Employee Relations Manager

Versa Networks • Santa Clara, CA

23h • $140,000 - $220,000

About The Position

Versa Networks is seeking an experienced Employee Relations Manager to build and manage employee relations programs and practices. This role is ideal for an HR professional with strong judgment, deep knowledge of employment law, and a passion for creating a fair, respectful, and compliant workplace.
The Employee Relations Manager will serve as a trusted advisor to leaders and employees, handling complex employee relations matters, investigations, performance concerns, and policy interpretation while partnering closely with People Operations, Legal, and leadership. This role will report directly to the CEO, and will cover a global employee population.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field
• 8+ years of progressive HR experience, with a strong focus on employee relations
• Demonstrated experience conducting workplace investigations and managing complex employee relations cases
• In-depth knowledge of employment laws and regulations, particularly California labor laws
• Strong judgment, discretion, and ability to handle sensitive matters professionally
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong investigative, analytical, and documentation skills
• Ability to influence and coach leaders at all levels
• High emotional intelligence and conflict resolution ability
• Calm, objective, and solutions-oriented approach

Nice To Haves

• Experience with international employees
• HR certification (PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, or SHRM-SCP)
• Experience in a technology or high-growth environment
• Experience partnering with Legal on employee relations or compliance matters

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for employee relations matters, including performance issues, workplace concerns, and policy violations
• Conduct impartial and thorough investigations related to employee complaints, including harassment, discrimination, retaliation, and misconduct
• Document findings, recommend outcomes, and partner with leadership on appropriate corrective actions
• Ensure consistent application of policies and practices across the organization
• Advise and coach managers on employee relations issues, performance management, corrective action, and terminations
• Provide guidance on conflict resolution, workplace conduct, and effective people management
• Support leaders through sensitive employee situations with professionalism and discretion
• Interpret and apply company policies in compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws, with strong emphasis on California regulations
• Partner with Legal to manage risk and ensure compliance
• Contribute to updates of HR policies, procedures, and employee handbook
• Support responses to employee claims, agency inquiries, or audits as needed
• Develop and deliver training for managers and employees on employee relations topics, including workplace conduct, performance management, and respectful workplace practices
• Promote a culture of fairness, inclusion, and accountability
• Identify trends and proactively recommend improvements to reduce risk and improve employee experience
• Partner closely with People Operations, Payroll, Talent Acquisition, and Legal to support employee lifecycle decisions
• Track and analyze employee relations data and trends to inform leadership
• Participate in HR projects related to organizational growth, change management, and culture initiatives

Benefits

• Competitive Salary & Incentives: We offer a competitive compensation package with and pre-IPO equity to reward your hard work and dedication.
• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to ensure you and your family stay healthy and covered.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Enjoy a generous PTO policy that includes vacation days, sick leave, and paid holidays to recharge and take care of personal matters.
• Flexible Work Environment: We understand the importance of work-life balance. Enjoy the flexibility of remote work, and hybrid option to create the work schedule that works best for you.
• Professional Development: We believe in continuous learning. Access to training, certifications, and educational resources to help you grow in your career and stay ahead of industry trends.
• Employee Recognition: We celebrate achievements both big and small, with regular recognition programs and awards that highlight your contributions to our collective success.
• Collaborative Culture: Be part of a dynamic, inclusive, and supportive team where innovation and collaboration are at the heart of everything we do.
• Parental Leave: Generous parental leave policies to support you during life's important moments.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager