Answer: The correct answer is "mediator; arbitrator".
Explanation: When negotiations appeared to be going in the wrong direction, an HVAC systems company and its union representatives agreed to bring in a mediator. This expert would serve as a facilitator to get negotiations back on track; whereas, if a arbitrator were solicited by both union and management, that person's decision in the situation would be binding.
A mediator is not the same as an arbitrator, the mediator is a third party that is in charge of facilitating and promoting communication and dialogue in order to finalize the negotiations according to the interests of each party.
On the other hand, an arbitrator is a third party that is in charge of listening to the interests and requests of each party and resolving the situation through an objective solution that is binding and obligatory for the parties.
