Building the space between proven and possible, MDA Space is a trusted mission partner to the global space industry. A robotics, satellite systems and geointelligence pioneer with a 55-year+ story of world firsts and more than 450 missions, MDA Space is a global leader in communications satellites, Earth and space observation, and space exploration and infrastructure. The MDA Space team of more than 3,800 space experts in Canada, the US and the UK has the knowledge and know-how to turn an audacious customer vision into an achievable mission – bringing to bear a one-of-a-kind mix of experience, engineering excellence and wide-eyed wonder that’s been in our DNA since day one. For those who dream big and push boundaries on the ground and in the stars to change the world for the better, we’ll take you there. For more information, visit www.mda.space.

The Role:

The Senior Manager, Employee Relations (ER) plays a strategic role responsible for the end-to-end governance, policy development and execution of the Business Area ER framework. This role is pivotal in defining our collective bargaining agreement (CBA) strategy and ensures that all about negotiations are backed by rigorous financial analysis. By balancing hands-on case management with strategic planning, the Manager enables a high performing workplace in a manufacturing environment. The position works closely with and provides strategic advice to HR Business Partners (HRBPs), managers, and employees on matters such as interpretation of the CBA, grievance process, performance, workplace conduct, investigations, and managing collective bargaining processes.

Key Job Responsibilities:

• Strategy and CBA ownership:
  • Partner with HRBP to serve as lead project manager on collective bargaining strategy. Define negotiation mandates that align with long term business objectives
  • Utilize advanced analytical skills to perform cost-benefit analysis on compensation and benefits proposals. Model the financial impact of CBA changes to guide decision making
  • Establish frameworks for grievance mitigation and the strategic exercise of management rights. Lead strike preparedness and contingency planning.
• Policy Development & Governance
  • Own the development, implementation, and maintenance of all ER related policies and practices including investigations, discipline, performance improvement plans/progressive discipline, and terminations. Ensure consistent application across cases.
  • Team with HRBPs to lead and conduct employee relations investigations, including harassment, misconduct, whistleblower complaints, and union-related matters, and provide clear, practical recommendations to leaders.
• Execution and Risk Management
  • Lead complex or high-risk employee relations matters, including disciplinary actions, grievances, accommodations, investigations and terminations, and provide practical, risk-adjusted recommendations to senior leadership.
  • Act as a subject matter expert for HRBPs and senior leaders, providing coaching on complex labor laws and sensitive employee matters
  • Collaborate with internal and external employment legal counsel on employee relations matters to ensure appropriate risk management and legal compliance

Job Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in human resources, Industrial Relations, Law, or a related field.
• CHRP or CHRL designation or equivalent accreditation (asset)
• Strong knowledge of employment law, labour law, and collective bargaining within Ontario
• Knowledge and experience of US labour law is an asset.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive and confidential information.
• Strong coaching and counseling skills, with the ability to provide guidance and support to managers and employees.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and prioritize multiple tasks and projects.
• Willingness and ability to engage in occasional business travel.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in a similar industry (e.g. high-tech manufacturing, aerospace, or defense).
• Experience in matrixed organizations.

• Experience in high growth organizations requiring consistency and standardization

Successful candidates must obtain and hold security clearance at the reliability status level, and pass security assessment for the Controlled Goods Program (CGP) and ITAR.

MDA provides competitive compensation and benefits packages for its employees at all locations. As a team member of MDA, you and your qualified dependents are eligible to participate in a benefit plan that ensures a comprehensive level of protection through competitive health care including extended healthcare and flexible drug plans, dental and vision benefits, disability income protection, life insurance, group retirement savings plans; and an employee and family assistance program.

MDA is an equal opportunity employer prizing diversity and inclusion. We are committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity. If you require assistance and/or reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please feel free to notify us.

The compensation range for this position is $125,000-160,000 annually. The specific compensation offered will be based on the qualifications and experience of the successful candidate.