Strategic IR Lead for Major Infrastructure

Altrad UK, Ireland & Nordics; Bridgwater; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

Altrad UK, Ireland & Nordics seeks a Head of Industrial Relations to lead the MEH Programme’s workforce relations across the alliance. The role ensures constructive engagement with trade unions, adherence to collective agreements, and proactive resolution of workplace issues, while enabling site-level consistency with partner organisations.

The post requires extensive experience in unionised infrastructure environments, strong knowledge of ECSA or similar national agreements, and an ability to

Qualifications

• Significant experience leading industrial relations in unionised environments, ideally with alliance or JV complexity.
• Deep knowledge of national agreements governing mechanical and electrical construction work (ECSA).
• Confidence in high-stakes discussions with trade unions and workforce reps.
• Strategic mindset to anticipate risks and build long-term IR frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a strategic industrial relations framework for the alliance.
• Act as primary liaison with recognised trade unions and align with national/local agreements.
• Lead negotiations on pay, terms, and disputes in coordination with partner HR teams.
• Provide oversight for disciplinary, grievance and dispute processes with MEH Alliance HR teams.
• Represent MEH Programme in alliance forums and industry bodies.

Skills

Strategic IR

Union negotiations

Stakeholder management

Conflict resolution

Negotiation leadership

Change management

Job description

Altrad UK, Ireland & Nordics seeks a Head of Industrial Relations to lead the MEH Programme’s workforce relations across the alliance. The role ensures constructive engagement with trade unions, adherence to collective agreements, and proactive resolution of workplace issues, while enabling site-level consistency with partner organisations.

The post requires extensive experience in unionised infrastructure environments, strong knowledge of ECSA or similar national agreements, and an ability to