At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage relationships between management, employees, and trade unions while ensuring compliance with employment laws.
- Company: Join EKFB, a leader in infrastructure shaping for a better tomorrow.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of transformative projects and make a real impact in the construction industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in industrial relations and knowledge of employment law required.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with a commitment to inclusivity and equality.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About The Role At EKFB (Eiffage, Kier, Ferrovial and BAM) we’re shaping Infrastructure for a better tomorrow. All four of our partners bring specialist expertise in the design, construction, operation, financing, and maintenance of railway networks, including the construction of one of Europe’s latest high speed rail projects. We’re looking for an Industrial Relations Manager to join our People team, based in Milton Keynes with regular travel to the other EKFB site offices between Wendover and Southam. This position will be required to maintain relationships between management, employees and trade unions whilst ensuring compliance with current employment and labour laws. The key responsibilities of this role include: Facilitating transparent and constructive dialogue to address workplace issues. Managing employee welfare and promoting fair and consistent treatment for all employees. Managing complex disciplines, grievance and capability issues, providing advice and developing action plans. Resolving conflicts swiftly and effectively. Investigating employee misconduct and policy violations. Developing and implementing industrial relations strategies, policies and procedures to ensure alignment and compliance. Providing coaching and training to managers on employee relations best practices, conflict resolution and legal compliance. Conducting investigations into employee misconduct and analysing workforce feedback to identify trends and improvements. Ensuring the organisations practices comply with current employment laws, regulations and collective agreements. Advising on employment and labour law updates to minimise legal risks and avoid disruptions. Maintaining accurate and detailed records of all cases and initiatives. Supporting the organisation through restructurings and other people-related changes. Handling disputes and appeals, working closely with HR and legal teams.About The Candidate Up to date knowledge of trade union constitution arrangements, employment law and general HR/IR practice and procedures. The post holder will be required to have IR Construction experience and demonstrable experience influencing senior stakeholders around industrial relations. Excellent knowledge of the construction industry. Experience in dealing with IR situations, operating across functional boundaries. Previous experience in generalist HR activity and be able to demonstrate up to date knowledge of employment law. Considerable experience of negotiations on pay, working conditions and working arrangements. Proven track record regarding negotiations/disputes and collective grievances at all levels. Experience of working with a transient workforce and the challenges that arise from this. Previous experience of handling large-scale change programs. Resolution of individual/collective disputes. Trade union recognition and/or experience of WRA’s (Working Rule Agreements). CIPD qualification is advantageous.About The Company EKFB is proud to have been appointed by HS2 to deliver civil engineering works across an 80km section of the new high-speed rail link between the Chiltern Tunnel and Long Itchington Wood. Our scope of the works includes 15 viaducts, 5km of green tunnels, 22km of road diversions, 67 overbridges and around 30 million cubic metres of excavation. EKFB is committed to improving lives, communities and the engineering and construction industry by providing sustained employment opportunities and being a good neighbour, protecting the environment and the places we work. If you would like to be part of our collaborative, enthusiastic and forward-thinking culture, then please apply today! In return, we are offering a competitive salary and benefits. EKFB brings together international, market leading technical expertise. We have an industry leading track record of delivering major infrastructure projects, including Crossrail, the Millau Viaduct, Mersey gateway and the Bretagne-Pays de la Loire High Speed Rail link. We are committed to, and strongly believe in, inclusiveness and equality of opportunity. Everyone who works with EKFB has a contribution to make; this is why we welcome applications from different backgrounds, experiences and abilities. Our aim is to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels they are able to be themselves. Please contact us if there is any additional support you might require making an application. Please note your CV may be shared with joint venture partners on this project. Pre-employment checks: It is worth remembering that EKFB will undertake the relevant / standard employment checks if you are successful in the selection process. This includes taking up your references, as well as checking your ID, driving licence (if appropriate) and your right to work in the UK. Some roles may also be subject to further pre-employment checks. NB. BPSS security clearance will be required (to be undertaken as part of the onboarding process). Applications will close on 28/09/2025 #LI-AA1
Industrial Relations Manager employer: EKFB
Contact Detail:
EKFB Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Industrial Relations Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy to reach out to folks on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching EKFB and understanding their projects. Familiarise yourself with their values and recent news. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or family. Focus on common questions related to industrial relations and your experience. The more comfortable you are speaking about your skills, the better you'll perform when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining EKFB and ready to contribute to shaping infrastructure for a better tomorrow.
We think you need these skills to ace Industrial Relations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Industrial Relations Manager role. Highlight your experience in managing employee relations, compliance with employment laws, and any relevant achievements in the construction industry.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for EKFB. Share specific examples of how you've successfully handled industrial relations situations and your approach to fostering positive workplace relationships.
Showcase Your Knowledge: Demonstrate your up-to-date knowledge of trade union arrangements and employment law in your application. This will show us that you’re not just qualified, but also passionate about staying informed in the field.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at EKFB
✨Know Your Employment Law
Brush up on current employment and labour laws relevant to the construction industry. Being well-versed in these areas will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to compliance, which is crucial for the role.
✨Prepare for Conflict Scenarios
Think of specific examples from your past experiences where you successfully resolved conflicts or managed grievances. Be ready to discuss your approach and the outcomes, as this will highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to handle complex situations.
✨Understand Trade Union Dynamics
Familiarise yourself with trade union structures and how they operate within the construction sector. Showing that you understand their role and can facilitate constructive dialogue will set you apart as a candidate who can effectively manage industrial relations.
✨Showcase Your Coaching Skills
Be prepared to discuss how you've coached or trained managers on employee relations best practices. This is key for the role, so share specific instances where your guidance led to improved workplace dynamics or compliance with legal standards.