At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex employee relations cases and provide strategic HR guidance to senior leaders.
- Company: Join Network Rail, a vital organisation keeping the UK connected and moving.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, travel discounts, and a defined benefit pension scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to creating an inclusive workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on employee relations and shape the future of the railway industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR, strong business acumen, and ability to influence senior leaders.
The predicted salary is between 55596 - 65966 £ per year.
About Network Rail
We’re dedicated to keeping passengers and freight moving safely and efficiently across the country. When you join us, you’re not just part of a team – you’re part of something that matters to millions. We believe that our people are at the heart of what we do, and every role plays a vital part in building a better, more connected railway. We're committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We’re a Disability Confident Leader, and we’ll do everything we can to accommodate any needs throughout the recruitment process.
Vacancy Details
- Duration: Permanent
- Location: This role can be based in either Cardiff, Swansea or Newport.
- Contract: This role is a full-time post, flexible working patterns will be considered.
- Band & Salary: Band 3C £55,596 - £65,966
Brief Description
We are looking for a Senior HR Employee Relations and Industrial Relations Business Partner to join the business.
About the role
A Senior HR Employee Relations and Industrial Relations Business Partner serves as a strategic advisor to the business, leading on complex and high risk employee relations cases through to employment tribunal where required. The role combines deep expertise in employment law, internal policy, and organisational processes to provide pragmatic, commercially focused guidance to senior leaders. With a strong emphasis on industrial relations, they act as the organisation’s lead expert on union engagement, collective bargaining, and workforce strategy, proactively managing relationships with trade unions and employee representatives to maintain a stable and constructive industrial climate. They provide strategic oversight and hands on leadership during collective disputes, including ballots, negotiations, and potential industrial action, ensuring risks are anticipated, mitigated, and managed in line with legal and reputational considerations. The role involves analysing ER and IR data to identify emerging trends, hotspots, and systemic risks, translating insight into targeted interventions that strengthen organisational resilience and employee experience. They advise on and shape IR strategies aligned to business objectives, including organisational change, restructures, and transformation programmes, ensuring effective consultation and compliance with statutory obligations. Acting as a trusted partner, they coach and influence senior leaders on complex people matters, balancing commercial priorities with legal risk and employee impact. Through deep knowledge of internal processes and governance, they ensure consistent, fair, and legally compliant practices while driving continuous improvement in how the organisation manages complex employee and industrial relations challenges. Working closely with the supported business area/s to develop, drive and implement the HR Strategy/People Plan to include talent, succession planning and change management, in order to support the delivery of business objectives and drive a high performance culture. Act as an integral member of the business leadership team, building strong relationships with senior business leaders and other relevant stakeholders. Coach, advise and challenge thinking in addition to co-development, design and execution of integrated medium to long term people initiatives to meet current and future business needs. Act as a change agent; lead, support and contribute to change programmes, driving and championing the implementation of HR solutions within the supported business area, gaining acceptance from key stakeholders.
Essential Criteria
- Demonstrates strong business/commercial approach and understanding of business needs.
- Proven experience of working in partnership with senior business leaders in order to improve people management.
- Passionate about customer service with ability to articulate previous achievements through business deliverables.
- Knowledge and experience of implementing best practice HR solutions to drive a high performance culture.
- Ability to establish professional credibility quickly.
- Experience of coaching, influencing and building strong working relationships with senior business leaders.
Desirable Criteria
- MCIPD/post-graduate human resources qualification.
- Understanding of project management principles and experience of managing complex projects to successful conclusion.
- Experience of working within a unionised environment.
Benefits
- Flexible/hybrid working arrangements considered.
- Generous annual leave (28 days plus statutory days), with the option to buy/sell days.
- Discounts at stations with your Network Rail pass.
- Defined benefit pension scheme.
- 75% subsidy on train tickets.
- Interest-free travel loan for train and car park season tickets.
- Volunteer leave to make a positive impact.
Senior HR Employee Relations Business Partner in Newport employer: AMS Public Sector Resourcing (PSR)
At Network Rail, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment that values every employee's contribution to our mission of keeping the railway running smoothly. With flexible working arrangements, generous annual leave, and a commitment to professional development, we empower our team members to thrive while making a meaningful impact on communities across Cardiff, Swansea, and Newport. Join us to be part of a supportive culture that champions diversity and fosters growth, ensuring you can develop your career in a role that truly matters.
Contact Details:
AMS Public Sector Resourcing (PSR) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior HR Employee Relations Business Partner in Newport
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior HR Employee Relations Business Partner in Newport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at AMS Public Sector Resourcing (PSR). Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
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How to prepare for a job interview at AMS Public Sector Resourcing (PSR)
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with AMS Public Sector Resourcing (PSR).
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Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
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A full-time HR role at AMS Public Sector Resourcing (PSR) will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
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