ER Partner

Position Description

About Lactalis-Mainland Dairy

Mainland Dairy, the business formerly known as Fonterra’s global Consumer and associated businesses, is now part of the Lactalis Group and known as Lactalis-Mainland Dairy.

Lactalis is a French family owned business founded in Laval in 1933. Today, it is the world’s leading dairy group, present in 50 countries and employing around 85,500 people. It is home to some of the world’s best known global and international dairy brands, including Président, Galbani and Parmalat, as well as trusted local brands across each market.

Lactalis Mainland Dairy is a team of more than 4,300 employees, operating 16 manufacturing sites across Oceania, Southeast Asia, South Asia and the Middle East. In New Zealand, we make well loved brands including Anchor, Mainland, Fresh ’n’ Fruity and Primo, which are enjoyed by generations of Kiwi households.

Our passionate and talented team is committed to nurturing the future, unlocking new opportunities, and fostering innovation in nutrition and food.

About The Opportunity

Join a high-impact ER function, on a 12-month fixed-term contract, where your expertise will directly enable leaders to confidently navigate complex workplace matters. This is a hands-on, high-impact role where you’ll shape fair, compliant, and commercially sound people outcomes across the business. You will:

• Provide expert advice on complex IR/ER matters including grievances, disciplinary processes, performance management, and collective bargaining
• Interpret and apply employment legislation, collective agreements, and company policy to ensure compliant and fair outcomes
• Lead or support investigations, coaching leaders through conflict resolution and ensuring robust, fair processes
• Partner with stakeholders to develop proactive strategies that strengthen employee relations and minimise disputes
• Build capability across the business by coaching leaders and continuously improving ER processes, tools, and ways of working

About You

You’re a confident ER specialist who thrives in complex environments and enjoys partnering with leaders to find practical, balanced solutions. With strong judgement and communication skills, you bring a proactive approach to managing risk while creating positive workplace relationships. In addition to this you will have:

• Proven experience in IR/ER with strong knowledge of employment legislation and collective agreements
• Demonstrated capability managing complex case work, investigations, and escalations end-to-end
• Strong stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence and coach leaders effectively
• Excellent problem-solving skills and sound judgement in navigating sensitive people matters
• A proactive, continuous improvement mindset with a focus on enhancing systems, processes, and employee experience

For more details, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the supporting Talent Acquisition Partner – ***email_hidden***

Applications close at midnight on Wednesday 1 July.

What We Offer

• Competitive pay and benefits
• Career development and internal opportunities across a global business
• A team focused workplace in a fantastic culture where your work has real impact
• A strong commitment to quality, innovation and sustainability

Our Commitment

Lactalis-Mainland Dairy is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, or ability.