At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to promote a positive work environment and resolve employee issues.
- Company: Join a passionate team dedicated to enhancing employee experiences across multiple markets.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model with 4 days onsite and 1 day remote, plus travel opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in fostering a culture of respect and inclusion while developing your HR skills.
- Qualifications: BA/BSc in HR or related field, with at least 2 years in employee relations and UK employment law expertise.
- Other info: This role requires strong leadership, communication skills, and the ability to navigate multi-jurisdictional environments.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Role summary
We are passionate about providing the best employment experiences for people at work at all touchpoints of the employee life cycle. We are committed to delivering the best employee experience to our People, connecting everyone, and nurturing high engagement!
The People Relations Specialist guides our People Relations team in promoting a positive work environment, resolving employee issues, and supporting our commitment to a culture of respect and inclusion.
We are seeking a knowledgeable and experienced People Relations Specialist to oversee and guide a team of specialists in managing employee relations across multiple markets. This role requires a deep understanding of UK employment law (essential) and knowledge of
employment practices in key international markets, such as China, USA, Ireland, France, and Germany (highly desirable). You will be responsible for leading the team, managing complex cases, and ensuring that all practices align with legal and organisational standards.
Our ideal candidate should be a strong communicator that is keen to take ownership of People Relations activities with a passion for learning, delivering results and making a positive impact.
Qualifications, Experience & Skills
• BA/BSc degree, or work experience equivalent, in human resources, psychology,
business, change management or other relevant field.
• CIPD Qualification (Level 5 or higher preferred) or equivalent experience.
• Experience of having worked in employee relations, at business partner level, similar or above, minmum of 2 years experience.
• Extensive knowledge and experience in UK employment law (essential).
• Familiarity with employment laws in China, USA, Ireland, France, Germany, or other European markets (highly desirable).
• Significant experience in managing complex employee relations cases, ideally within a multinational or multi-site organization.
• Strong leadership and coaching skills, with proven experience managing a team.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a multi-jurisdictional environment, balancing legal requirements and cultural differences.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with the capacity to influence senior stakeholders.
• Proficiency in HR information systems, ideally Success Factors, and case management software.
Attributes
• Demonstrates high integrity and professionalism at all times.
• Positive and enthusiastic, “can do” attitude.
• Solutions focused.
• Structured, organised and methodical work style.
• Team player, supportive and helpful to others.
• Self-starter, able to pick up tasks and deliver outcomes.
• Evidence of learning new skills, curiosity and self-development.
• Excellent tech skills.
The ideal candidate should have the ability to counsel, negotiate and advise others in a specialist/technical area of expertise. They should be able to create and maintain goodwill and take a thorough, systematic and logical approach to situations. The ability to communicate and the persistence to see a job through to conclusion are important aspects of the function. The person fulfilling the role should be confident, enthusiastic, approachable, accommodating and unassuming.
*Please note, this role is based onsite at our London offices 4 days per week, with 1 day per week working from home. Travel to other CMS sites in the UK, Ireland and potentially Internationally will be required.*
People Relations Specialist employer: CMS Distribution
Contact Detail:
CMS Distribution Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land People Relations Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with UK employment law and the specific laws of the other countries mentioned in the job description. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to understanding the complexities of employee relations across different markets.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your experience in managing complex employee relations cases, especially in a multinational context. Be prepared to discuss specific examples where you've successfully navigated challenges, as this will showcase your problem-solving abilities and leadership skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Emphasize your communication and negotiation skills during networking opportunities or interviews. Consider practicing scenarios where you had to influence stakeholders or resolve conflicts, as these are crucial for the People Relations Specialist role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your enthusiasm for continuous learning and self-development. Mention any recent courses or certifications related to HR or employee relations that you've completed, as this aligns with the company's values and demonstrates your proactive approach.
We think you need these skills to ace People Relations Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the People Relations Specialist position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and qualifications required, especially the emphasis on UK employment law and international practices.
Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to highlight relevant experience in employee relations, particularly any roles where you've managed complex cases or worked in a multi-jurisdictional environment. Emphasize your knowledge of UK employment law and any international experience.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for creating positive work environments and your commitment to employee engagement. Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your leadership skills and problem-solving abilities.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, make sure to emphasize your strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills. Mention any experience with HR information systems and your ability to influence senior stakeholders, as these are crucial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at CMS Distribution
✨Showcase Your Knowledge of Employment Law
Make sure to highlight your understanding of UK employment law during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific cases or scenarios where you applied this knowledge effectively.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Since this role involves guiding a team, share examples of your leadership experience. Talk about how you've managed complex employee relations cases and supported your team in achieving positive outcomes.
✨Emphasize Communication and Interpersonal Skills
As a People Relations Specialist, strong communication is key. Prepare to discuss how you've successfully navigated difficult conversations and built relationships with employees at all levels.
✨Be Ready for Cultural Sensitivity Questions
Given the international aspect of the role, be prepared to answer questions about how you would handle employee relations in different cultural contexts. Share any relevant experiences you have working in multi-jurisdictional environments.