Lead People Relations Specialist

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Lead People Relations Specialist to join our Corporate Business Services HR team. This role will serve as a key partner and advisor in managing complex employee relations matters supporting senior leaders and driving a culture of fairness respect and compliance.

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 8 years of experience in employee relations investigations and conflict resolution with a strong track record of supporting executive level leaders and navigating sensitive workplace issues.

This is a hybrid role based in Reston VA and requires regular in-office presence of at least two days per week.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as the lead advisor on employee relations matters across the Corporate Business Services organization providing expert consultation and support to senior leaders managers and employees.

• Conduct thorough timely and impartial internal investigations in response to employee concerns complaints or alleged policy violations.

• Interpret and apply HR policies procedures and employment laws to ensure consistency and mitigate risk.

• Provide coaching and guidance to managers on performance management corrective action workplace conflict and employee engagement strategies.

• Analyze employee relations trends and develop proactive strategies with HRBPs and the broader People Relations Team to address root causes and enhance the employee experience.

• Manage the accommodation process in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) including facilitating the interactive process and maintaining compliant documentation.

• Collaborate closely with HRBPs the broader People Relations Team Legal Compliance and other internal partners to ensure aligned and appropriate resolution of issues.

• Support involuntary terminations reductions in force and other sensitive employee transitions.

• Draft and review employee relations documentation (e.g. warnings separation letters investigation summaries) for clarity accuracy and compliance.

• Contribute to policy development training initiatives and continuous improvement efforts.

• Maintain accurate documentation and case tracking within HR systems.

• Uphold confidentiality ethics and integrity in all interactions and case handling.

• Promote ICFs core values and a culture of respect integrity and accountability.

• Performs other duties as assigned or deemed necessary.

Basic Qualifications:

• 8 years of progressive HR experience with a focus on employee relations investigations and conflict resolution.

• Demonstrated success advising and coaching senior level leaders to include C Suite leaders on complex and high-risk people matters.

• Strong understanding of federal and state employment laws and HR best practices.

• Experience working in a fast paced and highly collaborative environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelors Degree in Human Resources Business or a related field; advanced degree or certification (e.g. SHRM-CP PHR/SPHR) preferred.

• Experience supporting corporate functions such as Finance Legal and Human Resources.

• Proficiency in Workday or similar HRIS as well as Microsoft Office Suite (Word Excel PowerPoint).

• Experience interpreting HR analytics and using data to inform decisions.

• Strong project management and training development skills.

Professional Competencies:

• Exceptional judgment and discretion in handling sensitive employee matters.

• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal with the ability to influence at all levels.

• Strong collaboration skills and the ability to partner effectively across functions.

• Solutions oriented mindset with a level of integrity and professionalism.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic and deadline-driven environment.

At ICF we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate orassistwith responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is notpermitted. This policy is in place tomaintainthe integrity and authenticity of the interview process.

However we understand that some candidates may require accommodationthat involves the use of AI. Ifsuch anaccommodation is needed candidates are instructed to contact us in advance at. Weare dedicated to providingthe necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.