Employee Relations Manager

Job Title: Employee Relations Manager (Change Management)Location: London (Hybrid - 2 days a week on-site)Contract: 6-Month Fixed-TermSalary: £52,000 - £57,000

We are recruiting an experienced Employee Relations (ER) Manager to join a prestigious higher education institution in London. This role, offered on a 6-month fixed-term contract, presents an exciting opportunity to lead and shape the ER strategy during a significant period of organisational transformation.

Role OverviewThe ER Manager will play a key role in addressing complex employee relations issues, supporting workforce transitions, and promoting best practices in a dynamic change management environment. The position requires close collaboration with trade unions, senior leadership, and other stakeholders to ensure the smooth implementation of change initiatives and foster positive industrial relations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Employee Relations Strategy: Lead the development and execution of ER strategies to address challenges arising from organisational change, ensuring compliance with HR policies and legal frameworks.
• Case Management: Manage complex ER cases, including grievances, disciplinaries, redundancies, and performance issues, while fostering a positive employee experience.
• Trade Union Consultation: Serve as the primary liaison with trade unions, facilitating negotiations and maintaining constructive relationships to resolve conflicts and uphold positive industrial relations.
• Change Management Support: Provide expert advice to leaders and managers on effective change management practices, ensuring employees are supported during transitions.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Partner with internal stakeholders to ensure organisational changes align with HR policies and promote consistency across teams.
• Compliance and Best Practices: Uphold compliance with employment law and HR policies while championing best practices to maintain a fair and inclusive workplace.
• Cultural Development: Proactively address workplace concerns, facilitate clear communication, and promote a cohesive, engaged workforce.

Key Requirements:

• ER Expertise: Extensive experience in managing complex employee relations issues, ideally within higher education or similarly complex organisations.
• Change Management: Demonstrated success in leading change management processes within evolving and challenging environments.
• Trade Union Relations: Proven experience consulting and negotiating with trade unions, with the ability to navigate sensitive situations professionally and effectively.
• Legal and Policy Knowledge: Strong understanding of UK employment law, industrial relations frameworks, and HR best practices.
• Communication Skills: Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and engage diverse stakeholders.
• Professionalism and Discretion: Ability to handle confidential and sensitive matters with empathy, tact, and professionalism.
• Organisational Skills: Proficiency in managing multiple priorities and initiatives effectively.
• Higher Education Experience: Strongly preferred, though not essential.

Why Join the Team?This position offers an outstanding opportunity to make a tangible impact at a leading institution during an exciting period of change. You will join a supportive and inclusive environment, collaborating with a dynamic HR team to drive organisational transformation and ensure a positive employee experience.

How to Apply:If you have a background in employee relations, change management, and trade union consultation, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your experience and what makes you the ideal candidate for this role.