Employee Relations Specialist Partner in Devon, Exeter

We are looking for an experienced and commercially minded Employee Relations Specialist Partner to lead and develop our employee relations function. This is an exciting opportunity for a highly skilled HR professional to influence organisational performance, build strong stakeholder relationships, and drive best practice across all aspects of employee relations.

Working as part of the People team, you will engage with colleagues at every level of the organisation, including senior executives, while collaborating with external partners and trade unions. You will oversee complex case management, coach leaders, and champion continuous improvement to ensure the delivery of a high-quality, proactive employee relations service.

The Role

• Lead the employee relations function, providing expert guidance and oversight across all casework.
• Supervise and support the management of complex employee relations matters, including those with potential Employment Tribunal implications.
• Drive continuous improvement in employee relations processes, policies, and practices through deep expertise in employment law and industry best practice.
• Coach and develop managers to build confidence and capability in handling people matters effectively.
• Foster collaborative relationships with internal stakeholders, senior leaders, external providers, and recognised trade unions.
• Manage key external partnerships, including Occupational Health and Employee Assistance Programme providers.
• Use people data, metrics, and reporting to identify trends, inform decision-making, and support organisational improvements.
• Lead and contribute to strategic people projects, embracing innovation and promoting new ways of working.
• Ensure compliance with data protection requirements and support organisational commitments to diversity, inclusion, and responsible information management.

About You

To succeed in this role, you will bring:

• Significant experience leading employee relations within a complex organisation.
• Extensive knowledge of UK employment law and practical application across a wide range of employee relations issues.
• Demonstrable experience managing complex casework, including disciplinary, grievance, capability, absence management, and Employment Tribunal preparation.
• Excellent coaching, influencing, and decision-making skills.
• Strong relationship-building abilities with senior stakeholders, trade unions, and external service providers.
• A proactive mindset with a passion for continuous improvement and service excellence.
• Experience using HR metrics and insight to inform strategic decisions and improve outcomes.
• The ability to manage multiple priorities and projects while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.

Professional Qualifications

You will ideally hold Chartered CIPD membership or be able to demonstrate equivalent professional experience within a senior employee relations or people practice role, with a genuine commitment to professional standards and continuous development.

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to make a significant impact on both people and organisational performance. You will join a collaborative People team where your expertise will help shape strategy, enhance employee experience, and foster a positive, high-performing workplace culture.

Please note that this role description is not exhaustive, and you may be required to undertake other duties appropriate to the level and responsibilities of the position.