Director of Employee Relations

Overview

At RPM, we’re in the business of extraordinary. We believe people-first is the way to success which is why we provide top industry pay, comprehensive benefits, and a path of upward mobility via career training and education. Join us and start your extraordinary journey today.

Purpose Statement: To foster a people-first culture where associates feel valued, heard, and empowered. HR leads with integrity and care, promoting fair, inclusive practices and providing tools, guidance, and focus on attracting, developing, and retaining talent. As stewards of growth and talent, we fuel the associate experience and enable operational excellence, creating environments and partnerships people want to be part of.

Position Summary

The Director of Employee Relations is responsible for managing and overseeing the employee relations functions of the company. The Director of Employee Relations will develop and implement policies and programs to ensure a positive work environment, resolve employee conflicts, and ensure compliance with labor laws and regulations. This role requires a strategic thinker with a strong background in employee relations, conflict resolution, and team leadership.

Responsibilities

• Partner closely with the Director of HR, HR Business Partners, senior leadership, and legal counsel to align ER strategy with organizational goals while mitigating business and legal risk.
• Lead the design, implementation, and ongoing audit of employee relations policies, procedures, and handbook guidelines to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local labor laws and regulations.
• Lead the formal interactive process under the ADA and oversee complex FMLA and regulatory/leave of absence scenarios—evaluating reasonable accommodations, managing extended absences, and ensuring compliant return-to-work or reassignment strategies.
• Oversee and resolve high-level employee relations issues, disputes, and performance concerns in a fair, consistent, and legally compliant manner.
• Track, analyze, and leverage key ER performance indicators (KPIs) and exit data to identify organizational trends, proactively address systemic workplace issues, and provide actionable reporting to executive leadership.
• Act as the primary liaison with Director of HR Compliance and internal/external legal counsel regarding employment claims, agency charges (e.g., EEOC, state labor boards), and complex employment risk assessments.
• Develop and deliver targeted training programs for managers and leaders on ER best practices, conflict resolution, progressive discipline, lawful workplace conduct, and performance management.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field. An MBA is preferred.
• Professional certifications such as PHR, SPHR, or SHRM-CP are highly desirable.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in employee relations or HR, with a track record of success in senior HR roles.
• Deep understanding of employee relations principles, practices, and regulations.
• Knowledge of conflict resolution, labor laws, and employee engagement.
• Proficiency in HR software and tools.
• Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing employee relations teams.
• Excellent strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong communication and presentation skills with the ability to convey complex employee relations information clearly
• High level of integrity and ethical standards.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Qualifications

Physical Requirements:

• May be required to sit or stand for extended periods of time
• Must be able to read documents, computer screens and data
• Must be able to hear and understand verbal communications in person and over the phone or computer
• May occasionally be required to lift or carry items such as files or office supplies weighing up to 20 pounds
• Must be able to operate a computer, keyboard, mouse and other office equipment

Work Environment:

• This is a hybrid role, requiring attendance in one of our corporate offices four days a week.
• The office is an open setting which may include bright lights, constant noises and distractions.

Company Information

Join RPM Living and experience exceptional benefits designed to enhance your life.

• Weekly pay for all associates working onsite at an apartment community
• Comprehensive healthcare coverage available for all full-time, regular associates
• Employer-paid employee assistance, mental health, and wellness programs
• Ancillary benefits including critical illness, hospital indemnity, and accident insurance
• 401(k) with robust company match
• Opportunities for professional development, career growth, and role-based learning plans
• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) and multiple Employee Resource Groups (ERG)
• Paid time off plus floating holidays and volunteer days
• Discounted Perks (Costco membership, movie tickets, health & wellness, entertainment & travel discounts)

Employment with RPM Living is contingent upon successful completion of a background check as local and federal state requires. A valid driver’s license is preferred; candidates without a license will be provided a liability waiver.

RPM Living participates in E-Verify. For more information, see the E-Verify Participation Poster and the Right to Work Poster.

RPM Living is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

If you need assistance to fully participate in our application or interview process, please reach out through our website here and select "Careers" in the "Choose a Topic" dropdown menu.