Industrial Relations Manager

About BAT and the Role

BAT is swiftly transforming into a global multi-category business with the vision to Build a Smokeless World. We are dedicated to creating a better future by embracing innovation and collaboration. To support this mission, we are seeking a skilled Industrial Relations Manager to join our Pakistan team at Akora Khattak.

Position Objective

Reporting to the Senior HR Business Partner - Supply Chain, this senior manager role focuses on shaping and executing Industrial Relations (IR) strategies to nurture a positive employee relations environment. The individual will maintain productive relationships with labor unions, provide labor law guidance, and advise on employee welfare, discipline, and grievances.

Key Accountabilities

• Serve as the primary contact for all matters related to Industrial Relations, including employee welfare and facilities management.
• Support HR Business Partner during Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) negotiations, contributing to outcomes that balance interests and incorporate agreed productivity targets.
• Keep management and labor unions informed about labor legislation trends and ensure timely compliance.
• Coordinate annual worker assessments and oversee internal training initiatives by collaborating with operational and departmental heads to assess training needs and strategize priorities.
• Organize educational sessions for line managers on labor laws and policies to ensure fair handling of employee concerns and procedural justice.
• Continuously educate CBA members about company plans, productivity initiatives, and future objectives.
• Utilize diverse recruitment channels (direct sourcing and agencies) and implement selection processes for workers and junior-level hires.
• Assist HR Business Partners by analyzing sourcing data like turnover and retention, recommending corrective actions as needed.

Experience and Skills

• Advanced degree preferably a Master's in Business Management with familiarity in contemporary HR principles.
• Strong administrative capabilities to manage dynamic challenges in a changing environment.
• Comprehensive business understanding to align goals with the company’s vision and strategy.
• High learning agility accompanied by thorough knowledge of labor laws and collective bargaining in industrial settings.
• Excellent interpersonal skills including influencing, communication, and negotiation to engage effectively at all organizational levels and external entities.
• Ability to provide prompt, accurate legal advice on labor matters and efficiently communicate between management and unions.
• Skilled in resolving grievances aligned with company policies and legal requirements.
• Proficient in educating union members on company objectives to facilitate goal achievement.
• Forecasting and executing recruitment plans with budget management skills.
• Multilingual capability is an advantage, with fluency in Pushto preferred.
• Minimum 5-6 years’ experience with collective bargaining and labor law expertise in an industrial context.

Employee Benefits

• Competitive annual performance bonus based on eligibility.
• Diverse benefits including health plans, work-life balance initiatives, transportation support, and a flexible holiday system with added incentives.
• Opportunities for internal career advancement aligned with personal aspirations.
• Access to online learning and customized leadership development programs.
• Commitment to continuous improvement in a transformative work environment.

Inclusion and Support

We are a globally recognized Top Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where individuals from all backgrounds thrive. We welcome professionals returning to work after career breaks and provide accommodations during recruitment for those who require them.

Join BAT to make a difference and realize your potential in a supportive and dynamic setting.