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.