Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead transformation projects and foster a positive work environment in a dynamic team.
- Company: Join the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, a diverse and inclusive employer.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, commitment to diversity, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on employee relations and organisational culture.
- Qualifications: Experience in employee relations, strong communication skills, and a degree or equivalent.
- Other info: Supportive environment with a focus on continuous learning and improvement.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Are you passionate about fostering a positive work environment and building strong employee relations in a fast-paced, highly unionised and complex environment? We are looking for a dedicated and experienced Senior Employee Relations Manager to join our dynamic Employee Relations team. In this role, you will lead on driving transformation projects, supporting a culture of respect and collaboration across the organisation, whilst ensuring fair outcomes and legal compliance in complex employee relations matters.
In addition to supporting managers across the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, you will also work alongside the Professional Standards Team in Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, providing guidance on highly sensitive case management issues and championing best practice across all areas of work.
About You:
You have a strong professional background in employee relations, with experience of supporting managers in handling employee relations and safeguarding issues, ensuring legal compliance throughout. You will have conducted thorough investigations and implemented effective resolutions within large organisations. Your deep understanding of employment law and regulations ensures that all practices align with legal standards and best practices. You will have developed and implemented forward-thinking, legally compliant policies that empower and engage employees whilst adhering to organisational aspirations.
As a leader, you’ve successfully guided teams and programmes, mentoring others and cultivating a high-performing, inclusive environment. Your communication skills are exceptional, allowing you to engage confidently and empathetically with employees at all levels. You approach challenges analytically, identifying root causes and crafting practical solutions. Discretion and confidentiality are second nature to you, especially when handling sensitive information.
You are deeply committed to diversity and inclusion, actively supporting initiatives that promote fairness and belonging. Your common-sense approach and practical application of policies and processes make you approachable and trusted by colleagues. Your use of workforce intelligence and employee feedback guides your approach to strategies and continuous improvement.
You will have:
- A degree or equivalent experience, ideally with membership in a relevant professional body (e.g., CIPD).
- Advanced knowledge of employee relations, change management, and employment law.
- Led and managed teams providing specialist advice on employee relations, performance management and large scale change.
- Strong relationship-building, influencing, and coaching skills at all levels, including senior leadership.
- Project management expertise and the ability to deliver results in a fast-paced, complex environment.
- A commitment to continuous learning, equality, diversity, and high standards of professionalism.
- Excellent communication, facilitation, and presentation skills, with the ability to translate complex information into clear, actionable advice.
- A flexible, resilient, and inclusive approach, with a passion for making a positive impact on organisational culture.
About us:
As an employer, the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) is made up of a number of key Greater Manchester strategic functions and service providers including; Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS); Waste and Resources; Environment; Work and Skills; Research; Public Sector Reform; Police, Crime and Criminal Justice; Homelessness; the Greater Manchester Ageing Hub and the Commissioning Hub.
We value the diversity of our employees, and aim to recruit a workforce which reflects our diverse communities across Greater Manchester. We encourage applications from all suitably qualified individuals, irrespective of people's age, disability, Trans status and Non-binary identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We have guidance in place to ensure that all applicants are treated fairly and consistently at every stage of the recruitment process, including the consideration of reasonable adjustments for people who have a disability.
Senior Employee Relations Manager in Manchester employer: Greater Manchester Combined Authority
Contact Detail:
Greater Manchester Combined Authority Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Employee Relations Manager in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on the lookout for a Senior Employee Relations Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the company and its culture, especially their approach to employee relations. Think about how your experience aligns with their values and be ready to share specific examples of how you've driven transformation and fostered collaboration in past roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! Bring along any relevant case studies or examples of successful projects you've led in employee relations. This will not only demonstrate your skills but also give you a chance to discuss your analytical approach to problem-solving.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our organisation. Let’s make that positive impact together!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Employee Relations Manager in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in employee relations. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your relevant skills and achievements!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since this role requires exceptional communication abilities, use your application to demonstrate how you engage with others. Whether it’s through clear writing or examples of past interactions, let us see your style shine through!
Highlight Your Leadership Experience: As a Senior Employee Relations Manager, leadership is key. Share specific examples of how you've guided teams or managed projects in the past. We’re keen to know how you’ve fostered collaboration and driven positive change!
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 the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Greater Manchester Combined Authority
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of employment law and employee relations. Familiarise yourself with the latest regulations and best practices, as well as any recent changes in legislation that could impact the role. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to staying informed.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully handled complex employee relations issues or led transformation projects. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, making it easy for the interviewers to see your impact and approach.
✨Emphasise Communication Skills
As a Senior Employee Relations Manager, your ability to communicate effectively is crucial. Be ready to discuss how you've engaged with employees at all levels, especially in sensitive situations. Highlight your empathetic approach and how it has helped foster a positive work environment.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Style
Think about your leadership experiences and be prepared to share how you've mentored teams and cultivated an inclusive culture. Discuss your project management skills and how you've delivered results in fast-paced environments, showcasing your ability to lead by example and inspire others.
