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- Tasks: Lead employee relations strategy and ensure a positive work environment for our diverse community.
- Company: Join the University of Southampton, a top 1% global research university and Russell Group member.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous holiday allowance, and access to health and fitness facilities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a supportive culture that values diversity and continuous improvement.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in employee relations with knowledge of UK employment law; Level 7 qualification preferred.
- Other info: Interviews on 18th July 2025; open to flexible working arrangements.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Job Description
The University of Southampton is a leading research-intensive University, a founding member of the prestigious Russell Group, and sits within the top 1% of universities worldwide.
Our people are our University: they are at the heart of everything we do and the impact we make on a local to global scale. The University of Southampton is seeking an exceptional leader to join our Human Resources Department as Head of Employee Relations. This is a pivotal role, setting the strategic direction for a vital function that ensures a positive and progressive working environment for our diverse university community.
About The Role
As Head of Employee Relations, you’ll lead the delivery of customer-focused ER services. You'll guide and modernise our industrial relations strategy and ensure our practices align with employment law and best practice.
In This Influential Role, You’ll
- Shape and deliver a University-wide Employee Relations strategy.
- Build and sustain constructive relationships with recognised Trade Unions.
- Act as Joint Secretary to our Joint Negotiation Committees.
- Lead a high-performing ER team and first-line HR support service.
- Provide expert guidance on complex, high-risk ER matters to senior leaders.
- Drive digital transformation in service delivery, including our move to ServiceNow.
About You
You are a confident leader with a proven track record in strategic employee relations and experience of managing complex ER cases in large, matrixed organisations. You bring:
- In depth knowledge of UK employment law and its application
- The ability to lead and manage large teams in a dynamic environment.
- A passion for continuous improvement and delivering high-quality, people-focused services.
- Level 7 or above professional qualification or equivalent experience.
Previous experience of building and managing relationships with Trades Union representatives in a public sector or HEI setting is desirable but not essential
Why Join Us?
We are committed to building an inclusive, respectful, and supportive environment where everyone can thrive. We value diversity and believe a truly representative workforce helps us better meet our goals. We especially welcome applications from individuals who are currently underrepresented in our community, including those from Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic backgrounds, lower socio-economic groups, LGBTQ+ communities, or those with a disability.
Based at our lively Highfield campus, you will have access to our sports complex, and lots of social and green spaces. Committed to supporting our staff, we are open to a flexible working approach with a mix of home and office working. We consider applicants that wish to work flexibly and those who have taken a career break.
As well as additional benefits, such as a generous holiday allowance (44 days including bank holidays and closure days), we will support your long-term future too, with access to the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS)*, subsidised health and fitness facilities and a range of discounts. All our benefits can be viewed here
To apply, please complete an online application and attach your CV and a cover letter (no more than 500 words) detailing how your skills and experience match the skills required for the role.
Please note that interviews for this role will take place on Friday 18th July 2025. Interviews will consist of a formal interview and an opportunity to engage with key stakeholders.
If you would like to discuss this role in more detail, please contact Roberta Head, Director of Client Services on R.I.Head@soton.ac.uk\\n#J-18808-Ljbffr
Head of Employee Relations employer: University of South Hampton
Contact Detail:
University of South Hampton Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Employee Relations
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the University of Southampton's values and mission. Understanding their commitment to diversity and inclusion will help you align your approach during discussions and interviews, showcasing how you can contribute to their positive working environment.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees in similar roles within the university sector. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the culture and expectations of the role, as well as potential challenges you might face.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your experience in managing complex employee relations cases. Highlighting your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills will demonstrate your capability to lead the ER team effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on recent changes in UK employment law and best practices in employee relations. Being knowledgeable about current trends will not only impress during the interview but also show your commitment to continuous improvement in the field.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Employee Relations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Head of Employee Relations position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, so you can tailor your application accordingly.
Craft a Tailored Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses how your experience aligns with the role's requirements. Highlight your knowledge of UK employment law, leadership experience, and any relevant achievements in employee relations.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise your previous roles that involved strategic employee relations, managing complex cases, and working with Trade Unions. Use specific examples to demonstrate your impact in these areas.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of South Hampton
✨Understand the University’s Values
Before your interview, take some time to research the University of Southampton's values and mission. This will help you align your answers with their commitment to inclusivity and support for diverse communities.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a candidate for Head of Employee Relations, it's crucial to highlight your leadership skills. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully led teams and managed complex employee relations cases in previous roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Employment Law
Given the role's focus on UK employment law, ensure you are up-to-date with current legislation. Be ready to discuss how you have applied this knowledge in past situations, particularly in relation to industrial relations strategies.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement
Since the role involves building relationships with Trade Unions and other stakeholders, think about your approach to stakeholder engagement. Prepare to discuss how you would foster constructive relationships and handle negotiations effectively.
