Managing in a Unionized Work Environment

Manage unionized workplaces with clarity and sound judgment.

Recently, Canada has seen a level of strike activity not seen in decades, making effective labour relations leadership an operational priority*. This program helps leaders manage unionized environments with greater clarity and consistency, so decisions are more defensible, issues are addressed earlier, and workplace relationships remain constructive.

Your How-To Guide For Leadership Under Union Laws

Managing in a unionized work environment requires more than good intent. It calls for a structured approach to leadership, where managers can interpret constraints accurately, communicate decisions clearly, and handle day-to-day situations with confidence. This program supports leaders in developing a more deliberate, disciplined way of managing within unionized settings, reducing uncertainty and increasing control.

*Source: CBC News

Learn the key principles and practical applications of Human Rights, Employment Standards, and Health and Safety legislation.

Navigate agreement features, such as hours of work, scheduling, union and leave entitlements, and rules of conduct. Understand how collective bargaining and union-workplace relationships work, and gain a comprehensive understanding of grievance procedures.

Deal with union issues correctly and plan for the right outcomes, accounting for place, time and process. Discuss key disciplinary and process topics such as progressive discipline, penalties, pay suspensions, and proving just cause.

Run through techniques for controlling tardiness, improving attendance and managing poor conduct and harassment. Learn how to identify and respond to mental health issues in the workplace and about worker’s compensation and disability plans.

Differentiate between employee and labour relations. Learn how to effectively manage responsibilities while still following contract and union guidelines, and set goals and standards with your teams rather than for them. End the program by highlighting the importance of constructive feedback, recognition, and reward.

Managers in unionized workplaces will learn how to navigate shifting union laws, facilitate union-employee relationships, and gain the knowledge and expertise to level up to more senior roles. This program is ideal for front-line and HR supervisors and workplaces with complex union regulations, such as public sector departments, municipalities, educational institutions, unionized agencies and healthcare organizations.

This program packs rich insights into 2 full days of study so you can apply your new skills right away.

Learn how to lead and make decisions in unionized workforces to motivate and retain employees for the long run.

Dive deep into union laws with renowned experts in organizational performance and human resources.

Schulich ExecEd students gain the confidence, skills and perspective to attain better roles, launch new ventures, and lead their teammates.