Human Resources Manager - Employee Relations

The City of Wilmington is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Position Description One City. One Team. One Purpose. The City is seeking an experienced HR leader to serve as an Employee Relations Manager and play a key role in strengthening our workforce and fostering a culture of fairness, accountability, and trust. In this role, you will lead impactful HR initiatives, oversee complex employee relations matters, and partner with leaders across the City to address workforce challenges and develop solutions that support both employees and organizational goals. You will lead and develop HR staff and teams, manage strategic projects, and develop and implement programs, policies, and procedures that advance organizational priorities. You will also ensure compliance with applicable local, state, and federal regulations and contribute to citywide initiatives, teams, and committees. Typical Tasks Workplace Investigations Oversees and directs administrative investigations into alleged violations of City policies and employment standards. Manages the full investigation lifecycle, including intake, planning, execution and delivery of the final report. Develops investigative strategies, establishes scope and allocates resources appropriately. Conducts or oversees structured, unbiased interviews with complainants, respondents, and witnesses. Reviews, evaluates, and synthesizes documentary, electronic, and other forms of evidence. Assesses credibility, applies appropriate evidentiary standards, and ensures consistency in findings. Produces or oversees the preparation of comprehensive investigative reports, including factual summaries, findings, and policy analysis. Communicates investigation outcomes and recommendations to HR leadership and departmental leadership. Ensures confidentiality, compliance, and adherence to investigative protocols throughout all phases. Provides guidance to managers on addressing performance concerns, developing performance improvement plans (PIPs), and implementing disciplinary actions. Compliance & Risk Mitigation Interprets and applies federal, state, and local employment laws, including but not limited to Title VII, ADA, ADEA, FLSA, and related statutes. Ensure HR processes and City policies remain current, compliant with labor laws, and effectively communicated across departments. Identifies emerging legal, compliance, or reputational risks and escalate concerns to HR leadership with recommended actions. Oversee and maintains accurate, complete and defensible documentation to support compliance and organizational decision making. Case Management & Reporting Oversees investigation files within a case management system, ensuring consistency. Monitors case progress and timelines to ensure timely resolution and adherence to policies. Analyzes employee relations trends and provides insight and recommendation to support proactive workforce strategies. Prepares and delivers reports and trend analyses to HR leadership to inform decision-making and policy development. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Public Administration, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Organizational Psychology, or related field and five (5) years of progressive experience in employee relations, compliance, or administrative investigations, with two (2) years of supervisor and program management experience. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. Valid driver's license Professional HR certification (SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, SPHR) or investigation-related certification preferred (required within 1 year of hire) Strong analytical skills, sound judgment, discretion, and the ability to manage sensitive matters in a complex municipal environment. Demonstrated experience conducting workplace investigations and preparing formal written reports. Knowledge of analyzing and reporting trends for employment law and investigative best practices. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to manage multiple complex cases simultaneously. Ability to exercise independent judgment and maintain confidentiality. Supplemental Information PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Office Work: Primarily sedentary, involving prolonged sitting, computer use, telephone and office equipment operation, and standard office tasks. Requires visual acuity, hearing, and manual dexterity for reviewing documents, analyzing data, and completing administrative responsibilities. WORKING CONDITIONS: This position is primarily office-based, utilizing standard office equipment in a climate-controlled setting and adhering to applicable safety and ergonomic guidelines. Our Core Values: INCLUSION | COLLABORATION | CREATIVITY | ACCOUNTABILITY Our Mission Statement: Through forward-thinking policies and responsible stewardship, we are creating a better city every day with excellent core services and quality of life for all. What we offer: The City of Wilmington believes that employees are one of our most important resources. We offer an excellent salary and competitive benefits package to serve the needs of our employees and their families. Our benefits package includes: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance + many other insurance options Excellent retirement benefits, including a city provided 4.5% contribution each pay period into a 401(k) account and automatic enrollment into the North Carolina Local Government Employees’ Retirement System Employer-paid health & wellness clinic Free on-site city gym access Paid sick and vacation leave + 13 paid holidays per year 6-weeks paid parental leave Paid volunteer & blood donation leave to give back to our community Flex schedule and telework availability, depending on your position Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives Tuition assistance benefits Applicant Status Updates: After the closing date for this position, applications will be screened by Human Resources. Applicants who meet the minimum and/or preferred qualifications will be referred over to the hiring department. All updates regarding an application can be viewed through your applicant portal.