Human Capital Employee Relations (Boston)

POSITION OVERVIEW

KKR is seeking an Employee Relations professional to join the Human Capital Team, based in its Boston office.  This individual will be responsible for managing complex employee relations matters with a focus on risk mitigation, employee engagement and compliance.  This individual will be part of a global team who will partner closely with Human Capital Business Partners, Talent Development, Benefits, and Legal and Compliance teams to provide guidance to leadership, managers, Human Capital team members and employees on employee matters, including best practices, conflict resolution, policy interpretation and internal investigations.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

 “Essential duties” are those that an individual must be able to perform with or without reasonable accommodations.

• Function as the subject matter expert on employee relations across the firm ensuring consistent, practical and compliant outcomes for escalated employee relations matters
• Conduct thorough and impartial internal investigations into complaints, grievances and policy violations, including preparing and reviewing documentation, interview notes and summary of findings, and preparing for and conducting witness interviews alongside legal counsel and/or Human Capital colleagues
• Investigate potential violations of policies and monitor and/or address employee behavior throughout the firm; ensure a consistent and fair approach firmwide
• Partner with legal counsel (internal and external) to ensure compliance with employment laws and regulations across global jurisdictions
• Advise managers and Human Capital colleagues on performance management, disciplinary actions, terminations and conflict resolution
• Coordinate with managers to develop performance improvement plans and work closely with managers and employees to provide support, direction and clear communication throughout processes
• Collaborate with the broader team to facilitate training for Human Capital, managers and employees
• Partner with the Benefits Team to navigate sensitive employee issues including accommodations and leave requests
• Ensure consistent awareness of current legal and regulatory requirements and organizational policies pertaining to employee matters
• Oversee escalated and complex employee relations matters and recommend appropriate employment action to maintain a productive and positive work environment
• Assist in the development and administration of projects, programs, procedures and guidelines aimed at aligning the workforce with strategic goals of the firm

QUALIFICATIONS

• 7+ years of progressive employee relations/human capital/legal experience, preferably in financial services or private equity
• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business or related field is highly desirable
• Expert-level understanding of HR policies and procedures, Federal and state employment laws, and compliance and reporting requirements
• Proven ability to navigate sensitive and complex issues with discretion and sound judgement
• Strong active listening skills
• Sound judgment and critical thinking skills
• Ability to resolve conflicts and diffuse employee related issues, concerns and situations
• Ability to quickly evaluate options and alternatives to decide on a plan of action
• Experience working in complex, dynamic organizations with multiple business groups and broad geographic reach
• Detail oriented with outstanding organizational skills, demonstrated ability to plan, schedule and work both independently and in teams
• Consultative and collaborative – ability to communicate (verbal/written) in a direct, concise manner, to interact with professionals at all levels and to effectively communicate with a wide variety of partners/stakeholders
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills– can develop trusted relationships with many constituents, build credibility quickly and partner effectively
• Ability to prioritize effectively and independently among competing demands in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent knowledge of Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Word and Office

The statements contained in this position description are not necessarily all-inclusive, additional duties may be assigned, and requirements may vary from time to time.