Senior Legal Counsel - Labour Law

LEGAL & LABOUR RELATIONS CONSULTANT (EXCLUDED) HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT

Legal & Labour Relations Consultant

This position is only open to those legally entitled to work in Canada and are residents of the Province of BC.

About Us: The BCGEU is one of the largest and most diverse unions in British Columbia with over 90,000 members in 550 bargaining units in the public and private sector. We trace our beginnings back to the early 1900s when provincial government employees formed an association to address their working conditions. Collective bargaining rights are human rights.

We strive to eliminate barriers to members’ involvement and inclusion in union activity. All people are entitled to enjoy human rights, political freedom, quality public services, democratic government, and a sustainable environment, in a just society. The BCGEU commits to social justice, equality, workplace safety, decent wages and working conditions. We will pursue social, economic, and political justice as those are the goals upon which the labour movement was founded.

BCGEU offers competitive salaries and an excellent benefits package. When employees go home at the end of the day, they experience the satisfaction of knowing they’ve helped provide justice and fairness for British Columbians.

The Senior Labour Relations Consultant will play a pivotal role in fostering positive labour relations within our organization. This individual will also design and implement policies and procedures that align with collective agreements and applicable legislation, ensuring compliance and promoting organizational effectiveness. The ideal candidate will bring extensive experience in labour relations, a proven ability to navigate complex legal and organizational landscapes, and exceptional communication and leadership skills.

Represent the organization in all grievance and arbitration processes, including preparing cases, coordinating with legal counsel when required, and presenting before arbitrators.

Facilitates and advises on conflict resolution processes and legal proceedings, including those related to grievances, disputes, mediation, arbitrations, and investigations, as well as board, tribunal, and provincial court matters.

Negotiates resolutions and settlements, prepares formal documentations and ensuring the implementation of legal decisions

Prepare and present regular updates and reports to senior leadership on labour relations activities, risks, and outcomes.

Policy Development & Legal Compliance

Design, implement, and update HR policies and procedures to ensure alignment with collective agreements, legislative requirements, and organizational goals.

Monitor compliance with collective agreements and legislation, proactively identifying and addressing potential issues.

Carry out legal and other labour relations research, and advises on appropriate application to day-to-day labour relations activities, bargaining and initiatives.

Advisory & Training

Provide expert advice and guidance to managers and leaders on labour relations issues, including contract interpretation, discipline, performance management, and dispute resolution.

Develop and deliver training for managers and leaders on labour relations topics, including contract administration, conflict resolution, and effective communication with unionized employees.

Stay informed of emerging trends and changes in labour law, collective bargaining practices, and labour relations strategies to ensure organizational readiness and compliance.

Analyze and advise senior leadership on risks and opportunities related to labour relations activities and policies

Labour Relations Leadership & Capability Building

Mentor and support HR and labour relations team members, fostering skills development and building internal capacity.

Law degree (LLB or JD) with a focus on labour law, or equivalent relevant legal training, is preferred. Experience designing and implementing policies and procedures in alignment with collective agreements and relevant legislation.

Advanced knowledge of the concepts, theories, practices and techniques of labour relations, with emphasis on conflict resolution and related legal proceedings, collective bargaining, and collective agreement interpretation

Policy Development: Ability to design, implement, and communicate HR policies and procedures that align with collective agreements and relevant legislation.

Comprehensive understanding of labour legislation, employment standards, and legal precedents that impact unionized workplaces.

Organizational Skills: Ability to manage multiple initiatives and deadlines while maintaining a high level of accuracy and quality.

Expertise in managing sensitive issues, including providing advice to managers and leaders on labour relations matters to mitigate risks and resolve disputes effectively.

At BCGEU, we're committed to providing a healthy, safe and inclusive workplace where respect and diversity are recognized assets. We invite and welcome applications from women, visible minorities, Indigenous Peoples, People with Disabilities and Disabled People, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, and all people committed to meaningful work that makes a difference.