JERALD JAMES

Experienced labor relations professional with a strong focus on fostering team collaboration and achieving results. Proven ability to navigate complex negotiations, resolve conflicts, and implement effective labor strategies. Adept at adapting to changing needs and ensuring compliance with labor laws and organizational policies. Known for reliability, effective communication, and strategic problem-solving. Extensive experience in labor relations management, including negotiating contracts and resolving disputes. Strategic negotiation skills to build cooperative relationships and ensure fair outcomes. Track record of effective conflict resolution and fostering positive workplace environments. Experienced in resolving workplace conflicts and ensuring compliance with labor regulations. Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills to maintain a positive and productive work environment. Knowledge of best practices in employee engagement and retention strategies, ensuring a supportive and efficient workplace. Dedicated Labor Advocate with over twenty-five years of experience, skilled in assisting with collective bargaining, resolving conflicts, mediating talks, persuasive negotiation, talented organization, and complex problem-solving.

While employed for Detroit he was elected president of EMT/Paramedic Union an affiliate of IUOE Local 547 where he initially began as a Steward in 1995 and subsequently became the Chief Steward prior to succeeding his former President. Upon being promoted to EMS Lieutenant he was subsequently elected as President of the EMS Officers Association and was intricately involved in the affiliation with the Michigan Association of Fire Fighters. As a Union official for over 25 years, he successfully recovered approximately $400,000 (including the largest single settlement in EMS history of $285k) in lost wages and benefits for his members while successfully overturning several wrongful discharge cases WITHOUT ARBITRATION. He had also been involved in negotiating several contracts, mediation and arbitration as well as bargaining with MAFF/EMSOA through the City of Detroit Bankruptcy. Building relationships with City government during his tenure as a Union official afforded significant benefits to his members as well as multiple Union based training programs to include but not limited to, conflict resolution, handling difficult employees, Contract negotiations, grievance writing, leadership development while also attending classes sponsored by the City of Detroit relative to Human Resource policies/practices and Labor Relations

Management.

In 2015 he was hired by the Michigan Association of Police, and continued providing labor advocacy for approximately 100 + labor organizations throughout Southeast Michigan including both public and private sector employees. Upon being selected as Deputy Director of the Michigan Association of Police continued to provided advance leadership and guidance to the labor and legal staff on issues relative to labor relations including but not limited too;

• Contract Negotiations to include drafting of proposals, legal arguments, creation of exhibits and talking points, and mediation, lead negotiator
• Arbitration advocate for contract interpretation and disciplinary grievances
• Unfair Labor Practice charge hearings, testimony, examination and cross examination of witness
• Creating and Submission of Legal Briefs to support hearing arguments/position
• Labor Union affiliation campaigns
• Supervised team of nine (9) staff members.