The Manitoba Teachers’ Society, as a union and professional organization, is dedicated to advancing and safeguarding the welfare of teachers, the status of the teaching profession, and the cause of public education in Manitoba. The Society represents approximately 16,000 Manitoba educators in 40 Local Associations across the province, with a staff of 80 professional and support personnel.
Director – Labour Relations
In reference to Labour Relations, the Society provides membership services in the form of assistance in grievance proceedings, legal support services related to issues that relate to the members’ jobs, and disciplinary proceedings initiated by the employer. The Director Labour Relations will oversee all grievances and arbitration proceedings.
The Manitoba Teachers’ Society invites applications for the position of Director Labour Relations, from collaborative, passionate leaders who are dedicated to advocating for the professional rights of teachers.
Based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and reporting directly to the Executive Director, the Director Labour Relations works as part of the Senior Management Team to implement the mission, goals and objects of the Society and provide leadership in operational planning, priorities, and management. This leader is a role model who supports a positive and collaborative culture focused on building strong teams that serve the membership. This position requires a high level of organizational leadership, managerial confidentiality, and professional judgment. The Director Labour Relations is expected to attend the workplace on a daily basis; flexible working arrangements may be available on request.
The successful candidate will provide decision-making support, strategic advice, and administrative oversight for matters pertaining to collective bargaining, arbitrations, grievances, involvement of legal counsel, and Local governance and structures. This position also provides leadership for internal policy and bylaw development and work and information flow within effective governance practices.
The Director, Labour Relations must foster positive relationships, maintain a healthy, productive workplace, and work with all departments and education partners to effectively advocate for the members of the Society. Applicants must have experience working in leadership roles; working in a unionized environment; managing conflict, risk, and change; and working with elected bodies. Candidates must also have knowledge of effective governance practices and the Manitoba educational system. They must also have a strong knowledge of collective agreements and collective bargaining, arbitration and grievance procedures, and employment legislation.
Education:
- Completion of post-secondary education in a related field
- Training in dispute resolution or labour/employment law would be considered an asset
Experience:
- Minimum of 7 years of experience in Labour Relations in a unionized environment
- Demonstrated experience or expertise in collective bargaining
- Expertise in facilitating the resolution of complaints and grievances.
- Managing, mentoring and supporting staff in a unionized environment
- Applying legal concepts using judgment and discretion
Skills:
- Ability to analyze situations and resolve tensions, conflicts, and differences of opinion with individuals and groups
- Ability to concurrently coordinate day-to-day operations, respond to emergent issues and meet deadlines
- Proven leadership skills and ability to successfully lead a department
- Analytical, problem-solving and effective presentation skills
- Strong commitment to equity and diversity, with proven skills in promoting a respectful and inclusive workplace environment
Preference will be given to candidates with experience in Governance.
Fluency in French would be considered an asset.
Terms and conditions of employment will be outlined within a Personal Services Agreement.
Start date to be determined.
Applications can be sent directly to Jessica Willis, Summit Search Group, by July 28th, 2024 by 4:00 p.m. at jessica.willis@summitsearchgroup.com.
Summit Search Group has a strong commitment to Diversity, Equality and Inclusion. We strive for continuous development, modeling, inclusive behaviors and proactively managing bias throughout our process.
Consideration is given to the appointment of people in such a manner as to reflect the diversity of Manitoba’s population. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply.