At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead negotiations with trade unions and resolve complex employee relations issues.
- Company: Tower Hamlets Council, committed to modernising employee relations.
- Benefits: £550 per day, hybrid working, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Join a high-profile role with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of employee relations in a dynamic local government environment.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in trade union negotiations and employee relations.
The predicted salary is between 39600 - 39600 £ per year.
Tower Hamlets Council is seeking an experienced interim ER Lead with deep specialist experience and knowledge in negotiations and consultation with trade union representatives in local government. This role holder will need to work at pace to address long standing disputes and failures to agree between parties by proposing professionally informed, evidence based and pragmatic solutions to reach satisfactory resolution to the Director of HR&OD.
Alongside this, the post holder will lead on a number of complex, high level ER cases ensuring that these reach timely resolution in line with the Councils policies and procedures. This role will also include developing Standard Operating and decision making approaches that achieve consistency and compliance across all ER activities to reduce case work escalation and ensure adherence to policies, procedures and the ACAS codes, working with colleagues in HR&OD to build competence and embed continuous improvement, playing a key role in strengthening and modernising employee and industrial relations across the Council.
This is a high profile role that requires a skilled trade union negotiator and employee relations professional who can operate confidently in a complex, unionised, fast paced environment working alongside services and with legal colleagues to ensure constructive relationships and partnership working, effective consultation that drives positive workforce outcomes and employee relations.
Key Responsibilities- Build and maintain effective, professional and collaborative trade union relationships.
- Create workflows, standard operating procedures and compliance / quality checks that ensure ER is managed effectively, consistently and in line with core policies and legislation.
- Lead and coordinate formal consultation and negotiation activity across the organisation.
- Support major organisational change, transformation and restructuring programmes.
- Work with senior leaders to develop effective employee and industrial relations strategies.
- Ensure compliance with collective consultation requirements and employment legislation.
- Manage the resolution of complex and high level ER issues, disputes and industrial relations matter at pace.
- Provide expert advice to managers and HR colleagues on consultation, negotiation and employee relations.
- Identify organisational risks and opportunities relating to workforce and union relations and be accountable for the plan to manage these.
- Promote early resolution approaches and proactive partnership working.
- Contribute to the development of employment policies, procedures and workforce initiatives.
- Monitor trends, issues and emerging risks across employee and industrial relations activity.
We are looking for an individual who can demonstrate:
- An experienced trade union negotiator who has significant experience of reaching solutions on matters of dispute.
- The ability to work at pace and with initiative to reduce disputes compliantly in a way that maintains positive relationships with trade unions.
- Significant experience working within employee relations, industrial relations or workforce relations in a public sector environment.
- Experience leading engagement with Trade Unions in a large and complex organisation.
- Proven experience supporting organisational change and consultation processes.
- Strong knowledge of employment law, collective consultation and industrial relations practice or trade union legislation.
- Experience advising senior leaders on complex workforce matters.
- Experience formal negotiation and consultation with Trade Unions with the ability to influence in challenging and politically sensitive environments.
- Strong understanding of employee relations risk management.
- Experience developing positive stakeholder relationships across multiple groups and interests.
- Excellent negotiation, communication and relationship-building skills.
- Strong influencing and negotiation capability.
- Ability to manage conflict constructively and professionally.
- Strong judgement and political awareness.
ER Lead (Trade Union Relations) – AR in London employer: Carrington Blake Recruitment
As a leading employer in Harrow, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee development and engagement. Our commitment to professional growth is evident through tailored training programmes and leadership opportunities, ensuring that every team member can thrive while contributing to the Council's strategic objectives. With a focus on diversity and community impact, we offer a unique chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of residents while enjoying a supportive and dynamic workplace.
Contact Details:
Carrington Blake Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land ER Lead (Trade Union Relations) – AR in London
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We think you need these skills to ace ER Lead (Trade Union Relations) – AR in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your People Skills:In HR, showcasing your interpersonal skills is key. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you have dealing with talent management, resolving conflicts, or facilitating workshops. We want to see your ability to connect with others!
Tailor Your CV to HR:Use HR-specific language in your CV and cover letter. Mention any specific HR tools, software, or methodologies you’re familiar with, like ATS systems or performance management frameworks. This will show that you’re not just a good fit, but you've got the know-how to back it up!
Emphasise Your Flexibility:Since this is a temporary role, emphasising your adaptability and willingness to learn quickly is crucial. Include examples of how you've successfully jumped into new environments before or handled sudden changes in previous jobs. We love a team player who can hit the ground running!
Availability Matters:In your application, make sure to clarify your availability and commitment to the temporary position. This will help us understand when you can start and how you fit into our plans at Carrington Blake Recruitment. So, don’t be shy about laying it all out there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Carrington Blake Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Adaptability
Given that this is a temporary HR role at Carrington Blake Recruitment, it's crucial to demonstrate your flexibility and ability to adapt quickly. You might be thrown into new projects or systems, so share examples of how you've successfully navigated changes in past roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with HR Tools
Many HR positions require familiarity with tools like HRIS or ATS systems. Before the interview, brush up on the specific software that Carrington Blake Recruitment uses—if you see any mentioned in the job posting, make sure you're ready to discuss them and your experience with similar tools.
✨Your Motivation Matters
As a temp, it's essential to convey your motivation for this role. Employers often look for candidates who are not just filling a position, but who are genuinely keen on contributing effectively in a short period. Consider sharing why you’re passionate about HR and how you see yourself adding value at Carrington Blake Recruitment.
✨Prepare for Real-World Scenarios
HR interviews often include situational questions that test your problem-solving skills. Think about common HR challenges, like dealing with conflict or managing onboarding efficiently, and prepare to discuss how you would handle these situations at Carrington Blake Recruitment.
