You Can Catch More Flies With Honey: Embracing the Modern Complexities of Labor and Employment Laws with Southern Hospitality - Johnson and Bell
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You Can Catch More Flies With Honey: Embracing the Modern Complexities of Labor and Employment Laws with Southern Hospitality ALFA INTERNATIONAL 2019 LABOR & EMPLOYMENT SEMINAR June 12-14, 2019 Montage Palmetto Bluff www.alfainternational.com
You Can Catch More Flies With Hone y:
Embracing the Modern Complexities of Labor and Employment Laws
with Southern Hospitality
ALFA INTERNATIONAL 2019 LABOR & EMPLOYMENT SEMINAR
June 12-14, 2019 | Montage Palmetto Bluff
Southern hospitality isn’t just a catch phrase, it’s a way of life. Most define In addition to general session panels combining client and outside counsel
Southern hospitality as being neighborly and welcoming family, friends, expertise on Title VII and diversity, you will hear from NLRB Chairman
and, yes, even strangers into one’s home. These seemingly simple and John Ring, who will offer an update on the Board’s priorities, along with its
enduring principles have been challenged the past few years as we have perspectives on recent developments and ongoing enforcement priorities.
seen new or amended federal, state and/or local ordinances governing the
We’ll offer a host of breakout panel presentations as well, again combining
workplace. Recent election cycles also created uncertainty as to how the
the practical experience and substantive expertise of inside and outside
new Administration, Congress and key labor organizations may alter those
counsel, and engage in roundtable discussions which tackle some of
federal obligations and the employment landscape.
modern employers’ most ornery problems; our goal is to have you leave
There’s no beatin’ around the bush, appreciating the complexities of the prouder than a peacock!
modern employment relationship has never been easy, but in the current
As always, we will provide attendees with comprehensive course book
era of minimum wage increases, paid sick and safety leave measures,
materials and a state-by-state compendium on current employment law
social media, and lifestyle considerations, keeping track of the many
issues. We look forward to seein’ y’all in pretty as a peach Bluffton, South
local and national law developments may be one of the most challenging
Carolina for what promises to be a timely and informative program, and a
compliance hurdles for employers.
wonderful opportunity to connect with colleagues at the invitation of ALFA
To face this challenge, ALFA International’s 2019 Labor & Employment International.
Practice Group has built a program embracing principal characteristics
of Southern hospitality: kindness, politeness, helpfulness, charm and Tamara Nelson
charity. We have assembled panels of experienced and insightful speakers Program Chair, 2019 Labor & Employment Practice Group Seminar
who will provide invaluable information by sharing their knowledge and MERRICK, HOFSTEDT & LINDSEY, P.S.
experiences, and suggesting practical tips regarding issues currently Seattle, Washington
confronting employers.
What is ALFA International?
ALFA International is the premier network of independent
law firms. Founded in 1980, ALFA International was the
first and continues to be one of the largest and strongest
legal networks. We have 150 member firms throughout the
world. Our 80 U.S. firms represent 95 of the 100 largest
metropolitan areas. Our 70 international firms are located
throughout Europe, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, Africa,
Canada, Mexico and South America.
ALFA International’s mission is to provide high quality, cost
efficient legal services wherever our clients need them. The
ALFA International model enables our members to use their
local expertise to deliver highly effective legal solutions,
often drawing upon the collective wisdom and experience
All about Montage Palmetto Bluff of other member firms. ALFA International clients benefit
Montage Palmetto Bluff is nestled along the May River in the from a geographically comprehensive network of
Lowcountry of South Carolina between Hilton Head Island and exceptional law firms and accomplished trial and business
Savannah. Set within an award winning 20,000 acre community, counsel. Our member firms meet high standards to be part
the resort encompasses an extensive nature preserve, walking of the ALFA International network and are well respected by
trails, two vibrant villages, marina, restaurants, and a Jack Nicklaus
Signature Golf Course. Accommodations include spacious
their peers in the legal and business community.
cottages, guest rooms, suites and village homes that all pay
homage to the region’s rich heritage. www.alfainternational.com
We d n esd a y, Ju n e 12th
11:00 am – 2:00 pm
CLIENT ADVISORY BOARD
MEETING & LUNCH
Riley Boardroom
5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
“Tis a Hat that
2:00 pm – 9:30 pm 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Welcome Reception
REGISTRATION
Makes a Southern
2:00 pm – 6:00 pm: Jessamine
& Buffet Dinner
6:30 pm – 9:30 pm: Sunrise Lawn
2:00 pm - 4:30pm
FACULTY REHEARSAL
Woman” Sunrise Lawn
WOMEN’S INITIATIVE EVENT
Herbert/Vanderbilt Welcome to the South, y’all!
Fore & Aft
All attendees are welcome to join us for a cocktail
Bring your finest hat—or borrow one reception and buffet dinner. Resort casual attire is
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm of ours—to Fore & Aft at 5:30 pm, encouraged— or whatever suits your fancy!
ALL ALFA INTERNATIONAL right before the welcome dinner. We
ATTORNEY MEETING will sample classic Southern cocktails
and learn how to make them, while
Somerset Chapel matching the famous source to quotes
by and about Southern women.
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm Katie Connolly
CLIENT ROUNDTABLE Women’s Initiative Liaison
NILAN JOHNSON LEWIS
Astor Minneapolis, Minnesota
Th ursd a y, Ju n e 13th
7:30 am – 9:30 am 8:30 am – 8:45 am 8:45 am – 9:45 am
BREAKFAST BUFFET INTRODUCTORY REMARKS GENERAL SESSION 1
Somerset Chapel & Lawn
7:30 am – 8:30 am
Kara Stubbs
Chair, ALFA International
CURRENT INITIATIVES &
Meeting Attendees Board of Directors PRIORITIES AT NLRB
BAKER STERCHI COWDEN Mr. Ring, as Chairman for the National Labor Relations Board will
8:30 am – 9:30 am & RICE L.L.C.
Spouses & Significant Others offer an update on the Board’s priorities, along with its perspectives
Kansas City, Missouri
on handbook-related changes, joint employment, concerted activity,
Yvette Davis granting employee access to employer email systems, confidentiality
8:30 am – 12:15 pm Chair, ALFA International Labor rules in investigations, and other developing issues.
PROGRAM SESSIONS & Employment Practice Group
HAIGHT BROWN & INTRODUCTION
Herbert/ Vanderbilt (General
BONESTEEL LLP Sarah Lamar
Sessions) & Astor/ Goelet/ Mason Los Angeles, California HUNTER MACLEAN
Thornton (Breakout Sessions)
Tamara Nelson Savannah, Georgia
Program Chair, 2019 Labor KEYNOTE SPEAKER
& Employment Practice
Group Seminar
John Ring
Chairman
MERRICK, HOFSTEDT
& LINDSEY, P.S. NATIONAL LABOR RELATIONS
Seattle, Washington BOARD (NLRB)
Washington, D.C.
9:45 am – 10:00 am
BREAK
•A• •B• •C•
Share Deal Vs. Asset Don’t Get Your Feathers Over Yonder: A National
Deal—What to Consider Ruffled, But May I Bring Perspective to Sick and
From an Employment/Hr My Hen to Work Today? Safe Leave
and Commercial/Business Service and Comfort More than 30 cities, counties, and
Perspective Animals in the Workplace states across the country require
private employers to provide
Corporate M&A doesn’t just No more playin’ possum about
paid sick and safe leave to their
happen once in a blue moon, it is animals in the work place,
employees, and there’s more on
an ever-growing trend. Complex service animals are a recognized
the way. This trend surely makes
cross-border transactions reasonable accommodation. The
every employer as nervous as
require thorough preparation and panel will discuss the differences
a long tailed cat in a room full of
comprehensive legal advice. This between service and emotional
rockin’ chairs. Is it possible for
panel will give insights on how support, comfort, and therapy
10:00 am – 11:00 am an employer operating in multiple
to deal with challenges and risks animals, the laws that apply to
locations to draft a “one-size-
BREAKOUT SESSIONS: when it comes to cross-border these animals, the EEOC’s position
fits-all” policy to comply with this
GROUP 1 share and asset deal transactions on these animals, and how
patchwork of laws? Not really, but
comparing the different legal employers can deal with certain
we can dream. The panel will cover
implications for both types. The challenges that may occur when
emerging trends, new laws on
presenters will not only cover employees request and/or are
the horizon, judicial and legislative
the HR perspective but also permitted to bring these animal to
challenges, and the business
discuss business and commercial their workplaces.
considerations for national
issues and thereby show a
employers who are forced to keep
multidisciplinary and international Kelly Hoffman
up with this rapidly developing area
approach. Attendees will be Moderator
of law. So grab a cool compress
tickled pink with our hypothetical NORMAN, HANSON and join this discussion on today’s
transaction involving a share deal & DETROY, LLC hottest topic, sick leave.
and an asset deal aspect and be Portland, Maine
asked to share their thoughts, ideas
and experience. Jennifer Lankford Courtney Blanchard
Senior Corporate Counsel Moderator
Gero Schneider CRACKER BARREL OLD NILAN JOHNSON & LEWIS
Moderator COUNTRY STORE, INC. Minneapolis, Minnesota
TIEFENBACHER Lebanon, Tennessee Jessie Mischke
Frankfurt/ Heidelberg, Germany Christina “Chrissy” Bolmarcich Director, Senior
Sejal Winkelman SEMMES, BOWEN & SEMMES Corporate Counsel
Global HR Baltimore, Maryland LIFETIME, INC.
TARGET Chanhassen, Minnesota
Minneapolis, Minnesota Joe Cates
Erica Brown Director of Legal Affairs and
Senior Corporate Counsel
Senior Counsel
AGILITI HEALTH
DAWN FOODS
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Jackson, Michigan
Kim Campion Steven H. Schwartz
BROWN & JAMES, P.C.
CHARLES RUSSELL SPEECHLYS
St. Louis, Missouri
Paris, France
11:00 am – 11:15 am
BREAK
•A• •B• •C•
11:15 am – 12:15 pm
Arbitration: Thumbs Up or What in Tarnation? Is that Hold Your Horses, It’s a BREAKOUT SESSIONS:
Thumbs Down? Facebook Recruitment Marathon, Not a Sprint: GROUP 2
Arbitration continues to be a Ad Discriminatory? Class, Collective and
lightning rod of controversy in Employers Facing Age Representative Action
the workplace. While Congress Discrimination Class Update and Strategies
and many states have introduced
legislation to ban arbitration in Actions This panel will discuss issues
certain situations (for example, On behalf of a proposed regarding removal of class/
sexual harassment cases), the plaintiff class of nearly every collective actions under CAFA,
U.S. Supreme Court continues Facebook user, the plaintiffs’ use of individual arbitration, PAGA
to uphold most arbitration firm Outten & Golden sued a overlap in California, discovery
agreements between employers proposed defendant class of strategies and how best to avoid
and employees. This panel will every employer who has posted serial litigation. Please join our
address the pros and cons of recruiting ads on Facebook using discussion so you don’t find
using arbitration agreements in age targeting limitations. Your yourself barkin’ up the wrong tree.
the employment relationship, what company or your client may be
has worked and what hasn’t, what a defendant, and you don’t even Jim Peterson
we can expect going forward, and know it! This ongoing litigation Moderator
how arbitration impacts the face raises fascinating and complex HIGGS FLETCHER & MACK
of employment litigation. procedural and merits issues, like San Diego, California
Rule 23 defendant class actions,
ADEA applicant disparate impact Sarah Johnson
Sarah Lamar
theories, the juridical link doctrine, Senior Employment Counsel
Moderator
advertising claims, and more. NORDSTROM
HUNTER MACLEAN
Come benefit from the lessons Seattle, Washington
Savannah, Georgia
learned from those litigating the Mark Heilig
Tim Maguire case, and see if you need to Vice President &
Asst. General Counsel prepare for your own defense Corporate Counsel
- Human Resources in the case. You’ll be busy as a
stump-tailed cow in fly time if you BLOOMIN’ BRANDS
GULFSTREAM
don’t swipe away these claims at Tampa, Florida
Savannah, Georgia
the outset. Learn how to avoid the Ron Polly
James Heartfield pluff mud in the marsh of class HAWKINS PARNELL & YOUNG
General Counsel action litigation. Atlanta, Georgia
COVENANT TRANSPORTATION
GROUP, INC. Joel O’Malley
Chattanooga, Tennessee Moderator
Mike Murphy NILAN JOHNSON & LEWIS
CARTER CONBOY Minneapolis, Minnesota
Albany, New York Dean Robertson
Assistant VP/Senior
Corporate Counsel
VITAS HEALTHCARE
Miami, Florida
Kim Metrick 12:15 pm – 1:15 pm
Director and Managing
Counsel, Employment Law LUNCH
WALGREEN CO. Somerset Chapel & Lawn
Deerfield, Illinois
Joe Spitzzeri
JOHNSON & BELL, LTD
Chicago, Illinois
6:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Dinner Bell’s Ringin’!
COCKTAILS & DINNER BUFFET
Moreland Landing
Tonight’s dinner will be a true Southern
2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
experience! We will begin the evening with a 15
NETWORKING TIME minute boat ride in groups of 12 over to Moreland
AT THE HOSPITALITY SUITE Landing, a unique area on property, where we
Jessamine will enjoy an oyster roast and other traditional
Plumb tuckered out? Come and go southern fare. Please keep in mind that dinner
as you please during this special will be outdoors on crushed gravel, so plan
networking time. Try using the ALFA footwear accordingly. We will have trolleys after
International App to set up time to dinner to take us back to the central resort area.
meet with fellow attendees to enjoy Boats will depart the dock beginning at 6pm
drinks, snacks, and a little neighborly and the last boat will depart at 7pm so please
competition all while soaking in the arrive at your leisure to board the boats.
southern cordiality.
Frid a y, Ju n e 14th
7:30 am – 9:30 am 8:30 am – 9:30 am
BREAKFAST BUFFET GENERAL SESSION 2
Somerset Chapel & Lawn
7:30 am – 8:30 am
YOU CAN’T MAKE A SILK PURSE OUT OF A
Meeting Attendees SOW’S EAR, OR CAN YOU?
8:30 am – 9:30 am
Spouses & Significant Others
HOW TO DEAL PROACTIVELY WITH TITLE VII CLAIMS
You can bless someone’s heart, mind your P’s and Q’s, and ask how someone’s mama is doing, but if
you don’t have a plan for dealing with Title VII claims, things are fixin’ to go cattywampus. Title VII prohibits
8:30 am – 12:30 pm
employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex and national origin. Every employer needs
PROGRAM SESSIONS to have a plan to deal with these increasingly common claims. In this interactive and entertaining session,
Herbert/ Vanderbilt (General the panel will address best practices at each level of dealing with Title VII claims: the initial investigation, the
Sessions) & Astor/Goelet/Mason EEOC, and litigation (including discovery and trial). The audience members should come ready to participate,
Thornton (Breakout Sessions) and make sure things don’t go to hell in a hand basket.
Chris Page Donna Roberts Paul Klockenbrink
Moderator Vice President & Deputy GENTRY LOCKE
YOUNG MOORE & HENDERSON General Counsel Roanoke, Virginia
Raleigh, North Carolina CRACKER BARREL OLD
COUNTRY STORES, INC.
Marion “Mickey” Clark
Lebanon, Tennessee
Senior Legal Counsel
O’REILLY AUTO PARTS Kymberly Wellons
Springfield, Missouri Associate General Counsel
WESTROCK COMPANY
Richmond, Virginia
9:30 am – 9:45 am
BREAKSESSION 1:
FIT TO BE TIED: BEST PRACTICES FOR MULTISTATE EMPLOYERS TO PROTECT
THEIR CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
Employers with multistate offices or employees are often confronted with Galit Kierkut
confusing and conflicting state laws protecting trade secrets and confidential Moderator
information, as well as new and pending statutes governing non-competes and SILLS CUMMIS
•1• non-solicits. But don’t get your knickers in a knot, this roundtable will exchange
drafting tips, discuss consideration needed, and consider the impact of the
& GROSS P.C.
Newark, New Jersey
federal Defend Against Trade Secrets Act. We will also discuss practical steps
that companies should be taking to protect their confidential information even
before an employee leaves. We will assess how to best address choice of law
issues, California’s new statute that is a game changer on choice of law, and
arbitration vs. court for the aftermath of injunctive relief. Finally, we will discuss
practical advice for enforcing these covenants, including the all-important
forensic examination. 9:45 am – 11:15 am
ROUNDTABLE SESSIONS
There will be 2–40 minute roundtable
sessions with a 10 minute break
SESSION 2: in between. These roundtables
HEAVENS TO BETSY! IMPAIRMENTS AFFECTING THE WORKPLACE? LET’S TALK ABOUT are meant to be interactive group
STRATEGIES FOR BALANCING SAFETY WHILE RESPECTING EMPLOYEE RIGHTS discussions.
Jurisdictions have gone hog wild in recognizing recreational substances, what’s Yvette Davis
•2• an employer to do? This roundtable will welcome an open discussion regarding
the myriad of issues facing employers regarding substances in the workplace,
Moderator
HAIGHT BROWN
policies and protocols, and testing concerns. Employees’ privacy, medical & BONESTEEL
and recreational marijuana, safety, hiring, training, and employee discipline are Los Angeles, California
just a few of the complex and nuanced topics to be considered. Notably, the
roundtable will focus on new legislation and its impact on testing in certain states.
SESSION 3:
MUCH FASTER THAN MOLASSES: PREPARING FOR EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES
Taking your own sweet time in no longer an option, tech is an undeniable part of Courtney Nichols
the workplace! This roundtable will explore anticipated changes and legal pitfalls Moderator
•3•
associated with evolving technology. Questions asked and answered will focus PLUNKETT COONEY
on the various forms of evolving technology already in place and likely to impact Detroit, Michigan
employers across the globe by 2025. We will share best practices for compliance
during a tenuous time and discuss strategies that companies on the “cutting
edge” have tried with, and without fail. This roundtable will focus on the new, the
undeveloped, and the exciting, while ensuring that you are embracing a new era
in a most hospitable way.
SESSION 4:
NOT READY FOR CHANGE? WELL BLESS YOUR HEART
•4•
Change is a constant theme in business. Whether you are transitioning leaders Schaun Henry
as people retire, restructure or rightsizing, the one thing you can be certain of Moderator
is that transition is fraught with legal danger if not planned correctly. If you’re MCNEES WALLACE
& NURICK LLC 11:15 am – 11:30 am
hankerin’ for some good tips on the topic, come sit a spell with us as we discuss
key planning considerations and lessons learned from experience when your Harrisburg, Pennsylvania BREAK
company finds itself facing potential transitions.11:30 am – 12:30 pm 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
GENERAL SESSION 3 LUNCH
Somerset Chapel & Lawn
THAT DOG WON’T HUNT: REPLACING
THE GOOD OL’ BOY WORK ENVIRONMENT
In recent times employers have seen the passage of many laws and the issuance of
many judicial decisions that have granted, recognized or expanded various employee 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
protections, and codified the way employees are to be treated. With these changes
comes the need to adapt and to increase diversity and inclusiveness in the workplace, OPTIONAL
both out of necessity and because it is the right thing to do. This panel will discuss POST-SEMINAR TOURS
the legal, moral and ethical obligations of employers as it explores how to increase Please refer to the optional activities handout for more
awareness and sensitivity of protected characteristics. It’s no longer a biscuits and gravy detailed information on this afternoon’s activities.
world, but rather an avocado and quinoa world, so grab a lemonade and join us on the
proverbial veranda for an interactive look at how the employer-employee relationship has
changed.
Joel Hlavaty Mike Jackson 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Moderator Director & Employee Relations Counsel
FRANTZ WARD TARGET OPTIONAL
Cleveland, Ohio Minneapolis, Minnesota POST-SEMINAR DINNER
Eunice Nakamura Candace Bankovich Please refer to the optional activities handout for more
Corporate Counsel LEWIS WAGNER detailed information on this evening’s dinner event.
G6 HOSPITALITY Indianapolis, Indiana
Carrollton, Texas
Fa c ul ty Bi os
Candace Bankovich strives to be a businesses are protected through the use Minneapolis. She represents employers
valued business partner for each and every of tailored employment, non-compete, in a variety of employment law matters,
client. As the Chair of Lewis Wagner’s confidentiality and independent contractor including FLSA/wage-and-hour class
Labor and Employment Law Practice agreements when necessary. When legal and collective actions and discrimination
Group, Candace utilizes her experience action is unavoidable, Candace defends defense. Blanchard advises clients on
as former General Counsel for a number businesses of all sizes against employment- everything from background checks to
of privately held and publicly traded related claims, including employment termination. She specializes in time off
corporations to provide the client service discrimination, wage disputes, wrongful policies, including compliance with state
termination, and unfair labor practices. and local paid sick and safe leave laws, fair
and practical advice that businesses
Candace’s diverse background in business workweek laws, and PTO plans. Before law
seek. Candace has extensive experience
allows her to provide focused and strategic school, Blanchard worked as a newspaper
providing proactive prevention counseling
advice during federal and state agency reporter covering courts and politics.
on significant employment issues such
investigations and litigation. In addition to
as employee discipline and termination, Christina Bolmarcich is a Principal and
her work with clients, Candace chairs her
employment policies and practices, Chair of Semmes’ Business Litigation
firm’s Diversity & Inclusion Committee.
reductions in workforce, and union and Maritime Department, which includes
avoidance. She frequently works with Courtney Blanchard is a labor and the Labor and Employment group.
clients to provide training on employment employment attorney with Nilan Johnson Ms. Bolmarcich practices labor and
and management topics and ensures Lewis, a national law firm based in employment with a focus on employmentissues arising in maritime, transportation, Kim Campion leads Charles Russell administration, and litigation management,
and hospitality industries. Ms. Bolmarcich Speechlys’ Employment team in Paris. including oversight of outside counsel.
advises and defends employers in disputes Kim advises companies on all aspects of
involving FLSA wage and compensation, French employment law relating to their Mickey Clark is a senior legal counsel
Title VII discrimination, ADEA, ADA, FMLA, French operations (whether on individual for O’Reilly Auto Parts, one of the largest
wrongful discharge, unemployment, or collective matters), and in particular, in specialty retailers of automotive aftermarket
and she drafts employment handbooks connection with restructurings or M&A. He parts, tools, supplies, equipments and
and employment contracts including advises mostly international companies accessories in the United States, serving
non-competition, non-solicitation, or groups of companies on all aspects of both the do-ityourself and professional
confidentiality, and severance agreements. French employment law relating to their service provider markets. The Company
Ms. Bolmarcich is a graduate of University French operations (whether on individual operates more than 4,570 in 44 states. Prior
of Maryland School of Law. She has or collective matters), and in particular, to his current role at O’Reilly, Mickey was
published several articles for the Maryland in connection with restructurings or senior litigation attorney for RadioShack
State Bar Association and has spoken M&A. Kim represents his clients in their Corporation, having served in that position
at numerous professional seminars on a in-court and out-of-court proceedings from 1990 to 2015. For the past 26
variety of labor and employment issues. (litigation and settlement negotiations). years, Mickey has practiced in the area
Ms. Bolmarcich was selected by The He has recognised expertise concerning of employment/labor law providing legal
Daily Record as one of Maryland’s 2016 collective employment issues including advice and /or managing litigation in every
Top 100 Women, as a “Rising Star” by negotiations with trade unions, works state in the U.S., as well as Puerto Rico and
Maryland Super Lawyers Magazine for councils and staff representatives, USVI. Mickey received his B.S. in Business
2013 and 2014, and as a “Super Lawyer” definition and implementation of Administration from the University of
by Maryland Super Lawyers Magazine collective redundancies, and negotiation Texas at Dallas and his J.D. from Southern
for 2018 and 2019. In Semmes’ 132 year of collective agreements. He assists Methodist University. In September
history, Ms. Bolmarcich is the first female his clients in connection with their day- 2004, he co-authored an article in the
attorney to serve as a Chair of a Semmes’ today human resources issues, such as National Law Journal entitled “New ADA
Department. She is the second female recruitment, employment contracts and Guidelines Will Affect Many Employers.”
attorney to serve as a member of the dismissals, staff representative elections
Yvette Davis is a partner in the ALFA
Firm’s Management Committee. She also or drafting of collective agreements.
International firm of Haight Brown &
serves as the Chair of the Firm’s Library
Joe Cates is Director of Legal Affairs and Bonesteel, LLP in Los Angeles, California.
Committee and is an active member
Senior Corporate Counsel for Agiliti. For She is the leader of the firm’s Employment
of the Firm’s Diversity Committee.
more than 75 years, Agiliti has supported & Labor Practice Group and is also
Erica Brown is the VP, Assistant General the healthcare industry. The company a member of the firm’s Construction
Counsel for Dawn Foods, Inc., where provides equipment management Defect Practice Group. Her practice is
she leads the privacy and labor and services to health care providers and concentrated in the defense of clients
employment legal function in addition hospitals, to control costs and ensure in a wide variety of matters including
to other responsibilities. Dawn Foods, medical equipment is in the right place sexual harassment, wrongful termination,
headquartered in Jackson, Michigan, is a at the right time, as well as a range of discrimination, wage and hour, and claims
global bakery supplier with manufacturing clinical engineering services. Joe joined under the Americans with Disabilities
and distribution facilities throughout United Agiliti in 2013 (then Universal Hospital Act in both Federal State Courts. Prior
States, Europe, Canada and Mexico. Services, Inc.) and he counsels Human to rejoining Haight Brown & Bonesteel,
Prior to joining Dawn, Erica served in Resources and management on labor LLP, Ms. Davis interned in the Labor
in-house counsel and compliance roles and employment related topics—including & Agencies Department of a national
with Kellogg’s Company, McDonald’s and background checks, wage-and-hour insurance client, working closely with
Walmart. She clerked for the U.S. Court issues, and termination counseling— Human Resources. She is a graduate
of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit and with respect to its 3,000+ employees of the USC School of Law, and UCLA.
the U.S. District Court for the Northern in more than 80 locations across the Yvette serves on ALFA International’s
District of Alabama. She is a graduate United States. Joe is also responsible for Labor & Employment Steering
of Duke University Law school and the regulatory compliance, contract drafting Committee, and its Women’s Initiative
University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill. and negotiation, insurance program Practice Group Steering Committee.James C. Heartfield has served Schaun Henry practices in the Labor & phases of labor relations and employment
as General Counsel of Covenant Employment Group at McNees Wallace & litigation. Joel routinely advises employers
Transportation Group, Inc. since April 2009 Nurick LLC, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. on all aspects of their relationships with
and Chief Human Resources Officer since He provides representation and counseling employees, as well as with respect to
2012. Covenant Transportation Group, to employers on a wide range of labor matters concerning litigation prevention
Inc. is a publically traded transportation and employment matters, including and human resources management, and
holding company (Ticker Symbol employment discrimination cases under he regularly defends them in federal and
CVTI) which owns and operates four Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, state courts of all jurisdictions on claims
asset-based motor carrier companies the Age Discrimination in Employment arising under the various federal and
Act, the Americans With Disabilities Act, state labor and employment laws. He
(Covenant Transport, Landair Transport,
the Family and Medical Leave Act, the additionally represents employers with
Southern Refrigerated Transport, and Star
Fair Labor Standards Act, and other respect to complaints and charges filed
Transportation) and two non-asset based
federal, state and local issues. Schaun with the EEOC and OCRC, NLRB and
brokerage companies (Landair Logistics
provides guidance for employers on unfair SERB, and with OSHA and the DOL, as
and Covenant Transport Solutions). Mr.
labor practices and other labor relations well as with health care and ERISA issues
Heartfield formerly practiced with the
issues, as well as providing representation and complaints, and collective bargaining
Chattanooga based law firm of Chambliss, for employers at labor arbitrations and issues and strike disputes. Joel is also
Bahner & Stophel, P.C. and later he was a negotiations. He advises employers on a a frequent presenter at seminars and
cofounding partner of Heartfield & Duggins, wide variety of personnel issues including management training programs on a wide
P.C. He is an undergraduate of Louisiana hiring, termination and revision of policies. variety of topics. Joel is a member of
State University (LSU), and a graduate of Schaun graduated from West Chester the Ohio Bar Association and Cleveland
University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) law University and received his law degree Metropolitan Bar Association, and is the
school. He is a member of the National from Dickinson School of Law. Before past Chair of the Labor & Employment Law
Lawyers Association, the Tennessee Bar undertaking the practice of law, Schaun Section of the Cleveland Bar Association.
Association, the Christian Legal Society, served in the Armed Forces. He is a retired In 2010 and continuing, Joel was named
the Association of Corporate Counsel, Major of U.S. Army Special Forces. one of Ohio’s Super Lawyers and is listed
the American Trucking Association, and in U.S. News Best Lawyers in Cleveland.
Joel R. Hlavaty is one of the founding He is a member of the firm’s Management
the Transportation Lawyers Association.
partners of Frantz Ward LLP and previously Committee and previously chaired its
Mark Heilig is the a Vice President, was an associate and partner with Diversity & Inclusion Committee.
Corporate Counsel Labor & Employment Thompson Hine & Flory LLP. Mr. Hlavaty
of Bloomin’ Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ:BLMN), focuses his practice on the representation Kelly M. Hoffman is a partner in
one of the world’s largest casual dining of management in all phases of labor the Portland, Maine ALFA law firm of
companies with approximately 100,000 relations and employment litigation, and Norman, Hanson & DeTroy, LLC. Her
regularly appears in federal and state practice focuses on litigation, including
Team Members and close to 1,500
courts and administrative agencies of insurance defense and subrogation,
restaurants throughout 48 states, Puerto
all jurisdictions on claims arising under employment and discrimination matters,
Rico, Guam and 20 countries. Mr. Heilig
federal and state labor and employment and professional liability defense. Since
oversees BBI’s compliance with all
laws. Joel graduated from John Carroll 2013, she has been listed in New England
domestic employment law and oversees
University with honors with a double Super Lawyers as a Rising Star. In 2018
the company’s litigation strategy. Prior to
major in philosophy and psychology and and 2019, she was recognized by “Best
joining BBI in February, 2016, Mr. Heilig a minor in mathematics, and he received Lawyers in America” for her work in Labor
was a Partner at Thompson, Sizemore, his law degree with honors from the and Employment Litigation as well as
Gonzalez, & Hearing, P.A. in Tampa, University of Akron. Prior to entering Professional Malpractice Defense Law.
Florida where he represented employers private practice, he served as law clerk She frequently acts as a continuing legal
in litigation nationwide. A native of to the Honorable Alice M. Batchelder education presenter on both a national and
Tampa, Florida, Mr. Heilig received his on the U.S. Bankruptcy Court and U.S. state level, lecturing on employment law
B.A. from Ithaca College in 2003 and District Court for the Northern District of concerns of individuals, businesses, and
his Juris Doctor from The Florida State Ohio. Mr. Hlavaty focuses his practice on counsel; evidentiary issues and challenges
University, College of Law in 2006. the representation of management in all facing businesses and counsel duringworkplace investigations; and ethical Sarah Johnson is Associate General Paul G. Klockenbrink is a Partner in
dilemmas presented in litigation. Prior to Counsel and Senior Director of Employment the Roanoke, Virginia, ALFA International
joining Norman, Hanson & DeTroy, LLC, Ms. Counsel at Nordstrom, Inc., one of the law firm of Gentry Locke Rakes & Moore,
Hoffman was an associate at the law firm nation’s leading fashion specialty retailers LLP. Mr. Klockenbrink represents business
of Hausmaninger Kletter in Vienna, Austria. with over 350 stores in 40 states, Puerto clients in all aspects of the employment
She is authorized to practice in both Maine Rico and Canada. Sarah and her team relationship including wage and hour laws,
and New York. Ms. Hoffman earned her advise the HR division on all employment discrimination claims, return to work and
B.A. degree from Johns Hopkins University; issues including wage and hour laws, noncompete/trade secret issues. He has
her M.A. degree, summa cum laude, state and federal anti-discrimination laws successfully defended companies in jury
from Seton Hall University; and her J.D. and state and local legislation (scheduling, trials covering a variety of employment
degree, cum laude, from the University of sick leave etc.) . She and her team also issues. Paul regularly speaks and conducts
Maine School of Law. In 2008, she was manage the company’s wage and hour training on various employment law
named by the U.S. Women’s Olympic class action and PAGA lawsuits and issues. Mr. Klockenbrink chairs the firm’s
Field Hockey Committee to its traveling individual arbitration/lawsuits. Before Hospitality and Restaurant Practice Group.
team and, last summer, represented Team joining Nordstrom, Sarah was a partner He received his bachelor’s degree from
USA in the position of goalkeeper during at the Seattle law firm, Foster Pepper the University of Vermont and his J.D.
the International Hockey Federation (FIH) PLLC. Prior to moving to Seattle in 2000, degree from the University of San Diego.
Masters World Cup held in Europe. Sarah was a partner at Bell, Boyd & Lloyd
(now K & L Gates) in Chicago, Illinois. Sarah H. Lamar is a partner in the
Mike Jackson serves as Director & Savannah, Georgia ALFA International law
Galit Kierkut is a Member of Sills firm of HunterMaclean, and she is a former
Employee Relations Counsel at Target’s
Cummis & Gross P.C. and is a member Chair of ALFA International. Ms. Lamar has
headquarters in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
of the Employment & Labor Practice experience representing employers in state
In his role, Mike is the lead employment
Group. Ms. Kierkut practices in the and federal courts with respect to claims
counsel for and leads a team that supports
areas of employment discrimination, under Title VII, the Age Discrimination
all of Target’s stores in Target’s Central
harassment, whistleblowing, employee in Employment Act, Americans with
U.S. region (over 23 states and over
leave and accommodation, wage and Disabilities Act, Family and Medical Leave
500 stores). Prior to his current role at
hour, restrictive covenant, privacy and Act, and the Fair Labor Standards Act. She
Target, Mike helped to support Target’s
trade secret counseling and litigation in also represents employers with respect
stores on the West Coast along with
state and federal courts throughout the to breach of contract and tort claims, and
several other key projects and initiatives.
United States, and before the EEOC and conducts in-house training for employers
Mike is also actively involved in Target’s
Departments of Labor. She represents and advises clients on a variety of human
Legal Affairs Diversity Action Committee national and international employers in resource issues including immigration and
(“DAC”) and, specifically, involved with their U.S. operations in the pharmaceutical, affirmative action matters. Ms. Lamar is
the Committee’s efforts to build a diverse manufacturing, financial, food service, admitted to the bars of Georgia and the
team. Mike is Target’s liaison to both the retail and health care industries. She trains District of Columbia and all federal courts
National LGBT Bar and MN Lavender Bar. and counsels employers in all employment in Georgia. She is heavily involved in the
Mike is also a 2019 Leadership Council compliance areas and is a frequent speaker Georgia Chapter of the Society for Human
on Legal Diversity (LCLD) Fellow, and is and writer on restrictive covenants, trade Resource Management and is the longtime
also on the regional host committee for secrets and privacy law. Ms. Kierkut also co-chair of that organization’s Government
the First Chair Awards, an annual awards has significant experience in complex Affairs Committee. Ms. Lamar received
celebration and conference held in Chicago commercial litigation in state and federal her B.A. in History from Yale University in
recognizing contributions by outstanding courts and acts as outside general counsel 1988, and her J.D. from Emory University
in-house counsel. Before Target, Mike to certain of her clients. Ms. Kierkut is in 1991. She has been selected for Best
held in-house employment counsel always willing to run into court to protect Lawyers in America in Employment Law -
roles first with McDonald’s Corporation her client’s confidential information, but Management Side for the last 10 years and
and, then, The J.M. Smucker Company also understands when negotiation is in Chambers USA for Employment Law.
where he supported the field HR teams preferable to litigation and works closely
at both companies, after several years in with her clients to achieve their goals with Jennifer M. Lankford is Senior Corporate
private practice at Fisher & Phillips LLP. the least disruption to their businesses. Counsel for Cracker Barrel Old CountryStores, Inc., where she handles all matters such as Title VII, FMLA, ADA, WARN, FLSA and maintains primary responsibility for
related to employment litigation. Ms. and OSHA. Tim graduated in 1992 from the company’s employment law issues
Lankford manages the legal litigation team, the University of Georgia School of Law, for its approximately 35,000 employees.
which in addition to handling employment where he was the President of the Student She handles and manages the company’s
claims company-wide, supervises Bar Association. Tim received a B.B.A in employment litigation and administrative
compliance measures and manages the Finance, cum laude, with a History minor proceedings, develops and implements
company’s ADR program. Ms. Lankford from Texas Christian University in 1989. Tim employment policies and procedures,
also oversees the Employee Relations and his wife Mary Beth have three children and counsels internal clients—both in the
department, which ensures Title VII and – Patrick (22), Michael (20) and Katie (16). company’s health and fitness clubs and
Title II compliance related to employees its corporate office—on a wide variety
and guests, respectively, through training Kim Metrick is Director and Managing of employment legal issues. Prior to Life
and investigations. With over 650 stores in Counsel of Walgreens’ Employment Law Time, Jessie worked in private practice.
45 states, Ms. Lankford’s role additionally Group. Walgreens is one of the nation’s
includes advising on employment law largest drugstore chains and included Michael J. Murphy is a partner of the
matters affecting the store’s 70,000 plus in the Retail Pharmacy USA Division of Albany, New York ALFA International
employees. Prior to joining Cracker Barrel, Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc., the first firm of Carter Conboy. Mr. Murphy is a
Ms. Lankford was a partner with Thompson global pharmacy-led health and well-being trial attorney handling complex litigation
Burton, PLLC, in Franklin, Tennessee, enterprise. Kim joined Walgreens in 1995 with an emphasis on employment law.
where she practiced employment defense as a Senior Employment Attorney and He is regularly retained by leaders in
litigation and provided compliance training was promoted to Director and Managing business, government and the professions
and advice to companies operating Counsel in 2003. In her current role, to represent their interests in sensitive,
nationwide. In 2017, Ms. Lankford was Kim leads a team of attorneys and legal high profile litigation and investigation.
appointed by Governor Bill Haslam to professionals to successfully defend and He maintains an active trial practice in
the Tennessee Board of Appeals, the resolve nationwide class and collective State and Federal courts, as well as
appeals panel for state employees seeking actions and other employment, wage before the EEOC and the New York
to appeal a demotion, suspension, or and hour litigation, web accessibility State Division of Human Rights. Mike is
termination by the State of Tennessee. and regulatory matters. Prior to joining a fellow of the American College of Trial
Walgreens, Kim was an associate at Ross Lawyers. He formerly served as Chair of
Tim Maguire currently serves as the and Hardies (now McGuire Woods). Kim the Board of ALFA International and as
Deputy General Counsel and Ethics Officer earned a bachelor’s degree in Political President of the Northern District of New
of Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation. Science from the University of Michigan, York Federal Court Bar Association.
In this role, he provides legal advice and Ann Arbor, and a Juris Doctorate from
strategic guidance to top management Chicago-Kent College of Law. Kim is Eunice Nakamura is Vice President of
on employment and labor laws and a 2015 and 2016 recipient of the First Legal for G6 Hospitality LLC, which owns,
Human Resources matters for all of the Chair Top Employment Counsel Award. operates or franchises Motel 6, Studio
Company’s domestic and international She is Vice President of the Coalition of 6, and Hotel 6 brands. Eunice oversees
operations. Tim also leads the Company’s Women’s Initiatives In Law and currently all litigation matters for G6 Hospitality
global ethics and security investigation serves on their Executive Board. and is responsible for the launch of
programs. These programs include the compliance program at G6. In her
reporting and investigations, risk mitigation, Jessie Mischke is Senior Corporate role, she regularly advises its executive
audit preparation, dispute resolution, EEO Counsel for Life Time, Inc. Life Time committee and various business units on
monitoring and reporting and affirmative champions a healthy and happy life legal and compliance issues impacting
action planning. Before joining Gulfstream for its team members across over 140 the company’s operations and business.
in February 2003, Tim was a partner in the destinations in 39 major markets in Prior to joining G6 Hospitality, Eunice was a
Atlanta office of Fisher Phillips, a national the U.S. and Canada, providing an litigator with a Dallas litigation firm, focusing
labor and employment law firm where he unmatched athletic resort experience on commercial and employment litigation.
worked for nearly 11 years following law with distinctive, branded programming Eunice is very active in the bar community
school. His practice focused on litigation including personal training, athletic and has served in various capacities
and providing employers with preventive classes, and full-service LifeSpas and throughout her career. To highlight a few,
advice on the various employment laws LifeCafes. Jessie joined Life Time in 2016 she has sat on the board of the Dallas BarAssociation while serving as president of Leader of the Michigan ALFA International Journal. Chris is the Chairman of ALFA
the Dallas Asian American Bar Association. law firm, Plunkett Cooney. Ms. Nichols International’s Hospitality & Retail Practice
She has chaired the Minority Participation represents employers in workforce-related Group, and is the former Chairman of
Committee for the Dallas Bar Association litigation under state and federal law, ALFA’s Marketing Committee. Chris is a
and has served on the Dallas Diversity Task including disputes involving allegations frequent speaker at ALFA seminars, and
Force. She is a Dallas Association of Young of wrongful termination, discrimination, has created presentations on litigation and
Lawyers Leadership Class Alumni and has retaliation, and wage and hour violations. management topics including Managing
served as a mentor for several leadership Ms. Nichols also advises employers Millennials, Work-Life Balance, Reptile
classes for subsequent classes. She is on complicated contractual issues and Theory, non-compete agreements, using
a Fellow of the Dallas Bar Foundation, a conducts in-house training for employers social media evidence to win lawsuits,
past board member of the Dallas Women of various sizes. In addition, she represents and an employer’s guide to dealing
Lawyers Association and currently sits on employers in administrative matters before with social media use by employees.
the board of the Dallas Women Lawyers the NLRB, DOL, and EEOC. Ms. Nichols
Association’s Inaugural Foundation Board. was selected as an Up & Coming Lawyer James M. Peterson is a partner of the
Eunice frequently speaks on various by Michigan Lawyer’s Weekly and named San Diego, California ALFA International
topics throughout the country, especially a Rising Star by Michigan Super Lawyers. law firm of Higgs, Fletcher & Mack LLP
providing insight from the in-house where he chairs the firm’s Business
counsel perspective. She has also been Joel O’Malley is a Shareholder at Nilan Litigation Department and the Labor and
recognized as Outstanding Corporate Johnson Lewis PA where he defends Employment Practice Group. He is a
Counsel by D CEO Magazine as well as his clients nationwide in all types of past Chair of ALFA International’s Labor
named to the Lawyers of Colors’ “Hotlist.” employment and wage-and-hour litigation, and Employment Practice Group and a
and helps clients enforce restrictive frequent participant in ALFA programs.
Tamara K. Nelson is a shareholder in covenants against former employees. He Mr. Peterson was named one of the top
the firm of Merrick, Hofstedt & Lindsey, handles both individual and class litigation 75 Labor and Employment Attorneys in
P.S. in Seattle, Washington, where she throughout the country, with extensive the State of California by the Daily Journal
maintains an active litigation practice on experience litigating in California. He also and the only San Diego employment
behalf of corporate and institutional clients. counsels clients in complying with discipline defense lawyer named to this prestigious
Her practice focuses on commercial and discharge, wage-and-hour, workplace group. The Super Lawyer publication,
and complex torts, employment law, leave, and employment and severance American Lawyer Media., San Diego
and professional liability. Ms. Nelson agreement issues. Joel received his law Magazine and Martindale-Hubbell
has obtained successful outcomes on degree from the University of Michigan. selected Mr. Peterson as a Top Rated
behalf of her clients in state and federal Lawyer in ‘Labor & Employment Law’
trial courts, and has successfully argued Christopher A. Page is a partner at for the past several years. Mr. Peterson
before the Washington State Court of Young, Moore and Henderson, ALFA represents management in individual
Appeals. Ms. Nelson is admitted to International’s Raleigh, North Carolina and class action employment related
practice in all Washington state and member, where he is the leader of its disputes in both state and federal courts
federal courts, as well as the Ninth Circuit Retail/ Hospitality industry group. Chris is including wage and hour class actions,
Court of Appeals; she is also a member an experienced trial attorney, with special claims for wrongful termination and
of the King County Bar Association where emphasis representation of clients in the discrimination and misappropriation of
she served on the Board of Trustees Hospitality and Retail industries, where he trade secrets. Mr. Peterson also counsels
2011-2014. In addition to her work, Ms. represents a number of national clients with clients on all aspects of the employment
Nelson devotes substantial time to her all of their legal needs, including claims relationship including wage and hour
community through her volunteer work with relating to employment, business disputes, laws, protection of trade secrets and
King County Community Legal Services trademark infringement, false advertising, confidential information, employment
and Lawyers Helping Hungry children, premises accidents, food-borne illnesses, agreements, policy manuals, employee
a Washington nonprofit organization Dram Shop, and construction defects. handbooks, termination decisions, lay-
committed to ending childhood hunger. After graduating summa cum laude from offs, and disability management. Mr.
Duke University, Chris earned his law Peterson is a graduate of the University
Courtney Nichols is a Shareholder and degree from the Yale Law School where of Utah (Finance and Marketing), the
Labor and Employment Practice Group he served as Senior Editor for the Yale Law University of Utah David Eccles School ofBusiness (M.B.A.) and the University of multiemployer bargaining context, as well discovery requests and the many other
Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law (J.D.) as experience with multi-employer pension legal issues arising out of the company’s
plans. Chairman Ring received his J.D. and operations. Prior to joining VITAS, Mr.
Ronald G. Polly, Jr. is a Sr. Partner of B.A. from Catholic University of America. Robertson practiced law at a national
the ALFA International law firm of Hawkins Chairman Ring is a Fellow in the College law firm gaining substantial experience in
Parnell & Young LLP where he serves as of Labor and employment Lawyers. litigation and alternative dispute resolution
the Partner-In-Charge of its Atlanta office of multi-million dollar claims arising from
and the Chair for the firm’s Labor and Donna Roberts is Associate General commercial disputes, insurance, medical
Employment Department. His practice Counsel for Cracker Barrel Old Country malpractice, employment and class action
is exclusively devoted to management Store, Inc., which operates more than 640 litigation. Mr. Robertson is a former board
side representation in all phases of labor restaurant/retail stores in 43 states and member and president of the Association of
and employment law, including class employs in excess of 75,000 workers. Ms. Corporate Counsel South Florida Chapter.
and collective actions. He has extensive Roberts is responsible for all aspects of the He currently sits on the Legal Assisting
experience in connection with drafting, company’s labor & employment practice Program Advisory Board for Broward
negotiating and litigating employment as well as its complex litigation matters. College and is Vice Chancellor for the
agreements including covenants not to In this role, she also regularly defends the Episcopal Diocese of Southeast Florida.
compete. He is also a frequent speaker company in Tennessee-based lawsuits
on employment related issues and is the and employment-related arbitrations. Prior Gero Schneider is head of Tiefenbacher´s
Chair Emeritus of ALFA International’s to joining Cracker Barrel, Ms. Roberts International Division and a core member
Labor & Employment Group. Mr. Polly was a partner in the Nashville office of of its employment and corporate practice.
received his Bachelor’s degree from southeastern regional law firm, Stites & Tiefenbacher is the ALFA International
the University of Virginia and his J.D. Harbison, PLLC, where she practiced in the member firm in Germany. Gero advises
degree from the University of Kentucky. areas of business litigation, employment both German and international clients in
and mass tort litigation defense. all fields of employment law as well as any
John F. Ring was sworn in as a Member related corporate law issue with a particular
of the National Labor Relations Board Dean Robertson is an Assistant VP focus on cross-border transactions.
on April 16, 2018 for a term ending & Senior Corporate Counsel at VITAS Gero has a wide range of experience
on December 16, 2022. Mr. Ring was Healthcare, the nation’s largest hospice in employment and corporate business
confirmed by the Senate on April 11, healthcare provider, with operations in 15 matters, including litigation and arbitration,
2018, and he was named Chairman of states and the District of Columbia. He has collective matters as well as cross-border
the National Labor Relations Board on been with the company 17 years and has transactions. Before joining Tiefenbacher
April 12, 2018 by President Donald J. practiced law for more than 20 years. A as a partner in 2013 Gero practiced as
Trump. Prior to his appointment to the large portion of his job involves overseeing General Counsel with the supermarket
NLRB, Chairman Ring was a partner in and managing the company’s litigation. chain Lidl and another medium sized law
the Washington, D.C. office of the Morgan, Mr. Robertson provides general legal firm as a partner. Gero earned a doctor
Lewis & Bockius law firm. He was with advice and assistance on a wide range of degree from Leipzig University and a
Morgan Lewis for almost 30 years, where matters involving: commercial disputes, Master of Comparative Law from the
he served as co‐chair of the firm’s Labor professional liability matters, employment University of Adelaide (South Australia). He
/ Management Relations practice and litigation, including wage and hour class is author of many legal publications. Gero
Practice Group Leader for the Washington action litigation; responding to EEOC is also a past Co-Chair of the International
Office Labor and Employment Law charges; overseeing internal investigations Law Practice Group of ALFA International
Practice. He represented client interests in of discrimination, harassment, and and now serves on the ALFA International
all aspects of labor law, including collective whistleblower claims; providing advice Board of Directors. Moreover, he serves
bargaining, workforce restructuring, and counsel on a wide variety of on a non-profit board of a trust which
employee benefits, labor‐management employment related issues, including is committed to facilitating, supporting
related counseling, litigation and litigation day-to-day advice to management and and promoting of various areas for a
avoidance strategies. Chairman Ring has human resources professionals. He is also fulfilled, self-determined life in old age.
an extensive background negotiating responsible for overseeing investigations
and administering collective bargaining by governmental agencies, pre-litigation Steven H. Schwartz is a shareholder at
agreements most notably in the handling of disputed matters, third-party the ALFA International law firm of Brown &You can also read
