At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead employee relations, manage complex cases, and drive people projects.
- Company: Join the iconic Dr. Martens brand with a rich heritage and cultural impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, generous discounts, private healthcare, and 25 days annual leave.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values individuality and authentic expression.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on a global brand while shaping its future.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of UK employment law and experience in case management.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Dr. Martens is more than a brand – it’s a global icon with over 60 years of attitude, heritage, and cultural impact. We’re a thriving, values‑driven business powered by diverse thinkers, bold doers, and people who bring their whole selves to work. If you’re ready to make your mark, you’re in the right place. At DM, our values guide everything we do: Be Yourself, Act Courageously, Show You Care. They’re not just words – they’re how we turn passion into progress.
As our ER Lead, you’ll be part of the People team working closely with brilliant people across the business. You’ll be right at the heart of fast‑moving projects that shape how we show up for our consumers – today and tomorrow.
This role plays a pivotal part in driving our consumer‑centric strategy. Everything you do will help elevate the DM experience – whether you’re enabling teams, improving processes, influencing decision making, or crafting moments that matter for our consumers around the globe. You’ll help us push boundaries, raise the bar, and keep the spirit of DM alive in everything we deliver.
CORE ACCOUNTABILITIES- Employee Relations & Leadership: Lead complex ER cases end‑to‑end (investigations, disciplinaries, grievances), provide expert, legally aligned advice, coach managers, and role‑model inclusive leadership and decision‑making.
- Projects, Policy & Capability Building: Deliver people projects (restructures, policy, ER strategy), develop manager self‑service tools and training, and drive continuous improvement of policies and workplace initiatives.
- Risk, Insight & Collaboration: Ensure legal compliance and risk management, analyse ER data for trends and insights, and partner cross‑functionally (People, Legal, TA, Payroll) to deliver a consistent, high‑quality employee experience.
- ER Expertise & Technical Capability: Strong UK employment law knowledge; skilled in complex case management, investigations, mediation, policy development, and data analysis to identify trends and risks.
- Leadership & Stakeholder Influence: Trusted advisor who confidently influences, challenges, and coaches leaders; builds strong cross‑functional relationships and leads/develops high‑performing teams.
- Ways of Working & Behaviour: Operates effectively in a global–local model with strong judgement and organisation; demonstrates authenticity, discretion, and emotional intelligence, driving fair and consistent employee experiences.
WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?
- Hybrid working
- Welcome free pair of Docs
- Share scheme
- 65% off all Docs
- 50% off Accessories
- Pension Scheme through Aviva
- Life Assurance
- 25 Days Annual Leave + Bank Holidays
- Private healthcare
- 2 paid volunteer days per year
If you’re excited to own your impact, shape the future of an iconic brand, and grow your career in a place that champions individuality – we’d love to hear from you. Application closing date: Wednesday 10th of June 2026.
At Dr. Martens, we are committed to creating an environment in which we can all be our best and bring our authentic selves to work. We encourage applications, regardless of race, colour, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, age, veteran status, or disability. Diverse and inclusive teams have a positive impact on our brand; helping us to speak authentically to our consumers. We strive to develop a business where our people can thrive and feel empowered to express themselves. Because we believe everyone should feel supported and included whatever their role in the Dr. Martens community.
ER Lead employer: Dr. Martens plc
At Dr. Martens, we pride ourselves on being a values-driven employer that champions individuality and fosters a vibrant work culture. As an ER Lead, you'll enjoy hybrid working, generous benefits including a share scheme and private healthcare, and the opportunity to grow within a globally recognised brand that values diverse perspectives and encourages personal expression. Join us in shaping the future of an iconic brand while making a meaningful impact in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land ER Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Dr. Martens on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into Dr. Martens' values and culture. Think about how your experiences align with 'Be Yourself, Act Courageously, Show You Care'. Bring those examples to life during your chat!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your ER expertise! Be ready to discuss complex cases you've handled and how you’ve influenced decision-making in previous roles. This is your chance to shine and demonstrate your skills.
✨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 genuinely interested in being part of the Dr. Martens family.
We think you need these skills to ace ER Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Authentic:When you're writing your application, let your true self shine through. We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your personality and passion for the role!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the ER Lead role. We love seeing how you can contribute to our values and culture.
Showcase Your Expertise:Don’t hold back on sharing your knowledge of UK employment law and your experience with complex case management. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so make it clear why you’re the right fit!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dr. Martens plc
✨Know Your ER Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your UK employment law knowledge and be ready to discuss complex case management. Familiarise yourself with common ER scenarios, as you'll likely be asked how you'd handle specific situations.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've influenced and coached leaders in the past. Dr. Martens values authentic leadership, so think about times when you've demonstrated emotional intelligence and built strong relationships across teams.
✨Be Consumer-Centric
Since this role is all about enhancing the DM experience, come prepared with ideas on how to elevate consumer interactions. Think about how your previous projects have positively impacted consumers and be ready to share those insights.
✨Embrace Their Values
Familiarise yourself with Dr. Martens' core values: Be Yourself, Act Courageously, Show You Care. During the interview, weave these values into your responses to show that you're not just a fit for the role, but also for the company culture.
