Deputy Manager - Industrial Relations - Manufacturing Firm

Deputy Manager - Industrial Relations

Location: Ranjangaon, Maharashtra

Work Type: Onsite

Department: Human Resources

Function: Industrial Relations / Employee Relations

Industry: Automotive / Auto Components

Experience: 8-15 years

Role Overview:

We are looking for an experienced Deputy Manager - Industrial Relations to manage plant-level labour relations in a fast-paced automotive manufacturing environment. The role will involve proactive union engagement, labour-law compliance, employee relations, grievance management and maintaining a positive, productive and harmonious workplace.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage plant-level Industrial Relations activities.
• Handle union negotiations, wage settlements, long-term settlements and collective bargaining.
• Develop and maintain effective relationships with labour departments, government authorities and local bodies.
• Ensure compliance with applicable labour laws, including the Factories Act, Industrial Disputes Act, CLRA and other statutory requirements.
• Manage disciplinary actions, domestic inquiries and grievance redressal.
• Monitor labour relations and proactively address potential disruptions such as strikes, go-slows and other labour unrest.
• Partner with HR and business teams on employee engagement, welfare and communication initiatives.
• Represent the organization in labour court matters, government proceedings, inspections and audits.
• Drive continuous improvement in Industrial Relations practices in alignment with business and operational objectives.
• Work closely with plant leadership to maintain a stable and productive workforce.

Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Human Resources, Labour Law, Industrial Relations or a related discipline.
• 8-15 years of relevant experience, preferably within the automotive or auto-components manufacturing industry.
• Candidates with strong Industrial Relations experience from other large-scale manufacturing environments may also be considered.

Required Skills & Experience:

• Strong knowledge of Indian labour laws and Industrial Relations practices.
• Proven experience in union management, wage settlements and collective bargaining.
• Hands-on experience managing labour unrest and employee relations issues.
• Fluency in Marathi and English is essential.
• Strong negotiation, communication and stakeholder-management skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of plant-level HR/IR operations.
• Exposure to Lean Manufacturing or TPM environments will be an advantage.