At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead employee relations, manage complex casework, and advise managers on best practices.
- Company: A forward-thinking further education provider in the East of England.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and enhance your career in a meaningful way.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by improving employee relations and supporting managers.
- Qualifications: Significant experience in employee relations and strong knowledge of UK employment law.
The predicted salary is between 37800 - 46200 £ per year.
Location: the East of England
Start date: 16 November 2026
About the Role
You'll lead the employee relations function for a further education provider, providing expert advice and hands‑on support to managers across the organisation. Working closely with senior leaders and HR colleagues, you'll manage complex casework from start to resolution, making sure matters are handled fairly, consistently and in line with employment law and organisational policy. You'll also take a proactive view, using casework insight to improve practice and strengthen manager capability.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Managing complex employee relations casework, including disciplinary, grievance, performance, absence and capability matters.
- Advising and coaching managers on employment law, policy and best practice.
- Supporting formal hearings and appeals, ensuring processes are fair, consistent and well documented.
- Working with trade union representatives and supporting consultation and negotiation.
- Reviewing and developing employee relations policies and procedures.
- Using casework data and trends to identify risks and improve practice across the organisation.
What We're Looking For
Essential:
- Significant employee relations experience, including complex casework
- Strong, up-to-date knowledge of UK employment law
- Experience advising and coaching managers at all levels
- Confident communication and influencing skills
- CIPD qualification or equivalent experience
Desirable (but not essential):
- Experience within further education or the wider public sector
- Experience of working with trade unions
If you're ready to bring your employee relations expertise to a role where your advice makes a real difference, we'd love to hear from you.
Employee Relations Manager (Temporary) in England employer: Dovetail & Slate
Dovetail and Slate is an exceptional employer for those passionate about shaping the future of skilled trades. With a strong commitment to employee development, we offer ongoing training, a supportive work culture, and generous benefits including a robust pension scheme and wellbeing initiatives. Join us in a collaborative environment where your expertise in Fabrication and Welding can truly make a difference in the lives of apprentices.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Employee Relations Manager (Temporary) in England
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Temp Agencies
Temporary roles in HR are often filled through agencies. Reach out to temp agencies that specialise in HR placements. They can help you find gigs quickly and give you a chance to demonstrate your skills in real-world scenarios.
✨Network at HR Events and Workshops
Dive into local HR events, workshops, and seminars. These are great opportunities to meet professionals already in the field and might lead to temporary positions. Be sure to have a chat, exchange contacts, and express your interest in on-the-spot opportunities!
✨Showcase Your Flexibility
In the temporary HR world, being adaptable is key. When you're networking or interviewing, highlight your ability to quickly learn and fill diverse roles, from recruitment to employee onboarding. Make it clear that you’re ready to dive in at any time!
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out the opportunities at Dovetail & Slate and apply directly via our website. This way, you can express your interest in temporary roles and get ahead in the application process!
We think you need these skills to ace Employee Relations Manager (Temporary) in England
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 Dovetail & Slate. So, don’t be shy about laying it all out there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dovetail & Slate
✨Showcase Your Adaptability
Given that this is a temporary HR role at Dovetail & Slate, 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 Dovetail & Slate 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 Dovetail & Slate.
✨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 Dovetail & Slate.
