Human Resources Specialist

The Cato Corporation, a leading specialty retailer of value-priced women’s fashion apparel with corporate offices located in Charlotte, North Carolina, operates three concepts: Cato, It’s Fashion and Versona.The company has approximately 1,100 stores throughout the United States and a diverse workforce of over 7,000 associates. The Company’s stock is traded on the NYSE under the symbol “CATO”.Cato is seeking a Human Resources Specialist who will report to the Director of Human Resources. In this role, you will be hands-on in Human Resources related operations to include associate relations, leave of absence administration, conflict resolution, providing guidance on disciplinary actions and compliance with labor laws. You will help with maintaining associate records with integrity and strict confidentiality.ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:Review and administer Company-wide Leave Requests including FMLA, ADA, Military and Personal Leave requests.Provide guidance to Corporate, Distribution Center and Store Operations management, as it relates to the handling of associate relations issues, by conducting confidential internal investigations including complaints of sexual harassment, discrimination, retaliation, and other issues in a professional and timely manner.Investigate, collect and store information to support involuntary terminations across the organization.Maintain a working knowledge of Federal, State, and local laws and employment legislation and enforce policies and procedures to ensure compliance.Assist in investigating and responding to EEOC, DOL and OSHA complaints.Support special projects and cross-functional initiatives as assigned.QUALIFICATIONS:Required:1 to 3 years’ experience in associate relations for a multi-site company.Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources or related field.Strong verbal, written, analytical and interpersonal skills.Effective listening skills.Maintain strict confidentiality of associate information.Must be proficient in Word, Excel and Outlook.Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with a diverse associate population.Preferred but Not Required:Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish.Strong working knowledge of employment law.