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 strategic influence and 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) in London employer: LHH
As a leading employer in the heart of London, we offer an exceptional work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. Our hybrid working model promotes a healthy work-life balance, while our comprehensive benefits package ensures that our employees feel valued and supported. With a strong focus on professional development, we provide ample opportunities for growth and advancement, making us an ideal choice for those seeking a meaningful career in Industrial Relations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Industrial Relations (Strategic SME) in London
✨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 important it is to build relationships that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their approach to industrial relations and think about how you can contribute to their strategy. We recommend practising common interview questions and having your own questions ready to show your interest.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio or a presentation that highlights your past achievements in industrial relations and policy. This will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your value to potential employers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We have exclusive listings and resources that can help you land that dream job. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Industrial Relations (Strategic SME) in London
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 examples of how you've successfully managed trade union relationships or led collective consultations in the past.
Showcase Your Expertise:Don’t shy away from detailing your qualifications and experiences, especially your CIPD certification or equivalent. We want to see how your background aligns with the strategic lead responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
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, regulations, and best practices in the field. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your experience in managing complex organisational dynamics and trade union relationships. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, making it easier for the interviewers to see your impact.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Don’t just wait for questions; engage with the interviewers by asking insightful questions about their current challenges in industrial relations. This demonstrates your strategic thinking and shows that you’re already considering how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world situations. Think about potential disputes or collective bargaining scenarios you might face and how you would approach them. This will showcase your ability to navigate complex issues effectively.
