At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Industrial Relations strategy and build partnerships with Trade Unions.
- Company: Dynamic organisation in London with a focus on employee relations.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £120,000 plus comprehensive benefits package.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in a high-stakes role within a complex environment.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in Industrial Relations and strong HR policy background.
The predicted salary is between 120000 - 120000 £ per year.
Location: London (Hybrid – 2 days per week onsite)
Type: Permanent
Salary: Up to £120,000 + comprehensive benefits package
We are excited to be engaged exclusively on the search for a highly experienced Industrial Relations and Policy specialist to take ownership of all aspects of collective engagement, workforce policy and employee relations strategy for one of our highly regulated clients based in London. This is a high-impact individual contributor role, ideal for a senior specialist who thrives in navigating complex organisational dynamics, regulatory requirements and trade union relationships. You will be instrumental in developing and embedding a forward-thinking IR strategy across a complex, multi-site environment.
Key responsibilities will include:
- Act as the strategic lead for Industrial Relations, building and maintaining effective partnerships with Trade Unions and employee representatives
- Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, bridging the gap between executive decision-making and HR delivery
- Lead collective consultations on pay, terms and conditions, and organisational change
- Provide expert guidance on collectively bargained agreements, operational practices, and workforce strategy
- Review and modernise workplace policies to ensure they are legally compliant, consistent, and aligned to organisational goals
- Manage complex dispute resolution
The successful candidate will have:
- A proven track record in a dedicated Industrial Relations or senior HR Policy role
- Strong experience within multi-union environments, including leading collective bargaining processes
- CIPD qualification (or equivalent experience in HR, IR, or Employment Law)
- Demonstrable experience implementing complex people policies across large, multi-site organisations
- Exceptional communication and influencing skills, with confidence engaging at Executive level
- Comfortable operating as a standalone subject matter expert, balancing strategic oversight with operational delivery
Head of Industrial Relations (Strategic SME) employer: LHH
As a leading employer in the heart of London, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. Our comprehensive benefits package, coupled with hybrid working arrangements, ensures that our team members enjoy a healthy work-life balance while having access to continuous development opportunities. Join us to make a meaningful impact in a high-stakes environment where your expertise in Industrial Relations will be valued and recognised.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Industrial Relations (Strategic SME)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how personal connections can open doors that applications alone can’t.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s culture and recent developments in their industrial relations. We recommend practising common interview questions and tailoring your responses to highlight your experience in navigating complex organisational dynamics.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! Bring along examples of your past work, especially those that demonstrate your ability to manage trade union relationships and lead collective consultations. We love seeing candidates who can back up their claims with real-life success stories.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A simple thank-you email reiterating your interest in the role and summarising how you can contribute can leave a lasting impression. We believe this small gesture can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Industrial Relations (Strategic SME)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your experience in Industrial Relations and any relevant achievements that showcase your ability to navigate complex organisational dynamics.
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 specific experiences that align with the responsibilities listed, like leading collective consultations or managing dispute resolutions.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role requires exceptional communication skills, make sure your application reflects that. Use clear, concise language and structure your documents well to demonstrate your ability to engage effectively at all levels.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding your application status!
How to prepare for a job interview at LHH
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of industrial relations and workforce policy. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and regulations in the field, especially those relevant to multi-union environments. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're the right fit for the role.
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Think of specific instances where you've successfully navigated complex organisational dynamics or led collective bargaining processes. Be ready to share these examples during the interview to illustrate your experience and problem-solving skills. This will help the interviewers see how you can add value to their organisation.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Don't just wait for questions to be thrown at you; engage with the interviewers. Ask insightful questions about their current challenges in industrial relations and how they envision the role contributing to their strategy. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if the company aligns with your values.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Head of Industrial Relations, exceptional communication is key. During the interview, focus on articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Use this opportunity to demonstrate how you can bridge the gap between executive decision-making and HR delivery, which is crucial for this role.
