At a Glance
- Tasks: Support HR strategies and build strong relationships across our diverse operational network.
- Company: Join Avanti West Coast, a company that values diversity and authenticity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Regular travel required; work from our Birmingham office one day a week.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced, customer-focused, and unionised setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR, strong employment law knowledge, and excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you an HR expert who loves balancing strategic thinking with hands on operational impact? We are seeking a confident and capable Strategic HR Business Partner to join our team and play a key role in supporting our people agenda across a diverse operational network. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced HR professional who is comfortable working in a fast-paced, customer-focused, and unionised environment.
About the Role
- Build strong, effective relationships with senior leaders, operational managers, colleagues, and trade union representatives.
- Provide clear, pragmatic advice on a full range of employment matters, highlighting risks and guiding managers towards sound, compliant decisions.
- Work closely with our HR Services team and subject matter experts to deliver a consistent, high quality HR service.
- Support the implementation and embedding of organisational and industry-wide changes, working collaboratively with trade unions.
- Maintain a strong presence across our stations, depots, and offices, ensuring HR remains visible, accessible, and aligned to the needs of the business.
- Contribute directly to the delivery of key business objectives through proactive workforce planning, engagement, and problem-solving.
This role requires regular travel across our network and a commitment to being in the workplace for the majority of the working week. One day per week you will be required to work from our Head office located in Birmingham.
About You
- Has experience in a customer-focused, operational, and ideally unionised environment.
- Is a well-rounded HR generalist with strong employment law knowledge.
- Can confidently challenge, influence, and coach senior managers.
- Is highly organised, resilient, and able to adapt to changing priorities.
- Builds trust quickly and acts as a reliable, professional advisor at all levels.
Qualifications
- Degree-level education or CIPD Level 7 qualification (preferred).
Be You. With Us. At Avanti West Coast, we believe our strength comes from the unique perspectives, experiences and backgrounds of our people. We are proud to build a workplace where diversity is embraced, and everyone is supported to thrive. We welcome individuals of all races, religions, ages, genders, gender identities, sexual orientations and abilities. Our goal is to reflect the communities we serve and create an environment where everyone feels valued and heard. When you join Avanti West Coast, you become part of a close-knit team that encourages authenticity. We want you to bring your whole self to work. No need to change who you are to fit in. Your individuality is what makes us better. We celebrate it, we respect it and we put it to great use.
Strategic HR Partner for Unionized Operations in London employer: Avanti West Coast
At Avanti West Coast, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values diversity and fosters a supportive work culture. As a Strategic HR Partner, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact within a dynamic, customer-focused environment while enjoying robust employee growth opportunities and a commitment to work-life balance. Our inclusive workplace encourages authenticity, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic HR Partner for Unionized Operations in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Avanti West Coast on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by understanding their people agenda. Dive into their recent projects or changes in HR policies, especially around union relations. This shows you're not just interested in the role but also in how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your adaptability! In a fast-paced environment, being able to pivot and handle changing priorities is key. Share examples from your past where you've successfully navigated challenges or implemented changes.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Avanti West Coast.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic HR Partner for Unionized Operations in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your experience in HR, especially in unionised environments, and showcase how you've made a tangible impact in previous roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're the perfect fit for the Strategic HR Partner role. Share specific examples of how you've built relationships and influenced decision-making in past positions.
Showcase Your HR Knowledge:We want to see your understanding of employment law and HR best practices. Mention any relevant qualifications or experiences that demonstrate your expertise and ability to navigate complex HR issues.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Avanti West Coast
✨Know Your HR Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your employment law knowledge and HR best practices. Be ready to discuss how you've navigated complex HR situations in the past, especially in unionised environments. This will show that you're not just a generalist but someone who can provide clear, pragmatic advice.
✨Build Relationships
Since this role involves working closely with senior leaders and trade union representatives, think about how you can demonstrate your relationship-building skills. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with different stakeholders to achieve HR objectives.
✨Show Your Strategic Side
Be prepared to discuss how you've contributed to workforce planning and engagement strategies in previous roles. Highlight any experience you have in implementing organisational changes and how you managed those transitions while keeping everyone on board.
✨Be Adaptable and Resilient
In a fast-paced environment, adaptability is key. Think of examples where you've had to pivot quickly due to changing priorities. Show that you can remain calm under pressure and still deliver high-quality HR services, even when things get hectic.
