Industrial Relations Manager

Millbank Holdings Ltd; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading civil engineering firm in the UK is seeking an experienced Industrial Relations Manager to oversee the industrial relations strategy on a major £600 million project. The role involves negotiating collective agreements, liaising with trade unions, and ensuring compliance with employment law. The ideal candidate will have over 8 years of experience in a similar capacity and possess strong negotiation and problem-solving skills. A competitive package and career progression opportunities are offered.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years’ experience in industrial relations within large-scale civil engineering or infrastructure projects.
• Strong knowledge of UK employment law, collective bargaining, and dispute resolution.
• Proven ability to manage relationships with trade unions and multiple stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the project’s industrial relations strategy.
• Act as the primary liaison between management and trade unions.
• Negotiate and manage collective agreements.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Degree in Human Resources, Industrial Relations, Law, or related field

Job description

Initial Questions

• Can you demonstrate experience managing industrial relations on major civil infrastructure projects involving multiple trade unions?
• Do you have a strong track record in negotiating and implementing collective agreements in compliance with UK employment law?
• What strategies have you used to maintain workforce harmony and resolve disputes on complex, multi-contractor projects?

The Opportunity

Join a landmark £600 million civil infrastructure project that will transform West Cumbria and set new standards for collaboration and workforce engagement. Our client is a leading organisation delivering complex, high-profile developments across the UK. This role offers the chance to influence industrial relations strategy on a project of national importance, ensuring harmonious working relationships and compliance with employment legislation. In return, you’ll enjoy a competitive package, career progression, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact.

Your duties and responsibilities

We are seeking an experienced Industrial Relations Manager to develop and implement strategies that foster positive relationships between management, employees, and trade unions. You will play a key role in maintaining workforce stability, resolving disputes, and ensuring compliance with employment law and project agreements.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the project’s industrial relations strategy in line with UK employment law and client requirements.
• Act as the primary liaison between management, trade unions, and workforce representatives.
• Negotiate and manage collective agreements, ensuring alignment with project objectives.
• Monitor compliance with labour agreements, working conditions, and employment standards.
• Resolve disputes and grievances promptly and effectively.
• Provide guidance to senior management on industrial relations risks and mitigation strategies.
• Support workforce engagement initiatives and promote a collaborative culture.
• Prepare reports and updates for senior leadership and stakeholders.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Human Resources, Industrial Relations, Law, or related field.
• Minimum 8 years’ experience in industrial relations within large-scale civil engineering or infrastructure projects.
• Strong knowledge of UK employment law, collective bargaining, and dispute resolution.
• Proven ability to manage relationships with trade unions and multiple stakeholders.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Nice to Have

• Experience in nuclear or high-hazard environments.
• Familiarity with major project agreements and frameworks.
• CIPD qualification or equivalent.

The Setting for the Role

The role will be mainly office based with trips to site if required. A safety induction will be provided.

Millbank Holdings Ltd is an equal opportunities employer committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workforce. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals, regardless of background, and encourage candidates from underrepresented groups to apply. We are proud to be a member of the Disability Confident Scheme, and we are committed to ensuring an accessible and supportive recruitment process for everyone. If you require any adjustments at any stage, please let us know and we’ll do our best to accommodate.

Millbank operates as both an Employment Agency and an Employment Business.