Head of People & Labour Relations Italy (9-month Fixed Term Contract)

Head of People & Labour Relations Italy

Position: 9‑month fixed‑term contract within the People & Labour Relations Function. The role supports Employee Relations and Labour Relations agendas across multiple geographies with a specific focus on all business units in Italy, covering business transformation, labour relations, employee relations, HR governance, HR policy, and the policy framework.

Core Areas of Responsibility ER/LR

• Lead provision of labour and employee relations advice within Italy and manage escalated, high‑risk cases.
• Provide consultative support and manage complex employee & labour relations cases for employees and managers in partnership with key stakeholders.
• Create a consistent employee experience across Italian business units.

Strategic Projects Management

• Manage and deliver Employee Relations and Labour Relations projects across all business units and functions in Italy.
• Support deployment of global systems and operational changes aligned with data‑digital strategy.
• Ensure projects are delivered smoothly and communicated effectively in line with Takeda values and leadership behaviours.

Policy Development

• Create a Consistent HR Policy Framework and Country HR Policy Suite for Italy aligned with global and regional guidance.
• Lead development and definition of policies that position Takeda competitively in the country.
• Support policy implementation and socialize policies at the appropriate level.

Country Governance

• Lead Country HR governance processes for Italy, aligning HR issues that affect strategy across business units.
• Facilitate cadence, operating rhythm, and decision‑making for in‑country HR initiatives.

Organisational Capability

• Enhance organisational capability within Italy through partnership with HR and Business Units.

Accountabilities Employee Relations

• Roll out and implement Employee‑Related Investigation Policies & Processes in line with global frameworks.
• Provide counsel on complex employee relations issues, ensuring fair, consistent, timely resolution and legal compliance.
• Develop and deliver local processes, tools and training—including labour negotiation support and coaching of managers and HR partners.
• Investigate complex escalated cases, acting as central contact for Ethics & Compliance and Legal.
• Manage workplace mediation and facilitate advanced problem‑solving to resolve disputes.
• Lead ER case management (e.g., performance improvement, investigations, involuntary termination, disciplinary, RIF documentation) across the region.
• Drive people initiatives to mitigate investigations and case management.
• Maintain knowledge of global ER & LR trends, regulations, and local labour law.
• Keep the ER dashboard updated with action plans.
• Collaborate on HR communication content and ensure cascade of employee messages across business units and functions.

Labour Relations

• Communicate the Global Labour Relations Strategy regionally and locally.
• Roll out local educational materials for HR and business leaders.
• Work closely with the Labour Relations Strategy & EWC Lead to maintain positive labour relations, attending external enterprise agreements and ensuring consultation awareness.
• Ensure local policies and procedures cover ER matters and are communicated effectively.

Project Management & Governance

• Provide end‑to‑end project management on regional and global initiatives.
• Support deployment of global systems with technical advice and guidance from an ER/LR perspective.
• Advise on HR change proposals and initiatives, ensuring governance is implemented effectively.
• Innovate and deliver simplified solutions that enhance employee experience.
• Lead policy development on matters such as maternity, family care, leave, rehire, life event counseling, work schedule, overtime, local employment policies, disability, affirmative action, workplace health & safety, and severance plans.
• Support labour relations projects including acquisition integration and divestment communication.
• Create regional and country governance aligned with global guidance.

Critical Skills and Competencies

• Specialist in Labour or Employee Relations.
• Ability to manage complexity of business change.
• Capability to deal with ambiguity, balance and mitigate risks, and provide credible advice.
• Strong collaboration skills with HR and business stakeholders.
• Experience in unionised environments and/or Works Councils (advantage).
• Track record in initiatives that drive exceptional employee experience.
• Influential cross‑stakeholder and coaching abilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Experience and Education

• Bachelor’s degree in labour or employment law or equivalent.
• At least 5 years’ experience in Labour and/or Employee Relations with demonstrated thought‑leadership.
• Significant experience in complex and multi‑country HR organisations.
• Accountability for multiple geographies in previous roles.
• Sound understanding of employment regulations and labour law across multiple geographies.
• Human Resources experience in the health care or pharmaceutical industry preferred.
• Proficiency in multiple languages.
• Strong partnership and collaboration focus to create sustainable processes and increase efficiency.
• HR project management experience desirable but not essential.

Locations: Rome, Italy / Pisa, Italy / Rieti, Italy

Base Salary Range: €98,000.00 – €134,200.00

Benefits: For information about our benefits, please click here.

Worker Type: Employee

Worker Sub‑Type: Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Time Type: Full time

At Takeda, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered. We believe that our differences drive innovation and excellence, and we strive to create an environment where everyone can thrive. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of race, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status.

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