Employee Relations Specialist
Hybrid Working :
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced Employee Relations (ER) Specialist or Advisor to manage a high volume of complex and high-risk ER cases end-to-end. This role requires a proactive professional with deep knowledge of UK employment law and best-practice HR policies, capable of delivering impartial and sensitive workplace investigations while supporting senior stakeholders with expert guidance.
Key Responsibilities
*Manage complex ER cases, including disciplinary, grievance, whistleblowing, and performance issues, from initiation to resolution.
*Conduct thorough and impartial workplace investigations, ensuring compliance with legal and organisational standards.
*Advise and coach senior managers on ER matters, risk mitigation, and policy application.
*Maintain confidentiality and integrity when handling sensitive information.
*Contribute to the development and implementation of ER policies and training materials.
*Support collective consultation processes in unionised environments where applicable.
*Apply a pragmatic, commercially focused approach to ER, balancing legal compliance with business objectives and employee engagement.
Essential Criteria
*Significant experience as an ER Specialist or Advisor within a fast-paced or large organisation.
*Deep knowledge of UK employment law, ACAS codes of practice, and HR best practices.
*Proven ability to manage complex investigations and provide expert ER advice.
*Strong communication, negotiation, and influencing skills.
*CIPD qualified (Level 5 minimum; Level 7 desirable) or equivalent experience.
Desirable Criteria
*Experience in a heavily unionised environment and managing collective consultations.
*Accredited mediation skills or experience in formal workplace mediation.
*Experience in policy development and ER training delivery.