Vi Fineday Shelter provides safe shelter and housing for families that are unhoused. Vi Fineday is a unique family shelter which supports up to four families at a time. Services that are provided to families include support with finding permanent housing, 24-hour on-site staff, meals, referrals to community resources and access to tools including internet, phone and transit. 

Position Summary

The Employee Engagement Manager is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to enhance employee satisfaction, retention, and overall engagement within the workplace. The Employee Engagement Manager provides leadership and support to build a productive and supportive work environment for all levels within the organization (union/exempt) in the day-to-day operations of labour & employee relations, recruitment, training and development and HR administration.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and directly supervise 8 full time unionized staff.
• Oversee the hiring, onboarding/training, performance management & development of all employees.
• Lead the recruitment and termination functions of direct reports.
• Provide input and advice to the Executive Director on HR /LR policies, procedures & personnel matters, HR programming and strategic direction.
• Ensure HR processes are current and in line with HR/LR trends, organization operations, changes and HR requirements.
• Develop HR policies, programs and procedures that are creative and innovative but also meet collective agreement requirements.
• Educate staff on compensation and benefit plans and systems.
• Recommend solutions that align with parameters of collective agreements, human resource policies and all other legislative requirements.
• Responsible for addressing grievances up to and including arbitration.
• Oversee the coaching of employees and provide ongoing workplace support.
• Manage learning and development plans for staff.
• Attend and participate in relevant management, staff and committee meetings, and training.
• Oversee the health and safety programming for all staff.

Qualifications & Experience

• Post-Secondary Education (degree or diploma) in Human Resources or Industrial Relation, or equivalent work experience
• Progressive experience in a HR/LR role within a unionized environment.
• Experience in managing staff.
• Experience in a community based not-for-profit organization is an asset.
• Experience working in front line social delivery is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to lead, manage and develop staff.
• Ability to align with the VFFSS mission, vision, and core values.
• Significant understanding and knowledge of systemic barriers and oppression
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, including strong computer literacy in Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, Sharepoint, Outlook, etc.) and ADP/Ceridian
• Excellent interpersonal skills (de-briefing, active listening, conflict resolution, de-escalation, problem solving, supportive) is essential.
• Excellent understanding and experience in creating and maintaining boundaries and supporting staff in doing the same.
• Demonstrated ability to build a strong team environment with an inclusive, collaborative and supportive management approach.
• In-depth working knowledge of HR programs and services, applicable legislation and policies (Labour Relations Act, Employment Standards Act, Occupational Health & Safety and Human Rights Code) and HRIS.
• Understanding of the collective agreement requirements.
• Understanding of payroll processing requirements and how they interface with HR.

Core Competencies

• Demonstrates a respectful, non-judgmental and inclusive outlook at all times.
• Follows through on commitments and obligations.
• Works honestly and fairly with staff, colleagues, clients and other organizations with whom we work.
• Fosters open communications and communicates effectively.
• Plans and organizes time effectively and efficiently.
• Represents the Employer in a positive and professional manner.

Working Conditions

• Flexibility required for schedule and hours, must be flexible in responding to emergencies, including after hours, via phone or in person.
• Satisfactory Criminal Record Check
• Willing to attain Food Safe
• Willing to attain CPR/First Aid certification.