Associate Relations Specialist

Job Description

Job Description:

The AR Specialist will serve as the point of contact for AR case management for a dedicated segment client group[s]. In this role, they will coach and support Line Managers and P&O colleagues with the deployment of AR processes including [but not limited to] disciplinary, grievance, performance improvement and involuntary separation. They will resolve issues and address client needs to ensure situations are resolved fairly; objectively and in a manner that aligns with our 5 Principles and the Associate Concept.

What are we looking for?

• Ideally CIPD qualified and educated to degree level or equivalent.
• Significant experience working in Human Resources and ideally Employee Relations
• Strong communication, written and interpersonal skills; ability to work and communicate effectively with a wide range of individuals across all levels of the organization
• Strong understanding of UK employment law
• Ability to manage internal and external resources to mitigate risks to the Mars business and reputation
• Ability to handle and maintain confidential and sensitive information
• Strong consultancy and problem solving skills
• Strong conflict management skills
• Ability to work independently and own discrete areas of responsibility
• Solid experience in case management, including the use and development of case management and reporting systems.
• Confident in P&O data analytics and insight generation
• Team player with customer mindset and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to build trust and interface effectively and confidently with all levels of associates and LM’s .
• Experience of coaching managers on performance and conduct matters.
• Ability to handle and prioritize a high case load.

What will be your key responsibilities?

• Working with the AR Manager, provide advice and support to line managers; associates and P&O Business Partners on a range of AR issues including, but not limited to, performance improvement; conduct issues, grievances, sickness absence; flexible working requests and workplace concerns
• Ensure that AR investigations are conducted thoroughly; fairly and objectively and in a manner that aligns with our Five Principles; the Associate Concept and legislative requirements.
• Partner with and coach line managers on performance improvement process and documentation.
• Provide interpretation of AR policies and processes to LM’s and P&O BP’s. Make recommendations regarding policy enhancements and updates as required.
• Engage with AR Manager and AR Lead on complex, high risk situations for respective Sites/Client Groups.
• Ensure proper documentation and follow up.
• Work proactively with the AR Manager on case management levels relating to the segment[s] to ensure workloads are manageable and cases are responded to in a timely manner
• Participate in weekly case review meetings collaboratively with the rest of the UK/Ireland AR team to help with case management [volumes & distribution]; identify trends and initiate AAR’s as required
• Ensure accurate input into Service Now [SNOW] for case management as required
• Work in partnership with AR Manager to track and report on segment[s] AR trends proactively.
• Through the Service to Partnership model, and using AR data and insights, work collaboratively with P&O Business Partners to identify and drive required AR interventions.
• Develop the skill and capacity of line managers in the AR space to manage people issues effectively and independently. As required, create and deliver AR Capability programs for Line Managers and P&O Business Partners.
• Provide support as required to the AR Manager on any org change initiatives including org restructures; business transfers; changes to terms and conditions of employment etc
• Identify AR trends and best practice and partner with the AR Lead as required with appropriate actions
• Deliver against the AR Strategy and UK/Ireland Priority set – Participate in Local, Regional and Global AR projects as required.
• Assist with DSAR’s as required in collaboration with internal legal counsel; FeDs & Data Privacy teams
• Partner with Legal Counsel [internal & external] as required on employment issues
• Participate in segment SIM/SMART/LM Community calls/meetings as required

What can you expect from Mars?

• Work with over 130,000 diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.
• Join a purpose driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
• Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.
• An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.

Mars is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process because of a disability, it is available upon request. The company is pleased to provide such assistance, and no applicant will be penalized as a result of such a request.