Specialist, Absence Management

The Specialist, Absence Management will manage the full cycle disability management process. They will advise and coach the business on issues related to occupational and non-occupational disability claims, absence management strategies, and safe and early return to work programs. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Initiate, engage and maintain contact with absent team members

• Guide leaders on issues related to absences management and safe and early return to work programs

• Participate in weekly cross functional discussions between People and Culture and external absence management provider to identify and drive case resolution

• Evaluate the effectiveness of the disability program, make recommendations for on-going leaves and accommodations process improvements and best practices in disability management

• Manage tracking systems, process workflows and data reporting in coordination with our third party disability management provider

• Implement proactive solutions and identify processes to reduce administrative tasks, inquiries and escalations

• Develop, maintain and modify policies related to leave of absence such as sick leave, short and long term disability, government sponsored leaves etc. 

• Maintain current knowledge of relevant legislation as it applies in our work locations and collective bargaining agreements

• Collaborate with team members, management, third party disability vendors and Porter’s Occupational Health and Safety team to monitor and provide a centralized, strategic focus to reduce lost time accidents 

• Proactively engage with business partners and the People and Culture team on wellness initiatives that impact the disability scope for consideration and program implementation

• Actively participate in Porter’s Safety Management System (SMS) including, reporting hazards and incidents encountered in daily operations; understand, comply and promote the Company Safety Policy

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

• Concern for Safety: Identifying hazardous or potentially hazardous situations and taking appropriate action to maintain a safe environment for self and others.

• Teamwork: Working collaboratively with others to achieve organizational goals.

• Passenger/Customer Service: Providing service excellence to internal and/or external customers (passengers).

• Initiative: Dealing with situations and issues proactively and persistently, seizing opportunities that arise.

• Results Focus: Focusing efforts on achieving high quality results consistent with the organization’s standards.

• Fostering Communication: Listening and communicating openly, honestly, and respectfully with different audiences, promoting dialogue and building consensus.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• University Degree/Certificate in Human Resources Management and/or diploma/degree, preferably in a health related field such as disability management, occupational therapy, or vocational rehabilitation or equivalent

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in disability case management or disability insurance or workplace safety board/commission; preferably including experience working in the aviation industry

• Demonstrated knowledge of relevant legislation such as the Occupational Health and Safety Act and its regulations, the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, and the Human Rights Code

• Solid knowledge of best practices in disability management and Early and Safe Return to Work

• Self-starter, client focused, results oriented, and viewed as a trusted advisor

• Ability to manage relationships with internal and external clients

• Solid experience with a broad range of HR processes, applicable legislative understanding 

• Demonstrated ability to work well independently, as well as collaboratively in a team environment

• Excellent communication and presentation skills, both verbal and written

• Strong interpersonal skills combined with excellent judgment and decision-making abilities

• Ability to work in a highly confidential manner with all work related contacts and exercise a high degree of tact and discretion

• Ability to prioritize and multi-task and work effectively in a fast paced environment

LOCATION: Toronto (Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport - YTZ)