Manager of Labor Relations

The Labor Relations Manager is responsible for developing, implementing, and managing labor relations strategies that support a productive, legally compliant, and collaborative workplace. This role partners closely with legal counsel and serves as a strategic advisor to leadership on union-related matters, including collective bargaining, grievance administration, labor law compliance, and strengthening our union relationships throughout North America.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop & execute labor relations strategies aligned with organizational goals.
• Serve as a primary liaison to our union partners.
• Foster positive labor-management relationships to promote collaboration and minimize disputes.
• Lead or support collective bargaining negotiations, including contract preparation, drafting proposals, compiling information and statistics, strategy development, and administration.
• Interpret contract terms & ensure consistent application.
• Monitor industry trends and benchmark agreements.
• Oversee grievance procedures, ensuring proper handling, documentation, and resolution.
• Manage arbitrations and administrative claims/hearings.
• Partner with legal counsel on complex labor disputes.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local labor laws.
• Conduct investigations related to labor relations issues.
• Provide guidance to managers on labor relations issues including discipline, performance management, and terminations.
• Develop and deliver relevant training.
• Maintain comprehensive records of all collective bargaining agreements and related documentation.
• Deploy & leverage technology to ensure high productivity within the function.
• Perform other duties, responsibilities, and special assignments as assigned.
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Labor Relations, Business Administration, or related field (required)
• Master’s degree or JD (preferred)
• 6+ years of experience in labor relations, employee relations, or employment law, or equivalent experience in an operational capacity within the tradeshow industry

Experience working in a unionized environment

• Strong negotiation, analytical and conflict resolution skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
• High level of trustworthiness, discretion, and professionalism
• Ability to organize/prioritize work, meet deadlines, work with minimal supervision/multiple interruptions
• The ideal candidate will receive on-the-job training commensurate with their level of experience
• Knowledge of labor laws and regulations
• Experience in collective bargaining and grievance procedures
• Strategic thinking and decision-making
• Ability to influence and advise senior leadership

Work Environment

• Remote and on-site work
• Ability to grasp, bend, lift, carry, and otherwise move items weighing up to 25 pounds
• Ability to stand, move, and work throughout job sites, including extensive walking, stair climbing, and/or working at a desk for extended periods during the workday
• 60% travel for negotiations, events, and/or hearings
• Will require extended hours during labor negotiations or critical issues
• Our team members are our family, so we help our team members care for their families. The rewards of joining GES are extensive. We offer a comprehensive benefits package to all full-time employees. Here are some of the highlights:
• Competitive salaries
• 401K with company match
• Healthcare/vision/dental insurance

Wellness benefits

• Career development program
• Employee assistance program
• Vacation time
• Community involvement opportunities

Team activities

And much more……