Alex Brat, Senior Executive Director, Labour Relations, in the Division of People Strategy, Equity & Culture (PSEC), has been awarded a 2023 President’s Excellence Award for Influential Excellence for his exemplary contributions to the University.
The President’s Excellence Awards recognize exceptional contributions by administrative staff and librarians to the University and are part of the broader Pinnacle Awards Program for U of T staff and librarians.
Since joining the University of Toronto in 2010, Brat has distinguished himself as a collaborative leader in labour relations for the more than 25,000 individuals whose talents and efforts power the University of Toronto. Bringing creativity, respect, and strategic thinking to all contexts, Brat works diligently with his team, colleagues, and external advisors to arrive at solutions that support the University’s interests, as well as the unique needs of each employee group and the diverse roles and responsibilities that our employees hold.
His recent collaboration with Chief Administrative Officers, academics, and Human Resources professionals to successfully conclude a significant round of negotiations with the United Steelworkers (USW) Local 1998 Staff-Appointed unit exemplifies his drive to reach mutually beneficial outcomes for all parties. Moreover, Brat proved invaluable to the University’s successful negotiations with the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) 3261 and CUPE 3902, Unit 3, demonstrating resourcefulness and skill throughout multiple rounds of bargaining.
Kelly Hannah-Moffat, Vice-President, People Strategy, Equity & Culture, has worked closely with Brat for over six years. “I continue to be impressed with the creativity, strategic thinking, and profound commitment to collaboration that he brings to every context, from meetings with University administration, academics, and union leadership to the bargaining table.”
The Vice-President and Principal of the University of Toronto Mississauga, Alexandra Gillespie, commended Brat for his “deep knowledge of his subject and his willingness to speak frankly, problem-solve together with colleagues, and work tirelessly for the right solution.”
In addition to his work within PSEC and at the bargaining table, Brat has been sharing his expertise in labour relations and strategic human resources management since 2017 as an instructor at the Centre for Industrial Relations & Human Resources within the Faculty of Arts & Science, teaching with dedication while being committed to enhancing and improving the educational experience of the students.