Summary:

The incumbent is responsible to provide legal advice to the Labour Relations and Human Resources departments’ internal client group on the full spectrum of employment and labour law matters including grievances and arbitrations, wrongful dismissals, human rights, workplace health & safety, WSIB and insurance claims, and advocate for the Company in litigation, hearings etc.

Specific Responsibilties:

Provide legal advice on employment and labour law matters. Assist in formulating, drafting, editing and implementing labour & employment related company strategies, policies, procedures (as required)  to mitigate risk to the Company. 

Develop strategy, prepare arguments, draft responses, prepare witnesses and represent the company at various legal hearings, including arbitration, the Ontario Human Rights Tribunal, Ontario Labour Relations Board, the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board, courts, etc.

Advise and assist in the resolution of matters relating to discipline and termination of employment, including constructive and wrongful dismissal.

Provide guidance on matters related to harassment, sexual harassment and discrimination.

Prepare employment and labour related legal briefs and legal opinions as required.

Draft severance documentation, provide advice on severance offers and assist in negotiating settlements.

Represent the Company at various mediations and/or adjudications as required, and in misc. litigation/small claims/admin law matters.

Interpret, advise and proactively communicate/ update the Company on employment and labour related laws, rulings, regulations & general compliance, outlining the implications to the Company. 

Provide information, support and direction to outside counsel representing the Company in LR and HR litigation and other matters.

Draft or review employment contracts to ensure alignment with business requirements  while protecting  the interests of the Company.

Other duties as required.

Qualifications:

Law degree (LLB/JD); member of the Ontario Bar (required) and member of the Quebec Bar (An asset)

5 to 8 years of relevant experience in labour & employment law in a law firm and/or in-house.

Demonstrated ability to prioritize, work under pressure, work as a flexible team player

Strong verbal and written communication; effective presentation skills ; effective negotiator & advocate

Demonstrated ability to provide practical legal advice in a business environment

Intermediate knowledge of MS Word, PowerPoint, Outlook