowledge of labour law, disability management, human rights, and healthcare sector issues.
• Demonstrated expertise in leading and managing high-performance teams.

• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in dealing with governments and their agencies.
• Solid understanding of the organization's policies and procedures.
• Experience executing multiple complex projects at the same time.
• Financial literacy; ability to manage budgets.

Key Competencies

• Demonstrated leadership skills and the ability to manage change.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and public relations skills; skill and comfort in working with conflict and diversity; and good judgement in navigating a political environment.
• The ability to work with internal and external parties in an inclusive, open, and collaborative manner.
• Excellent problem solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to participate in mediation and negotiation at an advanced level.
• Ability to develop, implement, and monitor operational plans; sound judgement is required to translate broad directives and strategies into specific plans and actionable items.
• Ability to effectively advocate on behalf of the membership.
• Proven organizational skills, ability to effectively prioritize and work under pressure.
• Willingness and ability to take responsibility for their team in the context of organizational risk.
• Willingness to travel, as required.

*External applicants may be considered.

Why BCNU?

BCNU values, respects and protects diversity. We take pride in representing a diverse membership and staff. We offer an inclusive and supportive workplace with opportunities for career development and professional advancement as well as a competitive compensation and benefits package.

If you are seeking an opportunity to join a passionate and committed team, we'd like to hear from you!