Employee Relations & Policy Specialist

We Are Adam; Manchester; On-site; GBP 49,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

A forward-thinking organisation in Manchester is seeking an experienced Employee Relations Specialist to develop inclusive policies and guide change within a modern, people-first culture. The ideal candidate will leverage their deep understanding of UK employment law to influence stakeholders and foster ER practices. This permanent role offers a salary of up to £57,700, with the chance to make a significant impact across the business.

Qualifications

• Strong experience in a complex, multi-site or unionised environment.
• Solid grasp of UK employment law and policy frameworks.
• Proven ability to deliver pragmatic solutions.

Responsibilities

• Lead policy development and modernise Group People Policies.
• Advise and influence leaders on complex ER matters.
• Manage external providers for ER Case Management System.
• Collaborate with Trade Unions and Internal Comms.
• Drive improvement and keep pace with employment law developments.

Skills

Employee Relations background

Understanding of UK employment law

Ability to influence senior stakeholders

Excellent communication skills

Proactive mindset

Job description

Employee Relations Specialist – People Policies and Processes

Manchester

Salary up to £57,700

Permanent

We’re partnering with a well-respected organisation that’s investing in a modern, people-first culture — and we’re looking for an experienced Employee Relations Specialist to help make it happen.

This is a standout role for someone who loves being at the intersection of people, policy, and progress. You’ll be a go‑to expert on all things ER — from developing best‑in‑class policies to guiding ER change projects and managing the Group’s ER systems and frameworks.

What you’ll be doing

• Lead policy development: design, review, and modernise Group People Policies, processes and toolkits to keep them compliant, relevant and inclusive.
• Advise and influence: provide expert ER guidance to leaders and People Partners, helping navigate organisational change and complex ER matters.
• Own key relationships: manage the external provider for the Group ER Case Management System, ensuring smooth operation and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate widely: work with Trade Unions, Internal Comms, and Colleague Networks to implement change that lands well across the business.
• Drive improvement: keep pace with employment law developments, benchmark externally, and identify ways to strengthen ER practice and policy governance.
• Support at Group level: assist the Associate Director of Industrial Relations with union engagement and initiatives such as modern slavery compliance.

What we’re looking for

• Strong Employee Relations background in a complex, multi‑site or unionised environment.
• Solid grasp of UK employment law and policy frameworks.
• Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders and deliver pragmatic solutions.
• A proactive, improvement‑focused mindset with the confidence to challenge where needed.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to balance legal, commercial, and human considerations.

Why this opportunity stands out

You’ll be joining a progressive organisation that values expertise, autonomy, and fresh thinking. ER here is seen as a strategic enabler — and you’ll have the platform to make a real difference across the business.

If you’re an ER professional who thrives on shaping policy, guiding change, and building constructive relationships — we’d love to talk

Apply now to be considered for becoming part of this fantastic organisation.

Equity, diversity, and inclusion are integral to everything that we do. We are committed to these values, and they are central to our mission. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and communities, and we are more than happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments that you may require.