AVP, HR Industrial Relations

About UOB

United Overseas Bank Limited (UOB) is a leading bank in Asia with a global network of around 500 offices in 19 countries and territories in Asia Pacific, Europe and North America. UOB's purpose is to build the future of ASEAN. Our purpose guides The UOB Way – that defines our unique culture and belief system, anchored on our values of being Honourable, Enterprising, United and Committed, and our people philosophy of Care, Growth and Trust.

About the Department

UOB Innovation Hub 2 (InnoHub2) is a UOB-wholly owned subsidiary and a Centre of Excellence based in Malaysia, providing Group Business Services (GBS) to support the UOB Group. Started in 2021 with technology application design, development and support, InnoHub2 is expanding beyond technology services to deliver other business services to support the Bank’s growth ambition. We are looking for talented and motivated individuals to be part of the pioneer team spearheading the development and delivery of the new services.

As part of the InnoHub2 team, you will have the opportunity to work on Group initiatives and gain regional business exposure. We are dynamic, passionate and purposeful about delivering trusted financial solutions that enables business growth. An exciting career progression with varied opportunities awaits you at IH2. Come grow your career with us.
 
 

Job Responsibilities

This position manage and resolve complex employee relations issues, provide guidance on policies, collaborate with legal counsel, engage with employees and other related bodies like MEF, and conduct training on employment laws. Monitor trends, collaborate with HR for a cohesive experience, and support diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives to foster a positive, inclusive workplace.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Investigate, manage, and resolve complex employee relations issues, including performance management, disciplinary inquiries and actions, workplace conflicts, and harassment or discrimination allegations.
• Provide guidance and coaching to leaders and managers on employee relations matters, ensuring consistency and fairness in the application of policies and procedures.
• Develop, implement, and maintain employee relations policies, procedures, handbooks and guidelines in compliance with employment laws and best practices.
• Partner with legal counsel as needed to address employment-related legal issues and minimize risk to UOB IH2.
• Regularly engage and collaborate with employee representative bodies including different employee’s group establishment within UOB IH2 like Taskforce members. 
• Conduct regular learning and development sessions for leaders and managers on employment laws and employee relations topics, including misconduct in employment, performance intervention, conflict resolution, fostering a positive work environment, and promoting team synergy.
• Monitor and analyze employee relations trends, identifying potential areas of concern and developing proactive strategies to address them.
• Collaborate with HR colleagues in areas such as operations, talent acquisition, rewards and performance management, learning and development, culture and engagement, and business partners to ensure a cohesive employee experience.
• Assist with the development and implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives to foster a more inclusive and supportive work environment that encourages team synergy and positive energy.
• Ensures compliance to corporate policies, governmental regulations and laws. Keeps abreast of legislative decisions, changes in employment laws and regulations to limit legal exposure and liability.
• To review and verify cases reported to HR involving misconduct/ employment issues and to liaise with respective departments and subsidiaries for investigation.
• To prepare investigation report for management evaluation
• To draft disciplinary correspondence, prosecution of Domestic Inquiry and to provide internal consultation of disciplinary actions against employee(s).
• To investigate and escalate staff grievances to the appropriate channels.
• To provide counselling to employees on work related problem(s).
• To represent the Company in any industrial disputes at the Industrial/Labour Court and attend to any labour or IR cases, when necessary, on behalf of the Management.
• To establish good relationships with relevant industry players, legal practitioners and related government and non-governmental agencies;
• To ensure adherence to all relevant employment-related legislations, HR policies and good practices to minimize business risk.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Law, Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 to 8 years of experience in employee relations, law, human resources, or a related field with 3 years’ experience in Industrial Relations, Employee Relations and Union Relations, preferably in banking or Global Business Services environment
• In-depth knowledge of Malaysian employment laws and regulations
• Strong conflict resolution and negotiation skills, with the ability to handle sensitive and confidential situations effectively.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to establish rapport and build trust with employees at all levels of UOB IH2.
• Demonstrated ability to promote a positive work environment, encourage team synergy, and foster open communication among team members.
• Experience in developing and implementing employee relations policies and procedures.
• Candidates with added experience in foreign workers highly advantageous
• In-depth knowledge in Employment Act and other related legislation. 
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in Bahasa Malaysia and English.
• Excellent interpersonal and stakeholder management skills.

Be a part of UOB Family

UOB is an equal opportunity employer. UOB does not discriminate on the basis of a candidate's age, race, gender, color, religion, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, or other non-merit factors. All employment decisions at UOB are based on business needs, job requirements and qualifications. If you require any assistance or accommodations to be made for the recruitment process, please inform us when you submit your online application.

Apply now and make a difference.