Move Forward
When negotiations get stuck, we help bring parties together
with clarity, trust, and real resolution.
Mediation and resolution for collective bargaining
led by a former SERB mediator.
Improved Outcomes
A Better Way Through the Stalemate
You’re at the table because you care about people, about fairness, about doing the right thing.
But sometimes, even with the best intentions, negotiations stall.
We believe conflict doesn’t have to mean confrontation.
We create space for clarity, respect, and practical solutions that everyone can live with.
Whether you need a steady hand to guide discussion, or a final step to break a deadlock, we’re here to help you move forward—without courtrooms, finger-pointing, or delay.
You Have Options
Two Approaches.
One Goal: Resolution.
KH Mediation offers a unique approach to mediation.
Traditional Mediation
A facilitative, familiar approach, like the process used by the Ohio State Employment Relations Board (SERB).
We help both sides identify common ground, work through points of tension, and arrive at voluntary agreement.
This approach is best for early-stage conversations or when both parties are ready to engage in good faith.
Enhanced Mediation™
A unique process designed by Ken Hickey that adds something crucial to traditional mediation: closure.
If both sides agree, Enhanced Mediation allows out appointed Mediator to issue a final decision on unresolved terms, ensuring the process ends with a resolution, not a retreat.
Perfect for situations where negotiations have stalled, timelines are tight, or trust is strained.
Why Trust KH
How We're Different
Led by former SERB mediator and attorney Ken Hickey, KH Mediation offers flexible options to help unions and municipalities reach lasting agreements, even when talks stall.
Experienced & Neutral
Ken spent years mediating disputes as part of SERB. He knows the process, the personalities, and how to get things unstuck.
Attorney Perspective
With a legal background, Ken & Amy bring clarity and confidence to complex or sensitive issues.
Respected by Both Sides
Union leaders and municipal employers trust KH because we listen, we respect, and we delivers results.
Collaborative, Calm, Constructive
Conflict doesn’t rattle us- it's part of the process. We create the necessary space for solutions to emerge.
Meet the Team
Ken Hickey
Ken brings over 40 years of experience in law, labor relations, and business management. A graduate of Georgetown University Law Center and former JAG officer in the U.S. Navy, Ken became a partner at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius, where he spent 24 years representing clients across industries in labor law, negotiations, and benefits administration.
Since 1995, Ken has run a solo practice focused on business consulting, employment disputes, and corporate transactions, advising both individuals and companies.
Founder, Lead Mediator
Amy Tulk Grayem
[Team Member Name] is a skilled professional with extensive experience in [industry/field]. Passionate about [specific aspect of the job or industry], [he/she/they] deliver(s) exceptional results and drive(s) success for our clients.
Associate Mediator
Still not sure?
Get Answers to Common Questions
What types of disputes does KH Mediation handle?
KH Mediation specializes in public sector labor and employment disputes, including contract negotiations, grievance resolution, impasse mediation, and conflict between union leadership and management.
Why choose a mediator with legal experience?
Ken & Amy's legal backgrounds brings clarity to complex or sensitive issues. They understand both the letter of the law and the real-world pressures parties face and helps craft agreements that hold up under scrutiny.
How is mediation different from arbitration?
Mediation is a voluntary, collaborative process. KH doesn’t issue rulings or impose outcomes. Instead, we facilitate conversations that lead to mutual agreements both sides can live with.
What’s KH’s approach to conflict?
Calm. Collaborative. Constructive. Ken’s presence de-escalates tension. We listen deeply, honoring the people in the room, and helping parties make progress without pressure or posturing.
What’s the benefit of using KH Mediation instead of resolving things internally?
When internal efforts stall or tempers flare, an experienced neutral party can reframe the problem, clarify priorities, and create space for resolution, saving time, money, and morale.
Does KH Mediation only work with municipalities?
While much of our work is with public sector clients: cities, townships, counties, and unions, we work for any organization needing experienced, neutral mediation support.
