Strategic Employee Relations Partner – UK Depots

Arriva Group; Thurmaston; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Arriva Group is seeking an experienced Employee Relations Partner to shape and steer ER across UK depots. You will guide leaders and managers on complex matters, influence stakeholders, and deliver proactive, risk-aware solutions that support both people and business goals.

You’ll lead investigations, advise on disciplinaries and grievances, coach teams, and analyze ER data to spot trends. A strategic role with significant stakeholder interaction and change initiatives.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in an Employee Relations role handling complex and sensitive ER cases.
• Proven experience working in a unionised environment and building effective relationships with Trade Union representatives.
• Strong knowledge of UK employment legislation and its practical application.
• Excellent coaching, influencing, and stakeholder management skills.
• Analytical capability with experience producing ER metrics, trend analysis, and management reporting.

Responsibilities

• Lead investigations into complex and high-risk employee relations cases with fair, consistent outcomes and reduced risk.
• Provide expert guidance on disciplinaries, grievances, absence management, and performance issues.
• Support and coach HR and management teams on ER challenges.
• Analyse ER data to identify trends and provide management information.
• Develop policies, guidance, and initiatives in response to ER trends.
• Embed proactive case management frameworks with a risk-based approach to resolutions.
• Drive improvements to ER case files and data to cut volumes and improve efficiency.
• Foster strong relationships with operational leaders, HR colleagues, and Trade Union reps.

Skills

Employee Relations

Union relations

UK Employment Law

Stakeholder Management

ER Metrics

Job description

Arriva Group is seeking an experienced Employee Relations Partner to shape and steer ER across UK depots. You will guide leaders and managers on complex matters, influence stakeholders, and deliver proactive, risk-aware solutions that support both people and business goals.

You’ll lead investigations, advise on disciplinaries and grievances, coach teams, and analyze ER data to spot trends. A strategic role with significant stakeholder interaction and change initiatives.