Senior Employee Relations Consultant - Human Resources

About Northern Trust As a global leader in innovative wealth management, asset servicing, asset management and banking services, Northern Trust (Nasdaq: NTRS) is proud to guide the world’s most successful individuals, families, corporations and institutions. Since 1889, we have aligned our efforts with our three guiding Principles That Endure: Service, Expertise, and Integrity. Together, they reflect the three cornerstones of business conduct which we strive to instill in our employees, whom we call partners, and to provide to our clients and the communities we serve worldwide. With more than 135 years of financial experience and over 24,000 partners, we serve the world’s most sophisticated clients using leading technology and exceptional service.

We are seeking an experienced Employee Relations professional to provide expert guidance and support on a broad range of complex employee relations matters. This role partners closely with managers, HR colleagues, Legal, and business stakeholders to ensure employee issues are managed effectively, consistently, and in line with company policies and applicable employment legislation. The successful candidate will act as a trusted advisor, leading sensitive workplace investigations, mitigating risk, and supporting the development of a positive and compliant employee relations environment.

Provide expert guidance to managers and HR partners on employee relations matters, including employee counselling, disciplinary processes, performance concerns, grievances, and terminations. Lead and manage complex and sensitive employee relations investigations, partnering with Legal where required. Interpret and advise on company policies, procedures, and employment legislation. Partner with business leaders and HR teams to identify and address employee relations risks and trends. Support the resolution of workplace issues through effective consultation, coaching, and problem solving. Develop recommendations and implement improvements to policies, practices, and procedures based on investigation outcomes and lessons learned. Collaborate with HR, Legal, Compliance, and business stakeholders to ensure consistent and compliant employee relations practices. Participate in HR and cross-functional projects aimed at enhancing employee experience, policy effectiveness, and organizational effectiveness. Analyze employee relations data and trends to identify opportunities for proactive intervention and continuous improvement. Act as a mentor and resource to less experienced HR and Employee Relations professionals. Lead employee relations initiatives and projects as required. Handle highly sensitive and confidential matters with professionalism and discretion. Knowledge & Experience Minimum of 10 years' experience in Employee Relations, Human Resources, Employment Law, or a related discipline. Extensive experience in Employee Relations, Human Resources, Employment Law, or a related field. Strong knowledge of employment legislation, employee relations practices, workplace investigations, and HR policies. Experience conducting complex workplace investigations and managing sensitive employee matters. Ability to provide balanced, risk-aware advice in a fast-paced business environment. Strong analytical, problem-solving, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills. Excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder management abilities. Ability to build credibility and trusted relationships across all levels of the organization. Valuable Competencies Employee relations expertise Workplace investigations Employment law and policy interpretation Coaching and influencing Risk assessment and mitigation Conflict resolution and negotiation Communication and stakeholder management Judgement and decision-making Problem solving and analytical thinking Collaboration and relationship building Integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality Continuous improvement mindset Work Authorization