Employee Relations Manager

Barclay Meade; Greater London; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK consultancy firm is seeking an Employee Relations Manager to oversee employee relations cases and develop strategies ensuring compliance with UK employment law. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in employee relations within a complex organization and strong communication skills. You will be responsible for advising management, analyzing ER trends, and supporting training initiatives to maintain a high-performing workplace.

Qualifications

• Experience in a dedicated Employee Relations role within a complex organization.
• Working knowledge of UK employment law and its practical application.
• Management of a variety of ER cases.
• Exposure to change management and organizational design projects.
• Experience with trade unions or employee forums is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Drive employee relations cases including disciplinary, grievance, and performance management.
• Provide advice to managers and HR on ER matters.
• Analyze ER trends to inform decision-making.
• Identify ER risks and recommend strategies.
• Support delivery of ER-related training to managers.
• Support organizational change initiatives.

Skills

Understanding of UK employment legislation

Strong communication skills

Judgement and discretion in resolving issues

Ability to interpret data

Strategic thinking

Collaboration skills

Leadership and initiative

Resilience and flexibility

Education

Degree/MBA qualification

Job description

Overview

This role is pivotal in managing employee relations (ER) cases for Global Operations, ensuring a fair, compliant, and high-performing workplace. You will advise on ER cases, develop ER strategies, and align with employment law and best practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive employee relations cases including disciplinary, grievance, performance management, absence, and appeals for global operations functions.
• Provide advice and coaching to managers and HR colleagues on ER matters, ensuring consistency and legal compliance.
• Analyze ER trends and metrics to inform decision-making and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Identify ER risks and recommend proactive strategies to mitigate potential legal or reputational issues as appropriate.
• Support the delivery of ER-related training to line managers to build confidence and capability in handling people matters.
• Support organisational change initiatives from an ER perspective.

Job Requirements

• Experience in a dedicated Employee Relations role within a complex, matrixed organisation.
• Strong working knowledge of UK employment law and its practical application.
• Experience managing a variety of ER cases.
• Exposure to change management and organisational design projects.
• Experience working with trade unions or employee forums is desirable.

Skills and Knowledge

• Deep understanding of UK employment legislation and case law.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence and negotiate effectively.
• Skilled in resolving complex and sensitive issues with sound judgement and discretion.
• Ability to interpret data and trends to inform ER strategy and interventions.
• Proven strategic thinking, with the ability to align ER practices with broader business and people strategies.
• Successful collaboration and relationship building across HR and the wider business.
• Possess initiative and leadership, acting as a role model for ethical behaviour and confidentiality.
• Resilient, flexible, and confident to work in a fast-paced, dynamic, and ambiguous environment.

Educational Qualifications

• Degree/MBA qualification.

If you have the necessary skills and experience, our client would love to hear from you. Apply now to become an integral part of their team and contribute to maintaining a high-performing workplace.