Company Overview

About the Fielmann Group:

The Fielmann Group is a highly successful German family business with a market value of 2.5 billion. It holds the distinction of being the third largest optical company worldwide, catering to 28 million customers through its omnichannel platform, which includes digital sales channels and approximately 1,000 retail stores. Established in 1972, the company is led by Marc Fielmann, representing the second generation of the Fielmann Family, who still holds the majority of the company's stock. By offering fashionable eyewear at affordable prices and prioritizing customer satisfaction, the Fielmann Group consistently achieves customer retention rates of over 90% and employs around 23,000 people worldwide. As the market leader in Central Europe and one of the largest optical companies globally, we operate stores and online shops under our own name, as well as under brands like Optika Clarus in Slovenia, Óptica & Audiología Universitaria and Medical Óptica Audición in Spain, and SVS Vision and Befitting in the USA.

The Fielmann Group entered the us market by acquiring SVS Vision, a multistate optical retailer with over 80 stores headquartered in Mt. Clemens, MI. Additionally, Fielmann acquired Befitting, a technology provider and online optical retailer dedicated to making eyewear shopping enjoyable and hassle-free for customers with vision insurance. The newly formed Fielmann USA Inc. is embarking on a journey that will redefine the expectations of eyecare and eyewear for US consumers.

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced and skilled Employee Relations Specialist to join our team. As an Employee Relations Specialist, you will play a vital role in maintaining positive employee relations and fostering a productive work environment in our manufacturing, corporate and retail offices. This position requires expertise in dealing with union organizations as we currently work with three separate unions, Teamsters 243, Teamsters 406 and UAW.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for employee relations matters, providing guidance and support to employees and management regarding workplace policies, procedures, and conflict resolution.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with union representatives, ensuring effective communication and collaboration between the company and the unions.
• Stay updated on labor laws, collective bargaining agreements, and industry best practices related to employee relations and union matters.
• Conduct investigations into employee complaints, grievances, and disciplinary issues, ensuring a fair and unbiased process.
• Provide guidance and support to managers and supervisors in handling employee performance issues, including coaching, counseling, and performance improvement plans.
• Collaborate with HR and legal teams to ensure compliance with labor laws, regulations, and collective bargaining agreements.
• Facilitate labor contract negotiations and participate in grievance resolution processes, representing the company's interests while maintaining positive relationships with union representatives.
• Develop and deliver training programs on employee relations topics, including conflict resolution, effective communication, and union-related matters.
• Analyze employee relations data and metrics to identify trends, develop insights, and make recommendations for continuous improvement.
• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices in employee relations and union management, proactively identifying opportunities to enhance our employee relations strategies and practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in human resources, industrial relations, or a related field; advanced degree or certification in employee relations or labor relations is a plus.
• Extensive experience in employee relations, including working with union organizations in a manufacturing and corporate environment.
• In-depth knowledge of labor laws, regulations, and collective bargaining agreements.
• Strong understanding of employee relations principles, conflict resolution techniques, and best practices.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport and effectively communicate with employees, managers, and union representatives.
• Strong negotiation and problem-solving skills, with the ability to navigate complex employee relations issues and reach mutually beneficial resolutions.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct fair and thorough investigations into employee complaints and grievances.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and HRIS systems.
• Strong ethical standards and a commitment to maintaining confidentiality and professionalism.

Join our dynamic team as an Employee Relations Specialist and contribute to fostering a positive work environment while maintaining effective relationships with unions. Apply now to be part of our organization's commitment to employee satisfaction and success.