Labor Relations Manager

About The Role

We are looking for a Union Manager to lead labor relations at Suzano Packaging's Pine Bluff paperboard mill, serving as the company's primary representative with United Steelworkers (USW).

What You're Going To Do

• Serve as the primary point of contact with USW representatives at the local and district levels, building constructive, transparent labor-management relations.
• Lead collective bargaining negotiations and the administration of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, including renewals and contract interpretation.
• Manage the grievance process end-to-end, including investigation, written responses, and representation in arbitration proceedings.
• Ensure full compliance with NLRA, FLSA, FMLA, USERRA, OSHA, and Arkansas state labor regulations; partner with legal counsel on NLRB and litigation matters.
• Advise plant leadership and supervisors on labor relations issues, contract interpretation, and disciplinary procedures.
• Support change management, M&A integration, and operational excellence initiatives, anticipating and mitigating labor relations risks.
• Develop and execute long-term labor relations strategy aligned with business objectives and Suzano's growth in North America.
• Train managers and supervisors on labor law, contract provisions, and effective handling of employee relations matters.
• Track labor relations metrics, identify trends, and report status and recommendations to plant leadership and the CHRO.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation of negotiations, grievances, and labor relations activity to support compliance and legal defense.

What We Expect From You

• Bachelor's degree in Labor Relations, Industrial Relations, Human Resources, Business Administration, Law, or related field; Master's preferred.
• 10-20 years of progressive labor relations experience in manufacturing or industrial operations, including direct collective bargaining and arbitration experience on the company side.
• Substantial experience working with USW or comparable industrial unions strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated experience supporting M&A integration, plant transformation, or large-scale organizational change is a strong differentiator.
• Deep working knowledge of NLRA, FLSA, FMLA, USERRA, OSHA, and Arkansas labor regulations.
• Industry experience in paper, packaging, chemicals, or similar manufacturing sectors preferred.
• Availability to work fully on-site at the Pine Bluff industrial mill, ensuring close partnership with operational teams and union representatives.

Pay

We are pleased to offer an attractive compensation and benefits package for this role, which includes:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Multiple plan options with nationwide networks to support your physical health and preventive care.
• Life and AD&D Insurance: Company-paid basic coverage and optional plans to protect you and your loved ones.
• Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term coverage to help protect your income in case of illness or injury.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan: Automatic enrollment with a generous company match to help you plan for the future.
• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA): Tax-advantaged accounts with company contributions to help manage healthcare expenses.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Options for healthcare, limited-purpose, and dependent care expenses.
• Voluntary Benefits: Additional protection through accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity insurance.

Benefits

If we have piqued your interest, we look forward to receiving your application.