HR Business Partner (4 days p/w)

Overview

Aquent is partnering with a globally recognized leader in innovation, known for creating groundbreaking products that enrich lives and drive cultural shifts. This company is celebrated for its commitment to excellence, user experience, and a vibrant, inclusive work environment that fosters creativity and collaboration. 

Are you a seasoned HR professional with a passion for fostering positive workplace environments and navigating complex employee relations in The Netherlands? We are seeking a dynamic individual to step into a pivotal role, where you will be instrumental in shaping the employee experience and ensuring fair, consistent practices across the organization’s critical business units. In this role, you won’t just interpret policies; you’ll be a trusted advisor, an investigator, and a strategic partner, directly impacting the well-being of employees and the operational integrity of the business. Your expertise will be crucial in maintaining legal compliance, resolving intricate workplace challenges, and collaborating with key stakeholders to cultivate a thriving culture. This is an opportunity to apply your deep knowledge of labor relations within a fast-paced, innovative, retail  environment, making a tangible difference every day.

**What You’ll Do:**

* Provide expert consultation and guidance on employee and labor relations matters to managers and employees, ensuring legal compliance and consistent application of policies.
* Interpret policies, advise on misconduct and performance issues, conduct thorough investigations, and review critical decisions.
* Actively participate in meetings and negotiations with social partners, including employee representative bodies and health & safety committees.
* Support leaders and People team colleagues in resolving a wide range of people challenges, such as performance management, policy interpretation, business conduct issues, and terminations.
* Conduct independent and timely investigations into alleged workplace misconduct and policy breaches, including interviewing employees, drafting concise reports, and providing recommendations to leadership.
* Develop and implement training programs and local policies, communicating and integrating company-wide programs and procedures.
* Coordinate and lead engagements with employee representative bodies, including information and consultation processes.
* Identify and develop strategies to mitigate labor relations risks, continuously monitoring the external environment for changes.
* Coordinate and lead responses to government audits, information requests, and inspections.
* Utilize metrics and collaborate with key stakeholders to identify trends, develop strategies for positive employee relations, and mitigate risk.
* Maintain accurate and detailed case entries within Employee Relations case management systems.

**What You’ll Bring:**

* 7+ years of hands-on experience in employee and labor relations gained in The Netherlands preferably from a retail background.
* Strong knowledge of and practical experience with employee relations cases.
* In-depth knowledge of and experience with the relevant local labor relations system.
* Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
* Ability to thrive and succeed within ambiguity and in a complex, fast-paced, and challenging business environment.
* Quick learner with the ability to adapt flexibly to diverse situations.
* Demonstrated ability to partner effectively with key internal stakeholders, including senior business managers.
* Strong communication skills, encompassing effective listening, clear writing, and compelling presentations.
* Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
* Fluency in both English and Dutch is required.

**Must-Have Qualifications:**

* Extensive experience (7+ years) specifically in employee and labor relations in the Netherlands.
* Proven expertise in managing complex employee relations cases and investigations.
* Comprehensive understanding of the local labor relations framework and regulations.
* Exceptional analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
* A track record of effective partnership and influence with senior leadership.
* Proficiency in English and Dutch.
* Be available to work 4 days a week in Amsterdam or within the Netherlands

Aquent is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. We’re about creating an inclusive environment-one where different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, and everyone can contribute, grow their careers, and thrive.