Senior HR Advisor

Michael Page (UK); Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 48,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An established multi-academy trust in the UK seeks a Senior HR Advisor to lead employee relations, build strong union relationships, and support senior leadership. This role offers a salary of £48-50k, 32 days holiday, and hybrid working options. Ideal candidates will have substantial HR experience, particularly in education or unionized environments, and must hold a CIPD Level 5 qualification.

Benefits

32 days holiday plus bank holidays

Local Government Pension Scheme

Mileage reimbursement

Qualifications

• Strong HR generalist background in a complex or unionised environment.
• Extensive experience in employee relations including TUPE and safeguarding.
• Confident in working with senior leaders.

Responsibilities

• Lead on complex employee relations casework.
• Build strong relationships with trade unions.
• Act as a trusted advisor to Principals and Executive Leaders.

Skills

Employee relations expertise

Union negotiation skills

Decision-making abilities

CIPD Level 5

Education

CIPD Level 5 or equivalent experience

Job description

• Impactful role: shape HR across schools and build strong union relationships.
• Great package: £48-50k, 32 days holiday, pension, hybrid working.

About Our Client

The organisation is a well-established multi-academy trust committed to delivering exceptional education across the North of England. With a strong focus on student outcomes and values-driven leadership, the trust has grown significantly in recent years and now operates numerous primary and secondary academies. They are recognised for their collaborative culture, continuous improvement, and commitment to staff development, making them an employer of choice within the education sector.

Job Description

This is a senior-level advisory position, blending strategic input with hands-on delivery. You will:

• Lead on complex employee relations casework, including safeguarding, senior-level grievances, disciplinary, capability and absence management.
• Build strong relationships with trade unions, attending consultations and leading on TUPE, restructures and changes to terms and conditions.
• Act as a trusted advisor to Principals and Executive Leaders, ensuring consistent and compliant HR practice across schools.
• Support and mentor junior HR colleagues to strengthen capability in the region.
• Contribute to HR policy development and ensure best practice across the organisation.
• Support the team in recruitment for senior leadership roles (Vice Principal and above), advising on safer recruitment practices.

The Successful Applicant

A successful Senior HR Advisor should have:

• Strong HR generalist background, ideally in education or a complex, unionised environment (e.g., NHS, local authority).
• Extensive experience in employee relations, including TUPE, restructures, and safeguarding.
• Skilled in building positive trade union relationships and handling challenging negotiations.
• Confident and credible in working with senior leaders and making informed decisions.
• CIPD Level 5 or equivalent experience.
• Full driving licence and access to a car (business insurance required).

What's on Offer

• Salary: £48,000 - £50,000 (top of band for exceptional candidates).
• 32 days holiday plus bank holidays.
• Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Hybrid working (one day per week from home after induction).
• Mileage reimbursement for travel.

Additional information:

• Enhanced DBS required.
• Regular travel across North West schools is essential.

If you're ready to take the next step in your HR career, apply now to become a Senior HR Advisor and make a tangible impact in a rewarding role.