Employee Relations Manager, Human Resources

Kiva Confections (www.kivaconfections.com) is a world-class cannabis-infused edibles company in California, the largest cannabis market in the world. Kiva's line includes Kiva Chocolate Bars, Terra Bites, Petra Mints, Lost Farms Gummies & Chews, and Camino Gummies. Our products are crafted from premium ingredients and thoughtfully combined with California cannabis. Since our beginning in 2010, our goal has been to create confections that redefine what a cannabis confection ought to be. By applying art and science, we ensure a deliciously consistent experience.
We have high-reaching growth plans as the legal market and consumer adoption expand. Key growth initiatives include ambitious platform innovation, outstanding marketing, geographic expansion, strategic partnerships, and more. We are resourced for this spectacular growth and looking for great people to help take us to the next level.
Job Summary
Kiva's Employee Relations Manager will represent the HR Team as the primary contact for employees of Kiva while assisting with the administration and support of the department. Responsibilities will be within the scope of Employee Relations, Engagement, and Communications and will include those related to each area of the HR Team, including Talent Acquisition, Benefits Administration, Risk Management, Safety & Training. 

As Employee Relations Manager you will...

• Develop and foster open communication channels with all employee segments and provide a trusted, open-door environment
• Facilitate successful communication between management teams and employees that are  driven by employee satisfaction
• Be the primary communication facilitator between employees of various levels and duties to maintain effective and efficient problem investigation and resolution
• Monitor and resolve employee relations issues while making recommendations and policy suggestions to avoid the issue from repeating
• Maintain accurate and updated digital documentation and as needed investigative files for all employee issues and reported concerns including making recommendations for follow through and resolution
• Actively manage and interact with the employee base through engagement tools (Culture Amp), 1:1 interactions, and departmental meetings.
• Share a nuanced understanding of  HR policies, procedures, laws, standards or regulations and as needed to provide a factual and understandable overview of employee concerns and resolutions
• Listen to employees’ work-related concerns and assist in determining next steps, coordinating investigations, and recommending actions to be taken by managers
• Oversee the Onboarding and Orientation experience for new employees
• Continuously review and update Kiva’s new hire onboarding program
• Oversee and facilitate the performance management and review process, including two review cycles annually.
• Facilitate the ongoing evolution of and execution of new hire orientation
• Oversee the administration of employee engagement platforms and processes
• Manage employee recognition programs and events, including creating, updating, and administering employee recognition program cadence and content
• Lead and encourage participation in employee Committees
• Lead weekly EE relations calls and meetings inclusive of progress visibility and excellent communication.
• Develop strategic partnerships with local charities and give back opportunities

What we're looking for...

• Bachelor’s Degree from a 4-year college or university; or a minimum of two years related experience in an HR management role focused on employee relations and dispute resolution
• Fluency in English (reading/writing/speaking) is required; additional fluency in Spanish (reading/writing/speaking) is strongly preferred
• Practical understanding of Federal, State, and local labor laws and regulations
• Experience with UKG or similar HRIS is strongly preferred
• Ability to organize and manage multiple projects as well as juggle changing priorities while meeting deadlines
• Ability to work independently as well as collaborate with others
• Strong time management skills
• Excellent interpersonal and effective communication skills, both verbal and written
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Ability to think creatively to find practical solutions to complex issues
• Ability to effectively prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities
• Ability to effectively deal with employees from all departments and levels of management, some of whom will require high levels of patience, tact, and diplomacy, collect accurate information, and resolve conflict
• Ability to effectively present information and respond to employees from all departments and levels of management
• Excellent organizationa