Manager Employee Relations & HR Compliance - HR Employee Relations & Compliance - Akron FirstEn

Manager Employee Relations & HR Compliance - Akron First Energy Headquarters

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We are a forward-thinking electric utility powered by a diverse team of employees committed to making customers’ lives brighter, the environment better and our communities stronger. First Energy (NYSE: FE) is dedicated to integrity, safety, reliability and operational excellence. Headquartered in Akron, Ohio, First Energy includes one of the nation's largest investor‑owned electric systems, more than 24,000 miles of transmission lines that connect the Midwest and Mid‑Atlantic regions, and a regulated generating fleet with a total capacity of more than 3,500 megawatts.

Preferred work location is Akron, OH. This is an open position with First Energy Service Company, a subsidiary of First Energy Corp.

We are seeking an experienced HR Employee Relations Manager to join our team. This role provides strategic leadership for employee relations and HR compliance across a multi‑state electric utility with 15 unions. The position oversees HR policies, procedures, and compliance programs, manages employee concerns, and provides HR generalist support for Shared Services employees. The ideal candidate will have strong labor relations experience, deep knowledge of employment law, and a proven ability to lead with data‑driven insights and strategic HR solutions that align with organizational goals and deliver measurable results.

• Provide strategic leadership for employee relations and HR compliance across a multi‑state utility, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and legal requirements.
• Direct organizational performance management strategy, including coaching, counseling, and performance improvement plans, while guiding leaders to drive accountability and results.
• Oversee discipline panel processes, applying sound judgment to determine appropriate actions for substantiated misconduct and ensuring fairness, timeliness, and compliance with employment laws.
• Lead HR representatives and oversee core HR processes, identifying gaps through data analysis and recommending improvements to enhance consistency and efficiency.
• Develop and maintain HR policies, procedures, and employee handbook, ensuring compliance and clarity across the organization.
• Manage HR compliance programs, including EEO, ADA, affirmative action, background checks, harassment training, and government reporting (EEO‑1, VETS‑4212).
• Analyze HR metrics and trends to inform decision‑making and drive continuous improvement in employee relations and compliance programs.
• Partner with leadership to improve working relationships, build morale, and support retention strategies through proactive HR solutions.
• Support Diversity, Equity & Inclusion initiatives and ensure integration into HR practices and policies.
• Engage in business continuity planning related to workforce needs and HR processes.
• Ensure equitable and compliant HR practices by overseeing pay equity reviews, promotion processes, and providing guidance on benefits and absence management inquiries.

• Education:
  
  Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Business Administration, or related field (master’s preferred).
• Experience:
  • 7+ years of progressive HR experience, including employee relations and compliance.
  • Experience in unionized environments; familiarity with labor agreements and negotiations.
  • Multi‑state HR compliance experience preferred.
• Skills:
  • Strong knowledge of employment laws and regulations (EEO, ADA, FMLA, etc.).
  • Excellent communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
  • Ability to manage complex investigations and provide sound recommendations.
  • Proficiency in HRIS systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
  • High level of discretion and professionalism.

• SHRM‑SCP or SHRM‑CP
• SPHR or PHR
• CEBS (Certified Employee Benefits Specialist)
• CHRC (Certified Human Resources Compliance Professional)
• Labor Relations Certification

At First Energy, employees are key to our success. We…