Employee Relations Lead - German C2

Company Description

At AstraZeneca, we make a difference every day by delivering life-changing medicines to millions of people globally. Our purpose is ambitious and so is our approach. Becoming a more agile and creative company means building an inspiring culture where we celebrate bold thinking. We are curious, creative, and open to new ideas.

We have had a presence in Germany for over 20 years and since then we have gone from strength to strength. Currently Germany is our biggest market in EUCAN region and ranks as our Top #4 largest market at AZ globally. So, join us and become part of an extraordinary place to work! This position is based in Hamburg, Germany.

Job Description

The role provides strategic advice to the Business and HR management on prioritizing and designing upcoming negotiation projects with works council committees, ensuring that fair, consistent and transparent employee relations processes are applied across AZ Germany. Special focus around supporting all AZ Germany collective agreement negotiations and consultations and in particular, the annual pay negotiations. The role is a key position in the Human Resources Department (HRLT member) and the job role has a direct input into the HR Strategy supporting the business objectives. 

This position requires German C2 and  full professional proficiency in English (spoken and written).

• Develop and Lead ER strategy & best practices in close cooperation with CP and VP HR  
• Proactively identify and bring new trends / best practices across other companies in Germany, on key topics that impact the engagement and performance of our workforce
• Interface to the local works council for Marketing Company
• Take proactive approach in strengthening Works Council partnership by acting on feedback to improve organizational health (engagement and performance) 
• Advise on key negotiations with Works Council (eg. RPD / Salary increase, Performance Development, etc). 
• Advise HRBPs and people managers on works council and co-determination issues. Dealing with all questions of co-determination and labor law (also: if necessary, representation in court and company agreements) 
• General labor law advise to HR Leadership and other management, preparing and conducting all forms of change processes that require individual or collective consultations 
• Contact person on behalf of the company, HR compliance investigations, whistleblowing cases follow up and remediation 
• HR Project Management with respect to restructuring, downsizing, integrations, divestitures, etc.
• Point of contact on HR Data Protection, Company health management (BGM, BEM), Occupational Safety Committee for marketing company  

Qualifications

Essential: 

• 10+ years' experience within Employee Relations. 
• Long-term vision combined with an action-oriented and hands-on approach. 
• Strong understanding of our business strategy and the ability to support transformation and change agenda. 
• Previous experience in leading others within ER and the capacity to influence and support managers at all levels within the organization on Employee Relations issues. 
• Significant Trade Union relationship management experience 
• Excellent German employment legislation knowledge and application experience 
• Change consultation skills and experience, as well as with dealing with complex employment issues within a collective bargaining environment. 
• Strong communication & negotiation skills. 
• Lead by example and with high integrity, as well as with vision. 
• Strong team player with an open mind, and a flexible mindset. 

Desirable: 

• Degree Level with employment law qualification 
• Deep understanding of pharma industry 
• Project management experience 
• Knowledge of pension funds 

Additional Information

You will join an innovative, entrepreneurial company that plays to win and put its clients first and creates an environment that enables people to reach their potential supporting a culture where everyone feels valued, included, and connected.