Employee Relations Manager

MLGW is the nations largest three-service municipal utility, serving over 440,000 customers representing diverse backgrounds. Since 1939, MLGW has met the utility needs of Memphis and Shelby County residents by delivering reliable and affordable electricity, natural gas, and water service. We provide a full range of customer-oriented services, including a major role in the economic development for our customers.

MLGW recognizes that our greatest assets are our employees and value diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are committed to providing opportunities for career growth, training, and development. MLGW offers competitive benefits including PTO, pension and 457B retirement plan. We are dedicated to corporate social responsibility through community volunteerism and giving.

MLGW is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. No information obtained in this application is intended to be used for such discrimination.

JOB PURPOSE :
Manager, Employee Relations leads the development, implementation, and oversight of fair, consistent, and compliant employee relations practices across the organization. This role partners with leadership and HR teams to align people practices with business goals, strengthen the employee experience, and operational support to align with organizational priorities. It oversees employee programs, HR policies, and workplace investigations while ensuring compliance with employment laws, internal policies, and best practices.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS :
Lead and manage the Employee Relations team to ensure fair, consistent, and compliant practices across all activities. Oversee the resolution of employee issues, including conflicts, disputes, and disciplinary matters, with fairness, consistency, and follow-through. Oversee and conduct investigations and disciplinary actions, ensuring timely, effective handling of cases and escalation of significant issues to the HR Director and CHRO as needed. Lead employee investigations, including harassment, discrimination, and workplace conduct matters, while ensuring confidentiality, impartiality, and recommendation corrective action to ensure consistency, equity, and compliance. Partner with other HR teams, leaders, and employees to ensure fair, and consistent implementation of HR policies. Manage the drug and alcohol testing program, ensuring regulatory compliance, vendor coordination, confidentiality, and ongoing improvement. Lead the Personnel Review Board and manage HB1 cases in partnership with legal counsel to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal laws. Oversee the company store and support employee engagement through surveys, activities, and improvement initiatives that enhance the employee experience. Develop and analyze employee relations metrics and trends, including investigations, discipline, and engagement, to identify opportunities for continuous improvement. Coach and advise leaders on progressive discipline, performance management, documentation, and termination decisions to ensure fair and consistent application across the organization. Perform other duties as assigned.

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS
A valid driver's license from state of residence is required.

EDUCATION
Bachelors degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Psychology, or a related field is required. Master's degree preferred.

EXPERIENCE
Must have 6 years professional related experience in Employee Relations or Human Resources including two years of supervisory experience is required.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Must successfully complete NIMS training within one (1) year of entering the job. Work in office the majority of time. Subject to normal office conditions. Physical Demands: Requires sedentary work involving standing or walking for brief periods, exerting up to 20 pounds of force on a regular basis. Occasional kneeling, lifting, pushing, reaching and frequent standing and repetitive motions. Must demonstrate knowledge of employment laws, regulatory requirements, and Human Resources best practices. Proven ability to lead and conduct complex employee relations investigations, exercise sound judgment, and deliver fair, well-supported recommendations. Proficiency in HR case management systems and the Microsoft Office Suite.

THIS LIST OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS IS NOT EXHAUSTIVE AND MAY BE SUPPLEMENTED AS NECESSARY.