At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead industrial relations activities and manage sensitive workforce issues with trade unions.
- Company: Local authority focused on strategic leadership in employee relations.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunity for impactful work, and professional development.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with opportunities to influence at senior levels.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in workforce relations and drive organisational change.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in industrial relations and strong understanding of UK employment law.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We are supporting a local authority in the appointment of an experienced Interim Industrial Relations Lead to provide strategic leadership and hands-on delivery across a complex employee relations landscape. This is a high-impact role requiring a confident and credible professional who can operate at pace, manage sensitive workforce issues, and lead engagement with trade unions at a senior level.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead on all industrial relations activity, acting as the senior point of contact for trade unions and workforce representatives
- Manage and resolve collective disputes, consultations, and negotiations
- Provide expert advice to senior leadership on employee relations strategy and risk
- Support and lead on organisational change programmes, including restructures and service transformation
- Develop and implement IR strategies to maintain stable workforce relations
- Ensure compliance with employment legislation and local government frameworks
- Coach and support HR colleagues and managers on complex ER/IR matters
About You
- Proven track record in a senior Industrial Relations / Employee Relations leadership role, ideally within the public sector or local government
- Extensive experience working with trade unions, including negotiations and dispute resolution
- Strong understanding of UK employment law and local authority governance
- Able to operate both strategically and operationally in a fast-paced environment
- Excellent stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence at senior level
- Resilient, pragmatic, and able to manage highly sensitive situations
Industrial Relations Lead in Birmingham employer: Hays
As a local authority, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values strategic leadership and hands-on delivery in the realm of industrial relations. Our supportive work culture fosters professional growth, offering opportunities to engage with trade unions and influence key workforce strategies while ensuring compliance with employment legislation. Join us in making a meaningful impact within the community, where your expertise will be recognised and valued.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Industrial Relations Lead in Birmingham
✨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!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at Hays!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at Hays.
We think you need these skills to ace Industrial Relations Lead in Birmingham
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 Hays. 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.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to Hays and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
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 Hays. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Hays'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 Hays
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with Hays.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at Hays 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.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact Hays and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
