The transportation and automotive sector encompasses many lines of business – from automotive assembly plants and parts producers, to truck manufacturers and trucking companies, to organizations involved in the air and aerospace industries.

Hicks Morley plays an active role in helping companies across this sector manage a range of human resources issues. While individual businesses vary greatly, many face common challenges – a weakening economy, a strong Canadian dollar and intense competition, both at home and abroad. This requires flexibility from a human resources standpoint, and we help clients manage workplace change and implement innovative solutions, from restructuring hours of work, to consolidating operations, to amending pension and benefit plan arrangements. We also help clients manage the impact of new legislation, such as the tougher emission standards being introduced in the trucking industry.

Union representation is widespread in this sector, and we help clients with all aspects of labour and employment law, from collective bargaining advice and representation, to arbitrations, tribunal hearings and court injunctions. For employers establishing new facilities, we help structure the workplace to ensure regulatory compliance in all key human resources areas – such as employment standards, workplace safety and insurance, and occupational health and safety – and help all employers in this sector with risk assessment and compliance advice.