University Prep Schools Employee Relations Manager

Job Summary

We continually seek out talented individuals to join the U Prep Crew and partner with us in supporting our educators and scholars as we all deliver on our mission. Read on if you are interested in being a part of this important work! University Prep Schools is seeking a dedicated, experienced, and proactive Employee Relations Specialist to join our HR crew. This role is crucial in fostering a positive work environment, managing employee relations issues, conducting thorough investigations, and ensuring compliance with employment laws and school policies. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in HR, excellent interpersonal skills, and a passion for supporting the well-being and development of our crew.

Key Responsibilities:

Employee Relations

• Serve as the primary point of contact for employee relations matters, providing guidance and support to staff and management.

• Investigate and resolve employee complaints and conflicts in a fair and timely manner

• Conduct exit interviews and analyze data to identify trends, recommend and implement improvements

Investigations

• Conduct thorough and impartial investigations into allegations of misconduct, discrimination, harassment, and other employee concerns

• Interview parties, gather and analyze evidence, and maintain detailed documentation of findings

• Provide clear, unbiased reports on investigation outcomes and recommend appropriate constructive actions to address issues

Policy Development and Implementation

• Develop, implement, and communicate HR policies and procedures that promote a positive work culture

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations

• Regularly update and maintain the employee handbook to reflect current policies, procedures, and best practices

Performance Management

• Assist in the development and implementation of effective and scalable performance management systems

• Coach and guide managers on performance-related issues, focusing on growth and development

• Facilitate performance review processes and provide guidance on creating and implementing meaningful employee development plans

Training and Development

• Develop and deliver training programs on topics such as conflict resolution, effective communication, and diversity and inclusion

• Collaborate with colleagues, schools and stakeholders to identify and address training needs

Compliance and Reporting

• Prepare and submit required reports, including EEO, OSHA, and other regulatory filings

• Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with HR policies and procedures

Employee Engagement

• Develop and implement initiatives to enhance employee engagement and retention

• Organize and support staff events and recognition programs

• Act as a liaison between staff and management to promote open communication and a positive work environment

Qualifications

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field

• Minimum 5 years of experience in employee relations or a similar HR role

• Strong knowledge of employment laws and regulations

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion

• Strong problem-solving and conflict resolution skills

• Experience in conducting thorough and impartial investigations

• Experience in a K-12 educational setting is preferred

• HR certification (e.g., PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP) is a plus