Employee Relations Manager

THE WORK:

Ripple is seeking an experienced and motivated Employee Relations (ER) Manager to build and lead our Global Employee Relations function. This individual will serve as a trusted resource in addressing complex employee issues, supporting a fair and inclusive work environment, and ensuring consistent, legally sound practices across the organization.

You'll work closely with HR Business Partners, People Managers, and Legal to address a wide range of employee relations matters across North America, EMEA, APAC, and beyond - from investigations and performance concerns to policy development and ER training.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

Employee Relations Case Management

• Lead and conduct thorough, impartial investigations into employee complaints, misconduct, and workplace issues.
• Provide guidance and support on complex performance management, terminations, policy violations, conflict resolution, and accommodations.
• Ensure all ER issues are documented appropriately, handled in compliance with company policies, and aligned with applicable laws and best practices!
• Maintain accurate records of ER cases, including investigation notes and outcomes.

Coaching and Support

• Serve as a subject matter expert for HR Business Partners and managers on ER issues, helping them navigate tough conversations, performance concerns, and conflict.
• Provide real-time coaching and consultation on interpersonal dynamics and employee engagement risks.
• Act as an issue elevation point for HRBPs on critical or high-risk employee relations cases.

Policy and Process

• Review, update, and create HR policies and procedures with a focus on investigations and performance management in partnership with Legal and HR leadership.
• Promote consistency in policy application and ensure compliance with local employment laws across all of our global locations.
• Stay current on legal and regulatory developments affecting the workplace.

Training and Education

• Design and deliver ER-related training programs in partnership with the Learning & Development team for managers and HR team members (e.g., investigations, documentation, managing performance).
• Support a culture of accountability, respect, and psychological safety.

Reporting & Analytics

• Track and analyze ER metrics and trends to identify systemic issues and recommend proactive solutions.
• Prepare regular reports on ER activity, outcomes, and opportunities for process improvements.

WHAT YOU'LL BRING:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Human Resources, Business, or related field; Master's degree or HR certification (e.g., PHR, SHRM-CP) preferred.
• 8+ years of dynamic HR experience, with a strong emphasis in employee relations preferably in a global capacity.
• Deep knowledge of employment law and HR best practices across states as well as internationally with an emphasis on North America, EMEA, and APAC.
• Experience leading complex ER cases, including investigations and high-risk terminations.
• Proven track record of contributing to complex cross-border M&A initiatives, providing both strategic and operational support.
• Ability to independently organize, prioritize, and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced and fast paced work environment, often with short deadlines.
• Excellent problem solving skills, judgment, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to build trust, handle sensitive information, and navigate difficult conversations with professionalism and people centered approach.
• Experience partnering with Legal and HR collaborators across departments.
• A calm, thoughtful approach under pressure.
• The ability to balance empathy with sound judgment.
• An eagerness to lean in where needed, adopt ambiguity, and implement tactically while driving big picture change.
• A collaborative spirit - someone who can partner effectively with HRBPs and leaders across the world while leading the ER function.
• Ability to work "off" hours to support employees and leaders across the globe.
• Curiosity and commitment to continuous improvement.