Senior Labour Relations Consultant - Strategic Leader & Labour Relations

About the role

Reporting to the Manager, Employee & Labour Relations, the Senior Labour Relations Consultant is a dynamic strategic leader who drives proactive, high impact labour and employee relations across the organization. You will shape labour-management partnerships, lead complex conflict resolution, and deliver bargaining and grievance strategies that protect the organization's interests while strengthening a positive, inclusive workplace culture. What you'll lead Own end-to-end grievance and arbitration management for ONA, OPSEU, and SEIU bargaining units - from Step 2 escalation to mediation, arbitration and negotiated settlements. Lead investigations, prepare robust case positions, and represent the organization in mediations and arbitrations (in collaboration with external counsel) within delegated authority. Partner with HRBPs, operational leaders and Occupational Health to resolve workplace, attendance, accommodation and return-to-work issues before they escalate. Co-create and co-chair collective bargaining strategies and Labour‑Management Committee forums that advance sustainable agreements and constructive union relationships. Advise senior leaders on collective agreement interpretation, organizational policy, and employment legislation; translate risk into clear, executable mitigation strategies. Monitor labour relations trends and sector negotiations, turning intelligence into proactive recommendations that align with organizational strategy. Build and sustain collaborative, high‑trust relationships with union representatives, managers, legal counsel and other stakeholders to ensure consistent, principled application of labour relations practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's in HR, Labour/Industrial Relations, Business Administration or equivalent (Master's in Industrial Relations an asset).
• 5-7+ years progressive labour relations experience-healthcare or public sector experience strongly preferred.
• Proven track record managing grievances, mediations, arbitrations and collective bargaining with strong case-research and legal/jurisprudence acumen.
• Deep knowledge of labour and employment statutes (Labour Relations Act, Employment Standards, Human Rights Code, OHSA) and collective agreement administration.
• Exceptional negotiation, mediation and conflict-resolution skills with demonstrated ability to influence at all organizational levels.
• Strong coaching, facilitation, planning and analytical capabilities; comfortable managing competing priorities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel).
• Why this role matters
• Southlake Health is fully committed to a culture of belonging and an inclusive environment that encourages every team member to lead within their role, generate innovative ideas that reinforce our mission and goal to create a healthy workplace where our community can thrive.
• Regular and reliable attendance is an expected requirement of this position.
• Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• We prioritize a people-first workplace culture which emphasizes equity and inclusion throughout our hiring process. To ensure fairness and transparency, all applications are reviewed and assessed by our dedicated team of recruiters

Benefits

Additional Information

Job Category: Professional Hospital Location: Newmarket ON Job Type: Permanent, Full time Number of Positions: 1 Minimum - Maximum Hourly Rate: $57.51 - $68.36 Why Join Our Team? A people-first workplace environment that prioritizes belonging, wellness, and psychological safety. Hybrid, virtual, and in-person working environment (where applicable). Progressive health and dental benefit plans. HOOPP pension plan with employer and employee premium sharing. Enhanced wellness initiatives, including virtual fitness classes and on-site gym memberships. If you are ready to embrace this exciting challenge and contribute to the success of Southlake Health, we encourage you to apply and be part of our dedicated team, making a difference in the lives of our employees and the community we serve!

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