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Labor & Employment Counsel Manager
Mandaluyong City
Job No. r00253818
Full-time
Job Description
Job Description:
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Labor & Employment Counsel Manager to support the Employment Law function within the Philippines. This role will provide legal advice on employment-related matters, support litigation and pre-litigation activities, contribute to the development of internal guidelines, and assist with outsourcing and restructuring initiatives. The successful candidate will manage legal matters regarding labor and employment law, oversee relationships with external counsel, and advise senior management on risk management strategies. The position requires a strategic focus on the legal landscape of the Philippines while integrating with regional legal frameworks.
Key Responsibilities:
- Labor Relations Support:
Provide operational and strategic support in labor relations, focusing on employment law matters within the Philippines. Offer legal advice on various employment-related issues such as employee rights, terminations, and industrial relations. - Litigation and Pre-Litigation Oversight:
Oversee and provide guidance on litigation and pre-litigation matters in coordination with the Employee Relations team, business units, and external legal counsel. Manage and resolve employment disputes and cases with local regulatory bodies (e.g., Department of Labor and Employment - DOLE). - Development of Internal Guidelines and Documentation:
Assist in creating and refining internal guidelines, toolkits, and other resources related to employment law. Help the company navigate complex legal issues affecting employee relations and ensure the development of clear legal and business documentation. - Support Outsourcing Deals:
Advise on the legal aspects of outsourcing deals, particularly on labor law compliance, risk management, and staff transitions. Provide guidance on the legal impact of outsourcing business arrangements on the company’s workforce in the Philippines. - Support Restructuring and M&A Activities:
Provide strategic and operational legal support for ventures, acquisitions, and restructuring activities, including deal execution, post-merger integration (PMI), and ensuring employment law compliance throughout the process. - Quality Assurance of Employment Law Delivery:
Ensure the quality of labor and employment law services provided to the organization. Coordinate with external counsel where needed and ensure that legal support meets the company’s objectives and local legal requirements. - External Counsel Management:
Manage and oversee relationships with external law firms in the Philippines, including budget management and selecting the right legal experts for various employment matters. - Advisory Role to Executives:
Act as a legal advisor on employment-related issues for executives, management, and senior HR professionals. Provide strategic guidance on labor law compliance, employee relations, and potential legal risks. - Legal Updates and Integration:
Stay abreast of changes in labor and employment law in the Philippines, and synthesize relevant legal updates to incorporate into company policies, practices, and strategies. - Training and Development:
Provide training and guidance to junior and senior legal professionals within the organization. Educate senior management on legal and risk management issues to improve decision-making and legal awareness. - Regional Collaboration:
Work closely with colleagues in the region and globally to address labor law matters. Collaborate with Legal teams, HR, and business leaders to manage cross-border employment law initiatives. - Escalation and Reporting:
Raise significant legal matters and concerns to the Senior Manager of Employment Law in the region, providing insights and strategic recommendations for resolution.
Qualifications
Skills and Qualifications:
Education: Juris Doctor (JD) or Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree from a recognized institution. Admission to the Philippine Bar is required. A specialization or master’s degree in labor law is a plus, but not required.
Work Experience:
At least 6 years of experience in labor and employment law, either as in-house counsel or with a reputable law firm, with experience advising multinational corporations or large companies. A strong background in handling a wide range of employment law matters is essential, including:
- Outsourcing and Restructuring
- Employment terms and conditions (pay and benefits, termination, working hours)
- Disciplinary matters and grievance resolution
- Trade unions and collective bargaining issues
- Employee relations and workplace investigations
- Employment litigation and dispute resolution
Skills and Expertise:
- In-depth knowledge of Philippine labor and employment laws, including the Labor Code, DOLE regulations, and other relevant legislation.
- Proven ability to manage litigation, arbitration, and legal risk management.
- Strong experience in advising senior management on employment law matters.
- Exceptional negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work cross-functionally with HR, legal teams, and senior executives.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
Language Skills:
- Proficiency in English and Filipino is required. Strong oral and written communication skills in English are essential.