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- Tasks: Lead and shape industrial relations strategy while advising on negotiations and agreements.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at Hays, a leader in recruitment and HR solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy remote work, competitive salary, 25 days leave, and a 10% bonus.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in shaping positive workplace cultures and driving change.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in industrial relations with strong negotiation skills required.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a fast-paced, supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you a confident and experienced Industrial Relations (IR) professional ready to take on a pivotal standalone role? Hays is looking for someone who can shape and lead their clients\’ IR strategy, ensuring they remain proactive, progressive, and aligned with the evolving needs of their workforce.
About the RoleThis is a unique opportunity to provide expert guidance to HR and the wider business on all matters relating to industrial relations. You\’ll be the go to advisor on collective and local agreements, consultations, and negotiations playing a key role in shaping a positive and forward thinking industrial relations culture.
The role is remote based, but you will be required to travel across the UK to the local sites.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and lead the organisation\’s Industrial Relations strategy in line with HR and business goals.
- Act as the lead advisor on collective agreements, consultations, and local negotiations.
- Set the framework and standards for IR practices across HR Business Partners and operational leaders.
- Build capability across the business by upskilling managers in effective employee and industrial relations.
- Provide technical expertise and guidance on IR matters.
- Establish and maintain strong, constructive relationships with trade unions both formally and informally.
- Lead negotiations on pay, working conditions, collective agreements, and policy development.
- Partner with unions to support organisational change and continuous improvement.
- Ensure compliance with employment law and proactively monitor legislative changes.
- Lead dispute resolution strategies, including mediation and arbitration.
- Build and maintain a central SharePoint hub for IR policies, processes, and guidance.
- Confidently manage and operate effectively in complex, fast paced environments.
- Provide leadership in managing industrial action, including understanding ballot and voting processes.
- Providing knowledge of IR to the business partners.
What we are looking for
- Proven experience in a senior industrial relations role, ideally in a complex or unionised environment.
- Strong negotiation skills and a deep understanding of employment law and collective bargaining processes.
- Ability to build trust and credibility with both internal stakeholders and trade union representatives.
- Comfortable working with limited background information and navigating ambiguity.
- A proactive, solutions focused mindset with the confidence to influence at senior levels.
In return you will receive
- A competitive salary
- Remote working with travel across the UK (travel costs are covered)
- 25 days annual leave + bank holiday (purchase additional leave)
- 10% discretionary bonus
- Income Protection
- Pension
- Private Medical
- Retail discount
- Life Insurance
What you need to do now
If you\’re interested in this role, click \’apply now\’ to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn\’t quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C\’s, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk
Senior Industrial Relations Manager employer: Hays
Contact Detail:
Hays Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Industrial Relations Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industrial relations field and let them know you're on the lookout for new opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your negotiation skills. Think about real-life scenarios where you've successfully navigated complex discussions. This will help you showcase your expertise and confidence during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to research the company’s current industrial relations strategies. Being knowledgeable about their practices will not only impress them but also allow you to tailor your approach and show how you can add value.
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for talented individuals like you to join our team and make a difference in the world of industrial relations.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Industrial Relations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Industrial Relations Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in industrial relations, negotiation skills, and any specific achievements that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention your proactive mindset and how you can contribute to shaping a positive IR culture.
Showcase Your Negotiation Skills: Since negotiation is key in this role, be sure to include examples of successful negotiations you've led. This will demonstrate your capability and confidence in handling complex situations.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you on our radar quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays
✨Know Your IR Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of industrial relations, especially around collective agreements and negotiations. Being able to discuss recent changes in employment law or share examples of successful negotiations will show that you're not just experienced, but also current and proactive.
✨Build Relationships
Since the role involves working closely with trade unions and internal stakeholders, think about how you can demonstrate your relationship-building skills. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with unions or influenced senior leaders in the past.
✨Showcase Your Strategy Skills
Be ready to talk about how you would develop and lead an IR strategy. Think about specific goals you would set and how you would align them with HR and business objectives. This shows that you’re not just a doer, but a strategic thinker.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in complex situations, like managing industrial action or resolving disputes. Practise articulating your thought process and the steps you would take to navigate these challenges effectively.