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- Tasks: Lead a team to deliver expert Employee Relations support across diverse UK sectors.
- Company: HR Heads is a dynamic HR talent solutions provider based in Hampshire.
- Benefits: Enjoy a full-time role with opportunities for professional growth and minimal travel.
- Why this job: Shape workplace culture, drive wellbeing initiatives, and make a real impact on employee relations.
- Qualifications: Strong ER management experience, knowledge of UK employment law, and excellent leadership skills required.
- Other info: Position starts in July 2025; ideal for those passionate about proactive employee relations.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you a strategic HR leader with a passion for Employee Relations and a drive to shape a positive workplace culture? We’re looking for a Senior Manager – Employee Relations to lead a specialist team and deliver a high-impact ER service across a diverse UK workforce.
About the Role
This is a key leadership position responsible for delivering expert Employee Relations support to People Leaders across commercial, manufacturing, packaging, and distribution functions. You’ll lead a team of ER professionals, ensuring consistent, high-quality advice and support for around 3,000 employees.
- Lead and evolve the ER service model across the UK, ensuring it meets the needs of different business areas and stakeholder groups.
- Develop and maintain ER toolkits, processes, and guidance to empower line managers to handle people matters confidently and effectively.
- Coach and support your team to act as subject matter experts, ensuring their knowledge of employment law and best practice remains current.
- Act as the escalation point for complex or sensitive ER cases, including those involving senior leaders.
- Champion wellbeing initiatives, promoting a culture of safety, engagement, and positive mental health.
- Analyse ER data and trends to inform decision-making and identify areas for improvement or innovation.
- Collaborate with senior HR leaders to shape broader people strategies and contribute to the evolution of the HR service model.
- Chair governance forums to ensure ER practices are consistent, compliant, and aligned with organisational values.
- Drive continuous improvement by benchmarking against external best practice and incorporating feedback from across the business.
What We’re Looking For
- A strong track record of managing complex ER issues in a fast-paced, commercial environment.
- In-depth knowledge of UK employment law and case law.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing teams.
- A pragmatic, commercially aware approach to risk and resolution.
- Experience working in a matrix organisation and leading through change.
- A passion for proactive ER and enabling line managers to succeed.
Travel
Minimal UK travel required (approximately 5% annually).
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Human Resources
Industries
Manufacturing
Employee Relations Manager employer: HR Heads
Contact Detail:
HR Heads Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Employee Relations Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in Employee Relations, especially within the manufacturing and commercial sectors. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying current in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in HR and Employee Relations through platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging with industry leaders can provide insights into the role and may even lead to referrals, increasing your chances of landing an interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've managed complex ER issues in the past. Highlighting your experience with UK employment law and your ability to lead teams will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your passion for wellbeing initiatives and positive workplace culture during conversations with recruiters. This aligns with the company's values and demonstrates that you're not just focused on compliance but also on fostering a supportive environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Employee Relations Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in managing complex Employee Relations issues. Use specific examples that demonstrate your knowledge of UK employment law and your ability to lead high-performing teams.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for Employee Relations and how you can contribute to shaping a positive workplace culture. Mention your strategic approach and any relevant initiatives you've led in the past.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Emphasise your leadership experience in your application. Provide examples of how you've coached and developed teams, and how you've successfully managed stakeholder relationships in a fast-paced environment.
Highlight Continuous Improvement Initiatives: Discuss any previous experiences where you've driven continuous improvement in Employee Relations practices. Mention how you've used data analysis to inform decision-making and implement innovative solutions.
How to prepare for a job interview at HR Heads
✨Showcase Your ER Expertise
Make sure to highlight your experience with complex Employee Relations issues. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully managed such cases in the past, especially in fast-paced environments.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Senior Manager, you'll need to lead a team effectively. Be ready to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've developed high-performing teams in previous roles.
✨Know Your Employment Law
Brush up on UK employment law and recent case law. Being able to discuss relevant legal frameworks confidently will show that you're well-prepared and knowledgeable about the field.
✨Emphasise Wellbeing Initiatives
Since promoting wellbeing is a key part of the role, think about how you can contribute to a positive workplace culture. Share any initiatives you've led or been part of that focused on employee engagement and mental health.
