Manager Employee Relations

Department: People Our Company Promise We are committed to provide our Employees a stable work environment with equal opportunity for learning and personal growth. Creativity and innovation are encouraged for improving the effectiveness of Southwest Airlines. Above all, Employees will be provided the same concern, respect, and caring attitude within the organization that they are expected to share externally with every Southwest Customer.

Southwest Airlines is looking for a People-focused Leader to guide a Team of Employee Relations Partners who help maintain a fair, respectful, and compliant workplace. This position provides strategic consultation to Leaders, HR Business Partners, and Employees on complex workplace issues, including policy interpretation, performance management, and sensitive concerns such as discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. By overseeing investigations, monitoring trends, and identifying risks, this Leader plays a key role in reducing organizational risk and strengthening trust across the Company. The work includes developing and coaching Team Members, partnering with Legal, Labor Relations, and other business partners, and delivering training that supports Leadership effectiveness. This position helps shape policies and practices that foster inclusion, accountability, and a positive Employee experience—ensuring that Safety, Hospitality, and Reliability remain at the heart of how we serve our People and Customers. Additional Details The culture of Southwest Airlines means we value the camaraderie, collaboration, and innovation that occurs when we come together and interact face-to-face at our vibrant Corporate Campus. Due to the nature of this role, you would be required to work from our Dallas, TX Headquarters facility during business hours. U.S. citizenship or current authorization to work in the U.S. required and no current or future work authorization sponsorship available. We’re committed to fair hiring practices and to making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, military or veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other legally protected characteristics. Model the Southwest Way Guide and lead Team Members using SWA talent management practices to coach, develop, and engage Employees Adhere to Company Values and competencies to foster a Culture of inclusion, recognition, and support of a safe work environment Invest in leadership and self-growth through participating in continuous learning and development Responsibilities Provide leadership, direction, and oversight for the Employee Relations Team, ensuring consistent and effective handling of workplace concerns and Employee Relations matters Lead, coach, develop, and motivate Employee Relations Partners and support the ongoing evolution of Employee Relations programs, processes, and capabilities Serve as a trusted advisor to Leaders, HR Business Partners, Labor Relations, Legal, and other business partners on complex Employee Relations issues and workplace risk matters Provide expertise, consultation, and guidance regarding issues that impact the employment relationship, including performance management, workplace conduct, policy application, discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and other sensitive workplace concerns Oversee the Employee Relations case management process and ensure timely, thorough, fair, and consistent investigations conducted by Employee Relations Partners Monitor case trends, identify emerging workplace risks, and recommend proactive solutions that support a positive Employee experience and reduce organizational risk Partner closely with Labor Relations, Legal, Compliance, Internal Audit, and business Leaders to address workplace issues and implement effective solutions Develop and deliver training, resources, and guidance to Leaders and HR Partners on Employee Relations topics,