NEIL E. BOWERMAN, J.D.

Minneapolis, MN 55417 (612) 516-8082 or (612) 724-0961 neilbowerman@comcast.net

DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES

Solutions-focused, accomplished senior human resources executive seeking to contribute HR and legal expertise toward building top-performing teams, with a strong commitment to the development and retention of each companys most valued asset its people. Calm demeanor in the face of difficulties; adept at quickly mastering new roles and responsibilities. Reputation for integrity, perseverance, and work ethic. Continuously pursues opportunities to learn and takes on challenges for further professional growth. CORE COMPETENCIES Cross-Functional Team Leadership Total Awards Administration Creative Problem Solving Employment / Labor Law Negotiations Staff Training & Motivation ACHIEVEMENT HIGHLIGHTS Successfully implemented classification and compensation of jobs and movement to better align and consolidate jobs for the organization. Recognized and moved quickly to develop a strategic labor negotiation strategy plan to bridge the void that was a clear strategic gap in previous years; effectively positioned the district for future negotiations in an austere state financial environment. Earned key leadership role in meeting district goal of transforming HR Division into a capable, strategic partner in the MPS organization. PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE MINNEAPOLIS PUBLIC SCHOOLS (MPS), Minneapolis, MN Executive Director, Division of Human Resources (2009-2011) Maintained full accountability for overseeing all aspects of day-to-day activities in support of organizational goals. Demonstrated exceptional proficiencies in all facets of HR, including recruitment, development, and retention of a diverse workforce. Applied strategic planning, prioritization, and project management skills toward consistently achieving critical deadlines while maintaining high quality standards. Trained, mentored, and led HR Directors, with a strong focus on optimizing productivity and performance. Contributed strong communication skills as Chief Negotiator with the districts 15 bargaining units, as well as Chief Counsel and advocate in employee and labor relations matters. Spearheaded MPS Health Plan and facilitated support and medical-clinic opportunities for MPS employees. Successfully launched districts first comprehensive negotiation plan rolled out in 2011. Researched, authored, and updated the Employee Handbook, integral to ensuring effective results. Achieved significant savings of time, labor, and storage costs while enhancing customer service capability by overseeing the effort to digitize paper records. EDUCATION MINNESOTA (EM), St. Paul, MN Field Services Manager (2008-2009) Built and steered multiple teams to maximize performance in consistently completing projects in a fast-paced, timesensitive environment. Managed 27 direct reports while serving an integral role in their development and performance. Facilitated execution of programs to increase capacity to meet members needs. Trained and led staff in conflict resolution, mediation, and Public Employment Labor Relations Act (PELRA). Oversaw field services budgets, with a focus on maximizing resources while controlling costs. Served as a member of Executive Team, involved in strategic planning and decision-making. Continued Operations Management Relationship Building Conflict Resolution

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MINNESOTA BUREAU OF MEDIATION SERVICES, St. Paul, MN Mediator (2004-2008) Demonstrated exceptional effectiveness and diplomacy skills mediating collective bargaining disputes, including contract and grievances. Evaluated case matters and served as professional labor relations neutral involving contested case hearings. Provided key support in creation/facilitation of joint labor and management committees. Trained, mentored, and led committees by providing technical training in labor relations and dispute resolution. Proactively assisted and administered the State of Minnesota Workplace Mediation Program. MINNEAPOLIS PUBLIC SCHOOLS (MPS), Minneapolis, MN Labor/Employee Relations Manager and Counsel (1999-2004) Diligently and effectively administered all phases of the labor/employee relations function including grievance and contract mediation, arbitration, and administrative proceedings. Collaboratively led staff to develop an effective HR program. Appointed to represent organization as lead negotiator in a majority of contract negotiations with17 district bargaining units and over 9,000 employees. Counseled and coached executives and line managers. Spearheaded employee relations and labor/employment law training for supervisory personnel. Developed key initiatives to resolve employee conflicts, which resulted in significant cost savings. MINNESOTA SCHOOL EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION (MSEA), St. Paul, MN General Counsel and Field Representative (1995-1999) Demonstrated sharp legal acumen in delivering legal assistance and representation to members of a labor union representing over 6,000 school employees. Successfully handled matters on behalf of the MSEA on issues regarding contract negotiations, litigation, grievance mediation/arbitration and administrative proceedings. Developed and integrated labor relations, legal, and member rights training programs. Served as Chief Negotiator for MSEA locals in collective bargaining agreement negotiations. Earned a stellar reputation and prevailed on 90% of arbitrations, litigation, and administrative proceedings. EDUCATION Juris Doctorate Degree - UNIVERSITY OF OREGON SCHOOL OF LAW, Eugene, OR Director & Lecturer - Peoples Law School (Employment/Labor Law) Faculty Research Assistant - Donald Brodie, Professor of Employment and Labor Law Member - Student Advisory Committee on Faculty Hiring Honor - Herbert M. Galton Labor and Employment Law Scholarship Bachelor of Arts Degree in Personnel/Industrial Psychology and Philosophy - UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA, Minneapolis, MN LICENSES & CERTIFICATIONS Minnesota Attorney License #02431634 Oregon Attorney License #92235 Admitted to practice in U.S. District Court, Minnesota & Oregon Qualified Neutral under Rule 114 of Minnesota General Rules of Practice Certified in Administrative Law: Fair Hearing - National Judicial College, Reno, NV PROFESSIONAL TRAINING Performance Management; Wage & Hour Law; Employee Rights; Minnesota Public Employment Labor Relations Act (PELRA); Interest Based Negotiations; Employee Investigations; Conflict Management and Resolution; Progressive Discipline; Managing Employee Attendance, Collective Bargaining, and Americans with Disbalilties Act (ADA)