Workplace Relations Specialist

2 weeks ago

Richmond, Australia Fonterra Full time $90,000 - $120,000 per year
A world of opportunity awaits
Fonterra is a global dairy nutrition company owned by 8,000 New Zealand farming families and supported by 18,000 dedicated people around the world. As the consumer facing arm of Fonterra, our Oceania business is behind many brands loved across Australian and New Zealand such as Perfect Italiano, Mainland, Western Star, Bega, Fresh 'n Fruity, Kapiti and Anchor. Our vision is to be Oceania's most trusted dairy company, driven by those that live and breathe dairy
About the Opportunity
We are seeking a Workplace Relations Specialist to play a pivotal role in driving effective employee and industrial relations strategies, ensuring compliance with labour standards, and supporting positive workplace outcomes.
Reporting to the People Solutions Manager (ER), you will support our employee relations (ER) and industrial relations (IR) functions and drive the development and implementation of ER/IR strategies and practices
As the Workplace Relations Specialist, you will foster strong relationships with unions, internal stakeholders, and external partners, as well as ensure compliance with employment legislation and contribute to a positive workplace culture
Key responsibilities will include:
  • Ensure ER/IR strategies, negotiations, and policies comply with legal standards and align with organisational objectives.
  • Monitor changes in employment law and assess their impact on the business.
  • Provide expert guidance on employment relations, legislation, Enterprise Agreements (EAs), Awards, and best practices.
  • Contribute to the development and implementation of workplace policies that promote fairness and compliance.
  • Support the negotiation and implementation of Enterprise Agreements (EAs).
  • Represent the organisation in union discussions and external forums.
  • Assess financial and operational impacts of proposed terms and develop innovative solutions.
  • Review, draft, implement, and interpret EAs, ensuring compliance with terms.

Based at our Richmond office (free parking) this role will see you operating within a hybrid work model, with work-from-home (WFH) flexibility.
About You
You will have proven experience in employee and industrial relations across Australian and/or New Zealand markets, with deep knowledge of Australian and/or New Zealand labour laws, including employment legislation and best practices
You will bring strong negotiation, mediation, and conflict resolution skills, teamed with pragmatic problem-solving skills to navigate ambiguity, and achieve outcomes
You will also have:
  • Degree in Human Resources or Industrial Relations.
  • 5 years HR generalist experience with strong ER/IR exposure.
  • Expertise in advising on employment relations, legislation, awards, and best practices.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for building trust and collaboration.
  • Experience in fast-paced, high-volume, and complex settings.

If you are passionate about fostering positive workplace relations and driving compliance, we would love to hear from you
Ready to make your mark? Apply now and be part of something truly special Applications will close Friday, 4th July 2025. The benefits of life at Fonterra
Our people and what they bring to our Co-op shape our success. We have a collaborative culture, inspiring leaders, and passionate people, making Fonterra a great place to work. We also offer competitive remuneration and a range of benefits, regardless of your role or location
  • We offer flexible working to ensure the job gets done whilst being there for life's important moments.
  • With a global presence, a world of career opportunities awaits you.
  • We support your health and wellbeing with events, discounts on wellbeing products, and employee assistance programs.
  • We encourage lifelong learning and will help you develop your skills.
  • Enjoy discounted health insurance based on your employment type and location.
  • No matter your life stage or choices, we have leave options, including purchasing additional leave, enhanced parental benefits, and long-service leave.

Fonterra is a place where everyone can be themselves, feel empowered to do their best, and are empowered to create goodness for generations.
You, me, us together.

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