certified bargaining representative

A certified bargaining representative is an individual or organization, often a union, recognized by labor laws as the official negotiator for a group of employees in discussions with their employer. This certification means the representative has been elected by the workers and is authorized to negotiate terms such as wages, benefits, and working conditions on their behalf. This process helps ensure that employees have a collective voice in the workplace, making it easier to address their needs and concerns with management in a structured and formal manner.