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- Tasks: Lead trade union engagement and shape industrial relations strategies across the UK.
- Company: ISS UK & Ireland connects people and places, making the world work better.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model with opportunities for senior influence and career progression.
- Why this job: Drive meaningful change in union relations while working in a supportive and inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in trade union relations and knowledge of employment law required.
- Other info: Ideal for forward-thinking professionals ready to make an impact.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
HEAD OF UNION RELATIONSHIPS
West Midlands / South East | 37.5 hours Per Week (Hybrid) | Permanent
We’re looking for an experienced and strategic Head of Union Relationships to lead our trade union engagement and shape the future of industrial relations at ISS UK & Ireland.
This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of union strategy in a complex, high-profile environment.
What you’ll do:
- Develop and implement UK-wide and segment-specific industrial relations strategies
- Act as the primary contact for trade unions, leading on collective bargaining, pay and recognition agreements
- Manage industrial disputes through negotiation, mediation and risk mitigation
- Advise and upskill managers and P&C Business Partners to strengthen union relations capability
- Provide expert insights on labour relations trends, risks, and opportunities
- Support TUPE and bid processes with specialist advice
- Build strong, productive relationships with unions, clients and representative bodies
About You:
- Extensive experience in trade union/industrial relations within a complex, unionised environment (outsourcing advantageous)
- Proven success leading union strategy and pay negotiations at senior level
- Demonstrable knowledge of employment/labour law and collective agreements
- Skilled in conflict resolution and positive industrial relations management
- Excellent stakeholder management and influencing ability
- CIPD Level 5 or part-qualified Employment Law Solicitor preferred
- Comfortable with regular travel to ISS offices/client sites/to meet with unions
This role offers senior influence, visibility, and progression potential – ideal for a forward-thinking professional ready to drive meaningful change in how we engage with unions and representative bodies.
At ISS, we connect people and places to make the world work better. We’re proud to be a Disability Confident Committed (Level 2) employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
Contact:
Head of Union Relationships employer: ISS Facility Services UK
Contact Detail:
ISS Facility Services UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Union Relationships
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the trade union and industrial relations field. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meet-ups to connect with individuals who can provide insights or even refer you to opportunities at ISS.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on current trends and changes in employment law and collective agreements. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and the industry.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your past experiences in leading union strategy and negotiations. Highlighting measurable outcomes from your previous roles can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with ISS's values and their approach to union relationships. Tailoring your discussions around how your vision aligns with theirs can show that you're a great fit for the company culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Union Relationships
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your extensive experience in trade union and industrial relations. Focus on specific achievements in leading union strategy and pay negotiations, as well as your knowledge of employment law.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, emphasise your strategic approach to union relationships and provide examples of how you've successfully managed industrial disputes or improved stakeholder engagement in previous roles.
Showcase Relevant Skills: Clearly outline your skills in conflict resolution, negotiation, and stakeholder management. Use concrete examples to demonstrate how these skills have led to positive outcomes in your past positions.
Highlight Continuous Learning: Mention any relevant qualifications, such as CIPD Level 5 or your progress towards becoming an Employment Law Solicitor. This shows your commitment to professional development and staying updated on labour relations trends.
How to prepare for a job interview at ISS Facility Services UK
✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision
As a Head of Union Relationships, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to develop and implement effective industrial relations strategies. Prepare examples of past experiences where you successfully led union strategy or negotiations, highlighting the outcomes.
✨Know Your Labour Laws
Familiarise yourself with current employment and labour laws relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss how these laws impact union relationships and collective agreements, showcasing your expertise in navigating complex legal frameworks.
✨Demonstrate Conflict Resolution Skills
Prepare to discuss specific instances where you've managed industrial disputes through negotiation or mediation. Highlight your approach to conflict resolution and how it has led to positive outcomes for all parties involved.
✨Build Rapport with Stakeholders
Since stakeholder management is key in this role, think about how you can build strong relationships with unions, clients, and representative bodies. Be ready to share your strategies for influencing and engaging diverse stakeholders effectively.
