Interim ER lead

Oakleaf Partnership; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading not-for-profit organisation in Greater London is seeking an experienced Employee Relations Lead to drive their ER strategy. The role involves managing union relationships, overseeing organisational change, and ensuring compliance with UK employment law. Ideal candidates will have senior-level ER experience and strong stakeholder management skills. This contract position, offering £600 per day, has the potential for extension or permanent placement.

Qualifications

• Proven senior-level Employee Relations experience within a large or complex organisation.
• Hands-on experience managing union relationships and consultations is essential.
• Experience leading or advising on organisational change and restructures.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Employee Relations strategy aligned with business objectives.
• Manage relationships with staff representatives and unions.
• Oversee organisational change processes and consultations.
• Partner with the Chief People Officer on high-profile ER cases.
• Ensure ER policies are compliant and fit for purpose.
• Work with ER Manager to deliver a fair employee experience.

Skills

Employee Relations expertise

Stakeholder management

Union relationship management

Communication skills

UK employment law knowledge

Job description

Employee Relations Lead

Contract | £600 per day (Inside IR35) Hybrid - Central London (3 days on-site) Start: ASAP - ideally before Christmas / early January Initial contract to April 2025 (potential to extend or go permanent)

The Opportunity

A leading not-for-profit organisation is undergoing an exciting period of transformation within its People Operations function. As part of this, they are establishing a dedicated Employee Relations (ER) team and are seeking an experienced Employee Relations Lead to help shape and deliver the next phase of their ER strategy. This is a key leadership role - ideal for someone who thrives on building structure, influencing at a senior level, and driving positive employee engagement across a complex organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and shape the organisation's Employee Relations strategy, ensuring alignment with overall business objectives.
• Manage and strengthen relationships with staff representatives and unions, working in line with existing agreements.
• Oversee organisational change processes, including collective and individual consultations and restructures.
• Partner closely with the Chief People Officer on complex and high‑profile ER cases.
• Ensure all ER policies, procedures, and practices are fit for purpose and legally compliant.
• Work collaboratively with a capable ER Manager and wider People Operations team to deliver a consistent, fair, and engaging employee experience.

About You

• Proven senior-level Employee Relations experience, ideally within a large or complex organisation.
• Strong, hands‑on experience managing union relationships and collective consultations, this is essential.
• A track record of leading or advising on organisational change, restructures, and consultation processes.
• Excellent knowledge of UK employment law and best practice.
• Strong stakeholder management, influencing, and communication skills.
• A proactive, collaborative, and solutions‑focused approach.

Why Apply?

This is a fantastic opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of a respected, purpose-driven organisation. You'll have the autonomy to set direction, the support of a strong team, and the scope to make a real impact.