Director of Labor

Position Summary The Director of Labor is the primary point-of-contact for the City’s labor community and is responsible for labor policy.  The Director of Labor manages negotiations and grievance resolution with the City’s internal bargaining units, ensures that City vendors meet any prevailing or living wage requirements applicable to their contract; and conducts outreach and enforcement related to paid sick leave, wage theft, and related issues.  Essential Functions Leadership and Strategic Planning: Provide visionary leadership to the Department of Labor, setting strategic goals and objectives aligned with the department's mission and the City’s overarching priorities. Develop and implement comprehensive workforce plans to enhance the effectiveness, resilience, and sustainability of the City’s workforce. Collaborate with City leadership, stakeholders, and community partners to identify and address emerging labor needs and priorities. Analyze labor relations trends and patterns, translating insights into proactive proposals and actionable strategies. Serve as the technical expert and principal advisor to leadership on all labor-related matters, offering informed guidance and solutions.  Divisional Oversight: Provide strategic direction and oversight to Deputy Directors managing: Office of Employee Relations Office of Labor Relations Office of Worker Protections Office of Labor Standards Living Wage Working Group Conduct management training programs on Positive Employee Relations (PER) and other critical labor topics. Ensure legal and regulatory compliance by monitoring and advising on federal, state, and local labor laws and policies. Foster and maintain constructive relationships with union leadership and agents, overseeing union contract negotiations and implementation. Prepare for and guide City leadership in responding to labor disputes, strikes, work stoppages, and other organized activities, advising on resolution strategies, employee relations, and public/media communications. Oversee the enforcement and compliance of key labor laws, including: Paid Sick Leave Wage Theft Prevention Fair Workweek Standards Lead initiatives to educate employers and employees on labor compliance requirements and standards. Analyze enforcement data to identify systemic labor challenges and develop strategic initiatives to address them. Ensure the development, enforcement, and transparency of EEO policies, harassment protocols, and HR compliance programs. Approve and guide training initiatives for managers and employees on workplace policies, leadership development, and professional growth. Advocate for policy updates and new initiatives that promote workforce diversity, pay equity, and fairness in City contracts. Establish and oversee high-level policies and enforcement priorities that advance equitable and inclusive workplace practices. Monitor and guide the resolution of high-profile or sensitive employee complaints with integrity and transparency. Oversee worker education and employer compliance programs, ensuring accessibility and measurable impact.  Community Engagement and Customer Service: Collaborate with external vendors to deliver labor relations services on time and within budget, ensuring alignment with City objectives. Engage with community organizations, labor groups, and advocacy partners to maintain open communication channels, address workforce concerns, and foster positive labor relations citywide. Oversee the vendor selection, contract negotiations, and performance management processes, ensuring adherence to quality standards and fiscal responsibility. Lead public awareness campaigns to educate the community about labor rights, policies, and available services, enhancing transparency and public trust. Collect and analyze community feedback to identify opportunities for improvement in labor services, resolving concerns proactively and driving service excellence. Act as a liaison during high-stakes labor disputes or conflicts, coordinating with legal experts, external advisors, and community stakeholders to ensure timely and effective resolution. Facilitate training sessions and workshops with external experts, ensuring City employees and stakeholders have access to up-to-date labor information, rights awareness, and support resources.