People Business Partner (Direct Contract)

Job Description

Overview

People Business Partner (Direct Contract)

Established in 2021, Independence Pet Holdings is a corporate holding company that manages a diverse and broad portfolio of modern pet health brands and services, including insurance, pet education, lost recovery services, and more throughout North America.

We believe pet insurance is more than a financial product and build solutions to simplify the pet parenting journey and help improve the well-being of pets. As a leading authority in the pet category, we operate with a full stack of resources, capital, and services to support pet parents. Our multi-brand and omni-channel approach includes our own insurance carrier, insurance brands and partner brands.

Job Summary

Independence Pet Group, a Subsidiary of IPH is hiring for a contract People Business Partner. This People Business Partner role is a key position within the Human Resources team supporting the Operations function. The role is responsible for day-to-day HR operations for the PetPlace business unit, which includes call centers, technology, e-commerce, and account management teams experiencing consistent and rapid growth. The position involves advising, collaborating, and coordinating activities related to employee relations, health & safety, recruiting, payroll support, benefits, compliance, and other HR functions.

Main Responsibilities

• Serve as a primary point of contact for US and Canadian employees, addressing concerns and mitigating risks.
• Support organizational development and foster a positive working climate.
• Communicate HR products and services aligned with business objectives to enhance engagement and retention.
• Partner with Operations managers to address employee relations, performance management, disciplinary actions, coaching, and documentation.
• Manage full-cycle employee relations from investigation to resolution.
• Advise managers on HR practices, policies, and legal compliance (AODA, Health & Safety, ESA / MOL).
• Document and manage leaves of absence, disability, accommodation, and absenteeism.
• Promote a positive health and safety culture and oversee return-to-work decisions.
• Collaborate with Talent Acquisition, training, IT, and compliance for onboarding and retention.
• Participate in interview panels and guide hiring processes.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of HR policies and practices.
• Conduct reporting and audits for data integrity across systems.
• Prepare job descriptions and support compensation planning.
• Travel as needed to support teams and collaborate with HR across Canada and the US.
• Plan and facilitate employee engagement activities, company events, and community service initiatives.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources
• 3–5 years of HR generalist experience, ideally in high-volume call center or retail environments
• PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, or CHRL designation preferred or in progress
• Strong collaboration and relationship-building skills
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities with attention to detail
• High sense of urgency and ability to thrive in fast-paced environments
• Independent, proactive, and accountable work style
• Ability to influence and motivate across levels
• Knowledge of employment laws and standards in Canada and / or the US
• Professional demeanor with strong judgment and discretion
• Conflict resolution and clear communication skills
• Tech-savvy with advanced proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, HRIS, and ATS
• Experience with SharePoint and MS Teams is a plus
• Pet lover and valid passport are considered assets

Work Requirements

• Frequent verbal and written communication across various mediums
• Stationary position for up to 80% of the time
• Occasional lifting up to 10 lbs
• Movement within the office to access equipment and files
• Regular use of computer and office machinery
• Minimum in-office attendance twice a month
• Travel requirement up to 10%

Benefits

• All jobs come with great benefits including healthcare, parental leave, and opportunities for career advancement. Some offerings are dependent upon location and may include:
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Basic life insurance at no cost to the employee
• Company-paid short-term and long-term disability
• 12 weeks of 100% paid parental leave
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Retirement savings plan
• Personal paid time off
• Paid holidays and company-wide wellness day
• Pet-friendly office environment
• On-the-job training and skills development
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)