Executive Director, Employee and Labor Relations

About the role

The Executive Director, Employee and Labor Relations reports directly to the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) and is responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive labor relations strategy that supports the district's priorities.

Responsibilities

• Develops and implements a system-wide strategy for labor relations, employee rights and protections, and employee-employer relations aligned with the Superintendent’s priorities.
• Provides executive leadership and tactical oversight to the Department of Employee and Labor Relations, ensuring the effective management and standardized application of collective bargaining, contract administration, and workplace investigations.
• Collaborates with the General Counsel to ensure legal compliance, mitigate organizational risk, and provide expert guidance on complex employee matters.
• Serves as the chief strategist and lead negotiator for five (5) master agreements, fostering collaborative, transparent relationships with the district’s three (3) labor partners.
• Builds a high-performing team within the department and guides district leaders in the principled, consistent application of labor practices.
• Ensures that supervisors at all levels are equipped and held accountable for the consistent, principled application of labor practices.
• Works cross-functionally to build a culture of stability and fairness that reinforces a positive and legally sound employee experience.

Qualifications

Preferred qualifications include:

• Bachelor’s degree in labor relations, human resources, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in labor relations, preferably in a K-12 educational setting.
• Experience leading negotiations and conflict resolution.
• Strong understanding of federal and state labor laws and regulations.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.