Job Title

Manager – Industrial RelationsLocation: TrivandrumScope:The Manager - Industrial Relations (IR) will be responsible for managing labor relations, negotiating with trade unions, ensuring compliance with labor laws, addressing grievances, resolving disputes, and handling legal cases to maintain industrial harmony. This role requires strong negotiation skills, expertise in labor laws, and experience in managing court cases related to labor disputes. Proficiency in the local language will be an added advantage.Key Responsibilities: 1. Industrial Relations & Union Management Build and maintain cordial relationships with labor unions, workmen, and employee representatives. Lead negotiations for collective bargaining agreements (CBAs), ensuring alignment with company policies. Handle union demands, disputes, and wage negotiations in collaboration with senior management. Develop strategies to prevent labor unrest, strikes, and work stoppages. Represent the organization in discussions with union leaders, labor officers, and industry forums.2. Labor Law Compliance & Legal Risk Management Ensure 100% compliance with labor laws such as the Factories Act, Industrial Disputes Act, Trade Unions Act, Minimum Wages Act, and Contract Labor (Regulation & Abolition) Act. Conduct periodic legal audits and ensure all statutory requirements are met. Implement policies and best practices to mitigate legal risks in labor matters. Stay updated on changes in labor laws and regulations, ensuring timely policy adaptations.3. Employee Grievance Handling & Disciplinary Actions Establish an effective grievance redressal mechanism for workers and staff. Address misconduct cases, disciplinary inquiries, and disputes, ensuring due process. Guide supervisors and managers on disciplinary actions and legal compliance.4. Managing Court Cases & Legal Disputes Represent the company in labor courts, industrial tribunals, and legal proceedings related to IR issues. Work closely with legal counsel to prepare and defend cases involving disputes, wrongful termination, and wage claims. Ensure timely resolution of labor cases and minimize legal liabilities. Maintain detailed records of court cases, arbitrations, settlements, and disciplinary actions.5. Stakeholder & Government Liaison Act as the primary point of contact for labor departments, inspectors, and legal authorities. Handle compliance inspections and government interactions professionally. Collaborate with external consultants and legal teams to handle complex labor issues.6. Workforce Engagement & Communication Implement employee communication programs to foster trust and transparency. Conduct awareness sessions on workplace rights, labor laws, and ethical work practices. Regularly engage with workers and supervisors to address concerns proactively.7. Employee Welfare & Well-being Initiatives Work with HR and management to enhance employee well-being, workplace safety, and engagement. Oversee contract labor management to ensure ethical practices and compliance. Support initiatives that improve working conditions, health, and safety at the plant.8. Policy Development & Risk Mitigation Develop and implement industrial relations policies in line with business and legal frameworks. Conduct risk assessments to identify potential IR challenges and devise mitigation strategies. Implement preventive mechanisms to avoid labor unrest or production disruptions.EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS Master’s degree in HR, Industrial Relations, Labor Law, or related fields. 10+ years of experience in IR, union negotiations, and labor law compliance in a manufacturing or pharmaceutical environment. Strong experience in handling labor unions, collective bargaining, and legal disputes. Expertise in labor laws, compliance, and disciplinary proceedings. Hands-on experience in handling labor court cases, disputes, and arbitration. Excellent negotiation, conflict resolution, and stakeholder management skills. Proficiency in the local language (Malayalam) will be an added advantage