Director Labor Relations

Are you looking for an exciting job where you can put your skills and talents to work at a company you can feel proud to be a part of? Do you want a workplace that will challenge you and offer you opportunities to learn and grow? A position at Xcel Energy could be just what you're looking for.

Position Summary

Provides multi-jurisdictional strategic direction to officers, operating company and business area leadership concerning all matters related to labor, employee relations, policy interpretation, statutory and case law and discipline and PGR matters. In addition, provides corporate-wide vision and strategic planning to integrate both Corporate and operating company labor strategies. Primary responsibility for corporate compliance with all applicable state and federal regulations pertaining to labor and employee relations. As company spokesperson, is responsible for managing the relationship with all local unions in matters concerning collective bargaining, contract compliance, grievance and arbitration procedures. Manages the relationship between the Company and the National Labor Relations Board, including unfair labor practice (ULP) charges, organizing efforts and matters dealing with the National Labor Relations Board.

Essential Responsibilities

• Strategically aligns and partners with operating company and business area leadership as Company spokesperson in negotiations with local and international union representatives. Partner with operating company and business area leadership to develop innovative and cost-effective solutions to business problems and then negotiate the necessary agreements to achieve the business solution.
• Ensures alignment of broader HR strategies, processes and practices through effective partnership with HR Centers of Excellence, such as Total Rewards, Talent Acquisition, etc.
• Directs the Corporate responsibility for maintaining an effective and collaborative working relationship between international and local unions and Company leadership. Manages the relationship between the Company and union to provide for an interest based bargaining process that results in win-win solutions.
• Anticipates Labor Relations needs of operating company and business area, responding proactively, influencing and driving processes to create more efficient and effective processes. Directs and advises company leadership regarding interpretation and administration of collective bargaining agreements, letters of understanding, corporate policies, investigations and discipline.
• Provides expert testimony and research services on company policy, employment and labor law, bargaining agreements in processing grievances, ULP charges, arbitration and other litigation.
• Leadership of Workforce Relations overall operations, (i.e., employees, budget, work-flow, assignments, etc.).
• Influence and drive change management processes through using business acumen to guide coach and counsel senior management in effecting strategies for improvement of business results.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelors degree in Industrial Relations, Human Resources Management, Business Administration or equivalent education and/or experience. Advanced degree preferred.
• Ten or more years' experience in the workforce relations field, with five or more years of supervisory/management experience.
• In depth knowledge of Xcel Energy policies and programs, labor trends, federal, state and local employment laws to include NLRA, ADA, FMLA and Title VII.
• Demonstrated experience working with highly confidential/sensitive information.
• Proven communications/facilitation skills, including interaction with Officers and Senior Business Unit Leadership.
• Strong leadership, planning, organizational and strategic planning skills.

Preferred Requirements

• Proficiency in Microsoft PowerPoint for presentations and reporting.

Experience with Time & Attendance platforms and compliance processes.

As a leading combination electricity and natural gas energy company, Xcel Energy offers a comprehensive portfolio of energy-related products and services to 3.4 million electricity and 1.9 million natural gas customers across eight Western and Midwestern states. At Xcel Energy, we strive to be the preferred and trusted provider of the energy our customers need. If you're ready to be a part of something big, we invite you to join our team.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Individuals with a disability who need an accommodation to apply please contact us at

Non-BargainingThe anticipated starting base pay for this position is: $125,900.00 to $200,000.00 per yearThis position is eligible for the following benefits: Annual Incentive Program, Medical/Pharmacy Plan, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Dependent Care Reimbursement