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- Tasks: Lead and shape the long-term Industrial Relations strategy and engage with trade unions.
- Company: Dynamic organisation focused on employee engagement and transformation.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in shaping workplace relations and driving positive change.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in trade union negotiations and strong knowledge of employment law.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team that values strategic thinking and innovative solutions.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About the Role
I am looking for an experienced and strategic Industrial Relations leader to shape and deliver our long-term approach to employee and trade union engagement. This role plays a critical part in supporting organisational transformation, ensuring strong governance, and fostering collaborative, productive relationships with trade unions.
You will act as the organisation's senior IR expert, advising leadership on risk, compliance, and labour market developments, while leading collective bargaining, negotiations, and dispute resolution. Working closely with HR, Legal, and operational leaders, you will ensure industrial relations strategy aligns with our wider People and Culture ambitions and transformation agenda. This is a high-impact role for someone who thrives in complex environments and can balance organisational priorities with positive workforce outcomes.
Responsibilities
- Lead and deliver the organisation's long-term Industrial Relations strategy
- Act as the primary senior contact for trade unions and employee representatives
- Lead collective bargaining and complex negotiations
- Manage disputes, grievances, and mediation to avoid escalation
- Advise senior leaders on IR risk, employment law, and labour market trends
- Ensure full compliance with employment law, governance, and documentation standards
- Partner with HR, Legal, and operational leaders to support change and workforce impacts
About You
- Passionate about Industrial Relations and building constructive union relationships
- Extensive senior-level experience in trade union negotiations and collective bargaining
- Strong knowledge of employment law and IR frameworks
- Confident influencer, communicator, and negotiator
- Strategic thinker with a pragmatic, solutions-focused approach
Qualifications & Experience
- Degree-level qualification (preferred) or equivalent professional experience
- Proven senior-level IR leadership experience
- Excellent negotiation, communication, and conflict resolution skills
Industrial Relations Advisor in Birmingham employer: Akkodis
Contact Detail:
Akkodis Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Industrial Relations Advisor in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industrial relations field. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself to potential employers. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s recent IR strategies and challenges. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their needs. We want you to shine, so practice common interview questions and have your own questions ready to show your interest!
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. We recommend mentioning something specific from your conversation to remind them why you’re the perfect fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we often have exclusive roles listed there that you won’t find anywhere else. Let’s get you that dream job together!
We think you need these skills to ace Industrial Relations Advisor in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in industrial relations. We want to see how your skills align with the role, especially in areas like collective bargaining and trade union engagement.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of your successes in previous roles. We love to see quantifiable results, like successful negotiations or improved relationships with trade unions.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly see why you’re a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role without any hiccups!
How to prepare for a job interview at Akkodis
✨Know Your IR Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in industrial relations and employment law. Being able to discuss recent developments confidently will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also passionate about the field.
✨Prepare for Negotiation Scenarios
Think through potential negotiation scenarios you might face in the role. Prepare your strategies and be ready to discuss how you would handle complex bargaining situations, as this will demonstrate your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since this role involves a lot of interaction with trade unions and senior leaders, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and persuasively. Consider doing mock interviews with a friend to refine your communication style and ensure you come across as confident and engaging.
✨Align with Company Values
Research the company’s culture and values, especially regarding employee engagement and union relationships. Be prepared to discuss how your approach to industrial relations aligns with their People and Culture ambitions, showing that you’re a great fit for their team.
