Job Description

We are seeking a proactive and experienced Assistant Manager, Industrial Relations & Employee Relations (IR/ER) to support the management of employee relations matters across our retail operations. This role is responsible for maintaining harmonious employer-employee relationships, ensuring compliance with employment laws and company policies, and providing guidance on disciplinary, grievance, and performance-related matters.

The successful candidate will work closely with business leaders, store management, and HR teams to foster a positive work environment while mitigating employee relations risks.

Key Responsibilities

• Advise management on employee relations, disciplinary, misconduct, grievance, absenteeism, and performance management matters.
• Conduct investigations into employee complaints, misconduct, and workplace issues, ensuring fair and consistent handling.
• Manage the full spectrum of disciplinary processes, including PIP, domestic inquiries, show-cause letters, warning letters, and termination documentation.
• Provide guidance and support to retail operations teams on employment legislation, company policies, and best HR practices.
• Represent the Company in discussions with employees, external authorities, and legal representatives where required.
• Monitor and ensure compliance with Malaysian employment laws and regulations, including Employment Act, Industrial Relations Act, and other relevant legislation.
• Review, develop, and implement HR policies, procedures, and employee relations initiatives.
• Analyze employee relations trends and recommend preventive measures to minimize workplace disputes and turnover.
• Conduct training and awareness programs for managers on employee relations, disciplinary handling, and workplace compliance.
• Support organizational change initiatives and employee engagement programs to maintain a positive work culture.
• Prepare reports, case summaries, and management updates on IR/ER matters.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Law, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in Industrial Relations and Employee Relations, preferably within the retail, FMCG, or multi-site operations environment.
• Strong knowledge of Malaysian employment and industrial relations laws.
• Experience handling disciplinary cases, domestic inquiries, grievances, and labor-related disputes.
• Excellent investigation, conflict resolution, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Exposure to dealing with government agencies, labor authorities, and legal counsel.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English and Bahasa Malaysia.
• Ability to manage sensitive and confidential matters with professionalism and discretion.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
• Willing to travel occasionally to retail outlets and operational locations.

Skills