Job Description

Job Title: Senior Associate Relations Specialist

Location: Corporate

Department: HR Operations

Job Summary:

The Senior Associate Relations Specialist is responsible for managing all associate relation activities for assigned Store Operations areas and Corporate departments.  Responsible to promote consistency and fairness in all practices and demonstrate Wawa’s values to ensure a positive work environment while mitigating risk for the company.

Principal Duties:Investigate, document and organize facts and data while maintaining confidentiality and integrity on all associate relation issues such as sexual harassment, performance management opportunities, discrimination, bullying, associate conflict, and consultations in a timely manner as assigned.Facilitate the Conflict Resolution Process, including the meeting with the Step 3 Conflict Resolution panel.  Participate in the meeting in an advisory role for guidance on policy and practice as it relates to the case. Coach, counsel and educate managers and associates on matters related to associate conflict, harassment, discrimination, disparate treatment or other similar issues to ensure the associate is treated fairly and the company is appropriately protected.Provide objective and constructive coaching and guidance on interpretation and application of company policies, procedure, federal and state regulations.Research, investigate and respond to Ethics Hotline calls.Facilitate the interactive process with associate in relation to the ADAAA.Support the delivery of Documenting Discipline workshops as the subject matter expert.Consult with Legal Counsel on issues as necessary, systematically share learning with ARS team.Maintain Associate Relations Database to track activity, understand trends and to manage caseload.If assigned area of support is the Union, manage labor relations to ensure compliance with the Collective Bargaining Agreements.  Handle all employment related issues, participate in union grievances, mediation proceedings and assists in solving labor disputes.  Maintain strong business relationships with union business leaders and stewards.  Participate in collective bargaining contract agreements and negotiations.Train, mentor, counsel and provide guidance to Associate Relations Specialist. Analyze and assign CRP Step 1 and other investigative cases to ARS.  Review ARS investigation summary documents.Conduct store visits as appropriate and necessary.

Essential Functions:

Ability to manage conflict and effectively handle difficult peopleExcellent oral and written communication skillsExcellent customer service skillsAbility to influence othersAbility to work with little or no supervisionAbility to work well individually as well as in a team environmentHigh degree of professionalism and confidentialityExcellent conflict resolution skillsDetail oriented and excellent organizational skillsAbility to handle multiple projects simultaneously and independentlyExcellent interpersonal skillsProven self-starter with demonstrated ability to make decisionsStrong relationship building experienceWilling and able to travel within Wawa’s geographical area; occasional weekends and holidays

Basic Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or related field preferred.5+ years of experience as an Associate Relations SpecialistPHR or SPHR; SHRM - CP or SHRM - SRP certification preferred.Prior experience in conducting investigationsComprehensive knowledge of HR laws and applicable local and federal guidelinesPrior experience with unions and the Collective Bargaining process preferred.Highly skilled in Microsoft Office suite applications

Wawa will provide reasonable accommodation to complete an application upon request, consistent with applicable law. If you require an accommodation, please contact our Associate Service Center at asc@wawa.com.

Wawa, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Wawa maintains a work environment in which Associates are treated fairly and with respect and in which discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated. In accordance with federal, state and local laws, we recruit, hire, promote and evaluate all applicants and Associates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, ancestry, familial status, marital status, sexual orientation or preference, gender identity or expression, citizenship status, disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, domestic or sexual violence victim status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Unlawful discrimination will not be a factor in any employment decision.