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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead employee relations strategy and manage change initiatives in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join a leading international transportation organisation with around 30,000 employees.
- Benefits: Enjoy a flexible work schedule with remote options and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on employee relations while working in a supportive, innovative culture.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR leadership, stakeholder management, and organisational change is essential.
- Other info: This role involves occasional regional travel and offers a chance to shape company culture.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Job Description
Head of Employee Relations
Location: Newcastle (4 days per week) with occasional regional travel
Industry: International Transportation
Organisation Scale: c.30,000 employees
An outstanding opportunity has arisen to join a leading international transportation organisation as Head of Employee Relations.
This is a pivotal role within the People & Culture leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief People Officer (CPO) and overseeing a small, high-performing team.
As a senior HR leader, you will partner with key stakeholders across the business to shape and deliver a cohesive, inclusive employee relations strategy. You’ll also contribute to the development of the wider HR and people agenda at both operational and group levels.
Key Responsibilities:
- Act as a trusted advisor to Directors and the senior management team on complex employee relations matters.
- Lead and manage organisational change initiatives, including restructures and TUPE processes.
- Design and implement an effective industrial relations (IR) strategy.
- Build and embed a compelling Employee Value Proposition (EVP).
- Provide expert guidance and coaching to HR leads and Managing Directors across the business.
- Deliver training on employee relations, workplace ethics, and relevant regulations.
About You:
- Proven experience influencing and partnering with senior stakeholders in complex, fast-paced, multi-site environments.
- Demonstrated success managing large-scale change and organisational transformation.
- Strategic thinker with a pragmatic, hands-on approach.
- Strong analytical skills and a solutions-focused mindset.
- High emotional intelligence with the ability to navigate sensitive issues with discretion and diplomacy.
This role offers the chance to shape the employee relations landscape in a dynamic, people-focused organisation committed to innovation and continuous improvement.
Head of Employee Relations employer: BIE Executive
Contact Detail:
BIE Executive Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Employee Relations
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the HR and employee relations field. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with individuals who may have insights into the role or the organisation. Building these relationships can provide you with valuable information and potentially a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the company’s current employee relations strategies and any recent changes they’ve implemented. This knowledge will not only help you understand their needs but also allow you to tailor your discussions during interviews, showcasing how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed complex employee relations issues in the past. Highlight your strategic thinking and hands-on approach, as these are key qualities they are looking for in a candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and best practices in employee relations and industrial relations strategies. Being well-versed in current topics will demonstrate your commitment to continuous improvement and innovation, which is essential for this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Employee Relations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in employee relations, particularly in complex environments. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to influence senior stakeholders and manage organisational change.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for employee relations and how your strategic thinking aligns with the company's goals. Mention your experience with industrial relations strategies and your approach to building an Employee Value Proposition.
Showcase Relevant Skills: Emphasise your analytical skills and solutions-focused mindset in both your CV and cover letter. Provide examples of how you've navigated sensitive issues with discretion and diplomacy in previous roles.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, thoroughly proofread your documents. Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, and that your writing is clear and professional. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at BIE Executive
✨Understand the Company Culture
Before your interview, take some time to research the company's culture and values. This will help you align your answers with what they prioritise, especially in terms of employee relations and inclusivity.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Given the nature of the role, expect questions that require you to demonstrate your experience in managing complex employee relations issues. Prepare specific examples from your past where you've successfully navigated similar challenges.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
As a senior HR leader, it's crucial to exhibit your ability to think strategically. Be ready to discuss how you would approach designing and implementing an effective industrial relations strategy tailored to their organisation.
✨Highlight Your Emotional Intelligence
This role requires high emotional intelligence, so be prepared to discuss how you've handled sensitive situations in the past. Share examples that showcase your discretion and diplomacy when dealing with difficult employee relations matters.
