Do you want to be part of a district that is doing transformative work to ensure that every student graduates ready for college, career and community?
Do you want to join a team that is championing better experiences & outcomes for students of color?
Would you like to join a thriving urban school district that is committed to elevating you in your profession?

If so, the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) has much to offer you: a clear vision, a collaboratively-designed strategic framework, collaboration time, district support and excellent professional development opportunities.

Director of Employee Relations

Why You Should Work with MMSD!

The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) is committed to Becoming a Model School District by striving to provide an anti-racist, culturally responsive, and inclusive atmosphere. MMSD actively seeks and encourages women and candidates of color to apply.

We have a simple but bold vision - to ensure that every school is a thriving school, that prepares every student to graduate from high school ready for college, career and community. We welcome applicants who will actively contribute to our ongoing commitment to making MMSD a thriving, welcoming environment for all students, families and staff.

We firmly believe in and are here to create a work environment that is challenging and rewarding, while supporting employees in their career path. We strive to provide, encourage, grow and develop a talented workforce that better supports and represents the diversity of our student population.

About Our District

The Madison Metropolitan School District is the second largest school district in Wisconsin. The district serves a beautifully diverse population of more than 27,000 students. More than half are students of color. Almost half come from low income households. Nearly one third are English Language Learners, and more than 100 languages are represented in our schools. Madison schools are committed to making this district a place where every child thrives.

Position Purpose:
The employee relations director is responsible for coordinating and directing the District's employee relations programs and functions. This role has the primary responsibility for employee relations, performance management and administration of employee engagement and retention programs in accordance with the District's vision, values and goals. The Employee Relations Director will oversee the policies, procedures, and programs of the District's employee relations division, developing and improving programs related to employee morale and satisfaction.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Formulates and recommends program goals and objectives in all areas of employee relations
• Leads and facilitates the employee relations program and related functions
• Maintains, develops, recommends, and implements program objectives, policies, and procedures
• Develops and pursues new goals and objectives for improvement in areas of employee relations
• Maintains satisfactory employee relations through a variety of techniques such as quarterly meetings
• Oversees the development and implementation of employee relations activities, surveys and engagement/retention efforts
• Communicates with employees regarding employee relations concerns; provides guidance and recommendations for resolution of issues
• Counsels employees on concerns related to applicable Equal Employment Opportunity laws including Title VII, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, and other similar federal and state laws Refers complaints to the title IV Coordinator
• Assists managers and supervisors in understanding and implementing Board and Handbook policies related to performance, discipline, and related topics
• Acts as the HR representative in the Handbook review process
• Investigates problems such as working conditions, disciplinary actions, and supports labor relations division with supporting employee appeals and grievances
• Consults on guidance and recommendations for problem resolution to departmental and school leaders and individuals
• Prepares and presents required and special reports related to employee relations
• Oversees the evaluation process districtwide, reviews performance evaluations of all department employees and ensures the timely submission of all performance evaluations
• Effectively recommends hiring, promotion, termination, disciplinary and commendatory actions of all assigned personnel
• Develops, presents, and administers departmental budget
• Performs other related duties as assigned

Supervisory Responsibilities:

This position supervises and provides direction to staff in the employee relations division

• Trains, hires, and oversees the work of employee relations staff
• Supervises and directs the development of in-service employee training and recruitment
• Ensures compliance with human resource policies and procedures by staff
• Conducts performance evaluations that are timely and constructive.

Minimum Qualifications

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Excellent managerial skills and ability to evaluate the work of others.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret and communicate data.
• Knowledge of labor relations practices and legal requirements.(preferred)
• Knowledge of HR related federal, state and local laws and regulations.
• Thorough understanding of human resources and employee relations principles, practices, and procedures.
• Ability to develop and maintain positive relationships with employees,and the boards
• Ability to compile, research, and analyze information.
• Ability to compose and present comprehensive reports.
• Ability to acquire a thorough understanding of the organization's hierarchy, jobs, qualifications, compensation practices, and the administrative practices related to those factors.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in human resource management or related field.
• Five years experience in a human resources management role and three years employee relations experience in a union environment preferred.
• SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) or SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) credential(preferred).

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Ability to work in person and virtually
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at a time.
• Travel is primarily local during the business day, although some out-of-area and overnight travel may be expected.

Salary Range

101,225.25 - 120,568.50 Annual Salary