At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex employee relations cases and support the team with coaching and guidance.
- Company: Join a supportive Employee Relations team at a leading firm in Bristol.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hybrid working, competitive salary, generous holiday, and private medical insurance.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth in a dynamic and inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on workplace culture and governance while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Strong expertise in employee relations and experience managing complex cases.
The predicted salary is between 56700 - 69300 £ per year.
We are looking for an enthusiastic Employee Relations Specialist Lead to join our growing ER & Policy Team in Bristol.
About the team: You’ll join a supportive and experienced Employee Relations team, working on a wide range of matters that have real impact across the firm. The role is based in Bristol, with a hybrid working approach that combines home and office‑based working. Occasional travel between CMS offices may be required in line with business needs.
What you’ll do:
- Lead complex, sensitive and high‑risk employee relations cases for employees and partners, managing investigations and outcomes end to end in a way that is fair, consistent and aligned with firm policies and employment law requirements.
- Act as a senior escalation point within the ER team, providing cover for the Senior Manager, Employee Relations on critical cases and supporting ER specialists through coaching, guidance and quality oversight.
- Contribute to ER and policy‑related projects and initiatives that strengthen the firm’s culture, governance and people practices.
- Advise and influence HR colleagues, managers and senior stakeholders on ER matters, with a strong focus on risk management, confidentiality and compliance, and a willingness to seek specialist advice where appropriate.
- Provide ER expertise on redundancy and restructuring programmes, working closely with HR colleagues on approach, timelines, communications and risk.
- Use ER data, insights and case management systems to identify themes, emerging risks and opportunities for improvement, supporting continuous improvement and robust governance across ER activity.
What you’ll bring:
- Strong technical expertise in employee relations and employment policy, demonstrated through relevant professional experience.
- Experience of managing complex ER cases and advising a wide range of stakeholders with professionalism and credibility.
- The ability to communicate complex or sensitive information clearly and appropriately, both verbally and in writing.
- Experience of coaching and supporting managers and HR colleagues on ER matters, including constructively challenging decisions where required.
- Analytical capability, with experience using ER data and insights to inform decisions, identify trends and support business outcomes.
- Experience of contributing to people‑related projects, change initiatives or policy development within a complex organisational environment.
What’s in it for you? We want to reward you today and help you plan for tomorrow. We appreciate that everyone is different, therefore we have designed a benefits system that offers choice and flexibility based on individual needs and lifestyles. To name a few, these include:
- Competitive basic salary (reviewed annually)
- Flexible, hybrid working policy
- Generous bonus scheme
- Up to 25 days holiday (rising to 28 days with service)
- Holiday exchange scheme
- Private medical insurance
- Enhanced parental leave
- Reasonable adjustments and accommodation for disabled talent in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.
If you would like to read more information regarding our range of benefits, please visit our Rewards & Benefits page on our website.
Please note that we have a preferred agency panel in place. Only applications submitted via the portal at the point of instruction will be accepted.
Lead Employee Relations Specialist in Bristol employer: CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang
CMS is an excellent employer that values its employees by offering a competitive salary, flexible hybrid working options, and a generous bonus scheme. With a strong focus on employee growth, CMS provides opportunities for professional development within a supportive work culture, making it an ideal place for those looking to advance their careers in the legal field, particularly in the vibrant cities of Sheffield and Manchester.
Contact Details:
CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Employee Relations Specialist in Bristol
✨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 Lead Employee Relations Specialist in Bristol
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 CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang. 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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Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
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A full-time HR role at CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang 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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