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- Tasks: Support managers with employee relations, case management, and HR policy guidance.
- Company: Join a leading utilities sector company focused on positive workplace culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model and the potential for contract extension.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in employee relations while developing your HR skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR or employee relations, strong communication, and case management skills required.
- Other info: Inclusive environment that values diversity and supports personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Warwick/Hybrid
Contract: 6-8 weeks possibility for extension
Are you passionate about fostering positive workplace relationships and navigating complex employee issues? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you! Our client, a leader in the utilities sector, is seeking a dedicated Employee Relations Specialist for a temporary contract of 8 weeks.
Why This Role Matters:
As an Employee Relations Specialist, you will play a crucial role in providing high-quality case management support that is both customer-focused and responsive. Your expertise will guide line managers in navigating HR policies and practices, ensuring a harmonious and efficient workplace.
Key Responsibilities:
- Elevating the brand of the ER team through the provision of a customer focused, visible, and timely professional service with delivery against all aspects of Case Management.
- Ensure consistency and efficiency in the application of ER related policies; coaching managers, setting and updating policy providing central coaching and steer to People team across the wider business.
- In attendance at Disciplinary Appeal hearings and Stage 3 of complex sickness absence cases supporting Hearing Managers with best practice insight to enable fair and reasonable decisions to be made.
- Supporting and coaching managers in handling complex sickness cases at all levels up to and including potential medical redeployment / ill health dismissal (including Group Income Protection claims) and / or sickness absence stage 3 dismissal; advice on reasonable adjustments.
- Supporting and coaching Managers in the handling of performance improvement cases in the build up to a PIP Stage 3 hearing.
- Advise on DBH / grievance investigations as required and coach respective parties in approach - eg manager, investigator, People Advisor etc. in exceptional cases based on risk profile of case, may attend earlier stage meetings.
- Complete review of cases leading to dismissal by the reason and provide coaching and feedback to regional People Advisor on risks.
- Complete review of allegations drafted by People Advisors disciplinary cases prior to disciplinary hearings taking place.
- Deliver related learning and development / up skilling programmes.
- Champion ER best practice through delivery of policy & practice awareness sessions.
- As directed, and on occasion facilitate appropriate protected or without prejudice conversations, liaise with ACAS and internal stakeholders to deliver settlement agreements.
- Proactive contribution to meetings and technical reviews of cases and lessons learnt to share learning.
- Proactive contribution at Management meetings (People Partner and other) to share trends and insights.
- Provide guidance to People Advisors on best practice to ensure consistency of approach.
- Lead and support in case management project work or policy & process reviews as required.
- To work with ER colleagues, Centres of Excellence and wider HR team to support the delivery of an effective case management service.
- Support & contribute to continual improvement.
- Involvement in collective bargaining matters such as ONOF forum, policy working group and pay negotiations as and when required.
- Foster positive working relationships with our trade union.
Key experience and knowledge:
- Well versed in leading, engaging and managing multiple people at different levels.
- Experienced HR Generalist or Employee Relations Specialist able to manage complex cases and provide advice based on best practice, current legal guidance with commercial option as well as support for Case Management related activity.
- Understanding and experience of external good practice ie ACAS requirements for such policies / processes.
- Experience of facilitating and managing multiple complex hearings / case work up to and including dismissal.
- Experience of advising & coaching on the management of sickness cases up to and including dismissal and Ill health Retirement.
- Experience of advising & coaching on the management of Performance Improvement cases.
- Experience of advising & coaching on the management of Grievance and DBH cases, including investigations.
- A thorough knowledge of our Policy and Procedures.
- Ability to work under pressure and deliver high quality work in a timely manner.
- Ability to manage a disparate workload, multi-task and prioritise to offer a consistently high level of delivery.
- Ability to effectively and proactively manage stakeholder relationships at all levels in association with case work.
- Ability to confidently challenge current ways of working and influence and encourage change.
- Clear and confident communicator (verbal and written) with commercial acumen and ability to adapt communication style in given situations.
- Experience of contentious matters in both an internal and external context including early conciliation, settlement agreements and employment tribunals.
- Delivery & Customer focused.
- Resilient and tenacious.
- Team player focused on value creation.
Join our client in shaping a positive workplace culture. Submit your application today and embark on an exciting journey to elevate employee relations within the utilities industry!
Contact Detail:
Pontoon Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Employee Relations Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest HR policies and best practices, especially those related to employee relations. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former Employee Relations Specialists to gain insights into the role and the company culture. This can provide you with valuable information that may give you an edge during the selection process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential scenario-based questions by thinking through complex case management situations you've handled in the past. Be ready to discuss your approach and the outcomes, as this will showcase your practical experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your understanding of the utilities sector and its unique challenges during your discussions. Showing that you are aware of industry-specific issues can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Employee Relations Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in employee relations and HR. Use keywords from the job description, such as 'case management', 'coaching managers', and 'complex sickness cases' to demonstrate your fit for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for fostering positive workplace relationships. Mention specific experiences where you've successfully navigated complex employee issues and how you can contribute to the company's goals.
Showcase Relevant Skills: Emphasise skills that are crucial for the role, such as communication, stakeholder management, and resilience. Provide examples of how you've effectively managed multiple cases or influenced change in previous positions.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is essential for an Employee Relations Specialist.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pontoon
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of an Employee Relations Specialist. Familiarise yourself with case management, HR policies, and the importance of fostering positive workplace relationships.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked about how you would handle specific employee relations scenarios. Prepare examples from your past experience that demonstrate your ability to manage complex cases and provide effective coaching.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a clear and confident communicator is essential for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Be ready to discuss how you adapt your communication style to different stakeholders.
✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of Best Practices
Be prepared to discuss current legal guidance and best practices in employee relations. Show that you are well-versed in ACAS requirements and can apply this knowledge to real-world situations.
