Associate Relations Manager

Note: If interested please submit your CV in English.About MVH Europe Mars Veterinary Health (MVH) Europe is a family of leading veterinary care providers committed to creating a better world for pets. Our network includes trusted brands such as AniCura and Linnaeus operating over 500 animal hospitals and clinics across 17 European countries. Together our teams deliver high‑quality modern veterinary care for companion animals ensuring peace of mind for pet owners through excellent access and patient safety.AniCura, our largest brand in Europe, provides care to over three million patients each year through 12,500 dedicated professionals. Linnaeus, operating primarily in the UK and Ireland, is home to over 6,000 Associates empowered to deliver exceptional care through a culture of collaboration, clinical excellence and continuous development.At MVH Europe we prioritise a culture of accountability, inclusion and wellbeing. We believe our purpose to make a BETTER WORLD FOR PETS starts with building a better world for our people. We support our teams through strong governance, comprehensive wellbeing programmes and a shared passion for delivering exceptional outcomes in veterinary care.Role Overview This role sits within the MVH Europe People & Organisation function and operates across veterinary and support services within a complex multi‑site and unionised environment. The Associate Relations Manager plays a critical role in balancing associate advocacy with operational legal and commercial priorities, ensuring decisions align with Mars values and local regulatory requirements.The role supports organisational effectiveness by advising on workforce transitions, organisational design considerations and cross‑functional initiatives while enabling consistent, fair and compliant associate relations practices across the Operating Unit.Key ResponsibilitiesCoach P&O Business Partners and people managers on associate relations practices, conflict management, policy application and ethical decision‑making.Design and deliver training sessions, workshops and practical tools to improve consistency and confidence in handling people issues.Promote an associate‑first mindset supported by strong emotional intelligence and professionalism.Policy Compliance & InsightsMaintain expert knowledge of Italian labour law, union obligations and regulatory requirements ensuring ongoing compliance.Partner with Legal and Risk teams to update policies and frameworks in response to regulatory or business changes.Track external labour relations and regulatory developments to drive proactive prevention and continuous improvement.Stakeholder CollaborationBuild trusted relationships with managers, associates, senior leaders, Legal, Compensation and external agencies.Collaborate across Mars Veterinary Health banners and global teams to share best practices and ensure alignment.Represent the Operating Unit in external discussions with regulatory or government bodies when required.Summary of the Role Job Title:Associate Relations ManagerDepartment:People & OrganizationReports to:Director Associate RelationsLocation:Milan, ItalyContract:Full timeLanguages:Italian and English (additional European languages advantageous)Education & Professional Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Law or related discipline preferred.Relevant certifications in employee relations, labour law or P&O management are advantageous.ExperienceMinimum 5 years of experience in associate relations and/or labour relations within a complex regulated or unionised environment.Proven experience managing complex investigations and sensitive employee relations matters.Strong knowledge of Italian employment law, collective agreements, compliance frameworks and case documentation standards.Demonstrated ability to coach leaders and influence outcomes with professionalism and integrity.Strong written and verbal communication skills including facilitation of training and difficult conversations.High emotional intelligence, resilience and sound judgement under pressure.Experience analysing trends and data to identify systemic issues and improvement opportunities.Experience with Workday or other P&O information systems is an advantage.Fluency in Italian and English is required.Key CompetenciesEmployee Relations & Conflict ResolutionLeadership & CoachingLegal & Regulatory ComplianceInvestigation & Analytical ThinkingCommunication & Stakeholder ManagementProcess Improvement & Strategic ThinkingInterested Please contact Lekya Kanamarlapudi, Group Corporate Recruitment Partner, who is happy to tell you more about this opportunity and the recruitment process. Or apply by submitting your resume through clicking the apply button below.MVHE is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds.Internal Candidates / Associates: If you are interested in this position please reach out to the Corporate Recruiter to understand the internal recruitment pathway.#J-18808-Ljbffr