Associate Relations Partner

If you are looking to make an impact on a meaningful scale, come join us as we embrace the Power of One!

We strive to be an employer of choice and establish a reputation for being a talent rich organization where Associates can grow their career caring for others. For over a century, we’ve served the health care needs of the people of Memphis and the Mid-South.

The Associate Relations Partner consults on associate relations matters in support of associates and leaders across the MLH system. Fosters a healthy work environment aligning with our culture by resolving workplace conflicts and ensuring fair and consistent application of policies and procedures. Provides guidance and support to associates and leaders regarding issues such as performance management, accountability and corrective action, grievance processes and policy interpretation. Conducts effective, thorough, and objective investigations regarding associate concerns. Minimizes legal exposure for MLH from effective associate relations consultation and knowledge of employment laws, HR policies and high level of associate relations expertise. Models appropriate behavior as exemplified in MLH Mission, Vision and Values.

Working at MLH means carrying the mission forward of caring for our community and impacting the lives of patients in every way through compassion, a deliberate focus on service expectations and a consistent thriving for excellence.

A Brief Overview
The Associate Relations Partner consults on associate relations matters in support of associates and leaders across the MLH system. Fosters a healthy work environment aligning with our culture by resolving workplace conflicts and ensuring fair and consistent application of policies and procedures. Provides guidance and support to associates and leaders regarding issues such as performance management, accountability and corrective action, grievance processes and policy interpretation. Conducts effective, thorough, and objective investigations regarding associate concerns. Minimizes legal exposure for MLH from effective associate relations consultation and knowledge of employment laws, HR policies and high level of associate relations expertise. Models appropriate behavior as exemplified in MLH Mission, Vision and Values.

What you will do

• Advises associates and leaders regarding performance management, accountability and corrective action, performance improvement plans, grievance procedures and other associate relations matters.
• Interprets policies and counsels on responsibilities and rights of MLH associates; proactively identifies, manages, and aids the equitable resolution of job-related complaints and concerns.
• Conducts effective, thorough, and objective investigations ensuring due process. Summarizes conclusions and recommends course of action consistent with MLH practices and ensuring legal compliance.
• Documents decisions in keeping with best practices and to reduce risk in associate relations situations.
• Engages in the interactive process with Associates and leaders to review requests for accommodation for leave, disability, and Workers Compensation issues, ensuring guidelines are administered appropriately.
• Ensures efficient and effective resolution of associate complaints, workplace conflicts and other associate relations matters.
• Applies leading practice associate relations concepts, policies, and procedures to promote a positive associate experience.
• Develops, maintains, and delivers effective communication to managers and associates. Identifies and recommends strategies to address current and future associate relations needs.
• Assists in the preparation of required and supporting documentation for: unemployment claims, conflict resolution claims, federal and state agency claims and employment related litigation.
• Maintains accurate and timely case documentation by documenting findings in case management system.
• Facilitates training to associates and leaders on HR policies and compliance matters.
• Partnership in measuring, assessing, and improving the effectiveness and efficiency of associate relations services.
• Assists with internal audits of associate relations issues and makes recommendations to resolve issues in accordance with policies, practices, and procedures.
• Recommends changes to policies and practices to respond to regulatory, environmental changes, and changes due to advancements in Human Resources.
• Partners with HRBPs to understand the business direction based on current MLH policies and procedures.

Education/Formal Training Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree Human Resources

Work Experience Requirements

• 5-7 years Six (6) years of experience in lieu of degree
• 1-3 years Human Resources Must have at least two (2) years
• Conducting computer application or other technical training in a professional environment in the healthcare industry
• Experience working in a complex organization.
• Executive consulting Experience in a consulting type role, showing the ability to objectively assess and influence outcomes.

Licenses and Certifications Requirements

• Preferred: SHRM (CP or SCP)
• Preferred: ASHHRA (CHHR),
• Preferred: HRCI (PHR or SPHR)

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Excellent interpersonal skills, with emphasis on listening and communicating clearly and succinctly.
• Ability to utilize logic and analytic discipline to solve difficult problems and identify viable solutions.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with all levels of Associates and managers, possibly in an adversarial setting.
• Ability to influence others and exhibit leadership to address challenging issues with stakeholders.
• Knowledge of governmental rules and regulations affecting the associate/employer relationship and have demonstrated ability in conflict resolution.
• Knowledge of Title VII, FMLA, FLSA, ADEA, ADA, OWBPA, USERRA, etc.
• Possesses and applies a broad knowledge of employee relations principles, practices, and procedures of field to completing moderately difficult assignments.
• Strong technical knowledge.
• Solid knowledge of laws, regulations and best practices related to Human Resources
• Strong research, analysis, problem-solving, decision-making skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to set priorities, coordinate multiple tasks, organize tasks, and maintain control of workflow.
• Ability to make decisions guided by policies, practices, procedures, and business plan

Supervision Provided by this Position

• There are no supervisory or lead responsibilities assigned to this job.

Physical Demands

• The physical activities of this position may include climbing, pushing, standing, hearing, walking, reaching, grasping, kneeling, stooping, and repetitive motion.
• Must have good balance and coordination.
• The physical requirements of this position are light work - exerting up to 25 lbs. of force occasionally and/or up to 10 lbs. of force frequently.
• The Associate is required to have close visual acuity to perform an activity, such as preparing and analyzing data and figures; transcribing; viewing a computer terminal; or extensive reading.
• The conditions to which the Associate will be subject in this position: The Associate is not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions; job functions are typically performed under conditions such as those found in general office or administrative work.

Our Associates are passionate about what they do, the service they provide and the patients they serve. We value family, team and a Power of One culture that requires commitment to the highest standards of care and unity.

Boasting one of the South's largest medical centers, Memphis blends a friendly community, a thriving and growing downtown, and a low cost of living. We see each day as a new opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the people in our community.