At a Glance
- Tasks: Support managers with complex employee relations cases and provide expert guidance.
- Company: Join National Gas, a key player in Britain's energy security.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, double-match pension, annual bonus, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Flexible working options available, including part-time and job share.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on employee relations while shaping a clean energy future.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing complex ER cases and strong knowledge of UK employment law.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 60000 £ per year.
Can consider part-time (4 days per week) and job share
At National Gas, the work we do matters.
As Britain's national gas network, we help keep the lights on, businesses running, and homes warm by maintaining the critical infrastructure that transports gas across Great Britain.
While providing the energy security Britain relies on today, we're also helping transform the network for a clean energy future.
Join us and help secure Britain's energy.
About the role
The Employee Relations (ER) Complex Cases Specialist is part of a team of ER specialists, reporting to the ER and Complex Cases Manager - a key part of our wider HR team - providing high-quality, customer-focused Employee Relations support for complex employment cases, particularly those at the later stages of formal HR processes.
You will provide professional, risk-based advice, guidance, coaching and training to line managers on matters including sickness absence, disciplinary issues, grievances, performance improvement, discrimination, bullying and harassment, drugs and alcohol, and other employee relations matters .
In response to changes in employment legislation, the role will also focus on improving HR policies and processes, developing practical guidance, and designing and developing training to upskill managers so they can manage employee relations matters fairly, consistently and in line with legal requirements.
Key accountabilities
- Provide a visible, timely and professional ER service, supporting managers with complex case management.
- Support the application of ER policies, with a particular focus on complex cases. Coach managers, lead policy improvements and provide expert guidance to HR colleagues.
- Attend disciplinary appeal hearings and final-stage complex sickness absence hearings, supporting managers with best-practice advice.
- Support and coach managers in handling complex sickness absence cases and performance improvement cases in the build up to a Performance Improvement Plan Stage 3 hearing.
- Advise on discrimination, bullying and harassment matters, grievance investigations and other complex employee relations cases.
Coach managers, investigators and HR colleagues on the appropriate approach and, where risk requires, attend earlier-stage meetings.
- Review cases that may result in dismissal, assess key risks and provide coaching and feedback to HR colleagues to support fair and consistent decision-making.
- Review disciplinary allegations prepared by HR colleagues before disciplinary hearings take place, ensuring they are clear, appropriate and aligned to the relevant process.
- Design, develop and deliver related learning, development and upskilling programmes for managers, supporting understanding of policy requirements, emerging legislative changes and ER best practice.
- Facilitate confidential employment discussions, liaise with ACAS if required.
- Contribute to management and HR meetings by sharing employee relations trends, risks and insights.
- Support collective bargaining activity as and where required including trade union forums, policy working groups and pay talks.
- Build and maintain positive working relationships with recognised trade unions and employee representatives.
About you
- Proven experience as an Employee Relations specialist, with the ability to manage complex cases and provide practical, legally informed and commercially aware advice.
- Strong understanding of UK employment law, good practice and external guidance, including ACAS requirements for relevant HR policies and processes.
- Experience of supporting and managing complex hearings and case work, including cases that may result in dismissal.
- Experience of advising and coaching line managers on sickness absence, performance improvement, grievances, discrimination, bullying and harassment matters, including investigations cases, and those that may result in dismissal or ill-health retirement.
- Ability to work under pressure and deliver high-quality work in a timely manner, multi-task and prioritise to offer a consistently high level of delivery.
- Ability to confidently challenge current ways of working and influence and encourage change.
- Experience of contentious matters in both an internal and external context including early conciliation, settlement agreements and employment tribunals.
- Delivery & Customer focused, resilient and tenacious, and a team player, with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
What we can offer you
- Salary £55,000 - £60,000 (dependant on experience)
- Market-leading double-match pension (for every £1 you add, we add £2)
- Annual performance bonus
- 10x salary life assurance and income protection
- Family-friendly policies, wellbeing support, and professional development opportunities
Inclusive recruitment
We're building a workforce that reflects the communities we serve, championing diversity, and creating an inclusive workplace where everyone is valued for their unique contribution.
We support reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and beyond.
National Gas is a Disability Confident employer and signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant.
Further information
- This is a 12 month Fixed Term Contract opportunity
- Advert close: 29th September 2026
- Interviews: w/c 5th October 2026 onwards
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Employee Relations (ER) Complex Cases Specialist in Warwick employer: National Gas
At National Gas, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package that includes a market-leading pension scheme and generous holiday allowance. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our professional development opportunities and inclusive work culture, where diversity is championed and every team member's contribution is valued. Located in St Fergus, you will play a vital role in ensuring the safety and compliance of Britain's energy infrastructure while enjoying a supportive environment that prioritises wellbeing and work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Employee Relations (ER) Complex Cases Specialist in Warwick
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Temp Agencies
Temporary roles in HR are often filled through agencies. Reach out to temp agencies that specialise in HR placements. They can help you find gigs quickly and give you a chance to demonstrate your skills in real-world scenarios.
✨Network at HR Events and Workshops
Dive into local HR events, workshops, and seminars. These are great opportunities to meet professionals already in the field and might lead to temporary positions. Be sure to have a chat, exchange contacts, and express your interest in on-the-spot opportunities!
✨Showcase Your Flexibility
In the temporary HR world, being adaptable is key. When you're networking or interviewing, highlight your ability to quickly learn and fill diverse roles, from recruitment to employee onboarding. Make it clear that you’re ready to dive in at any time!
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out the opportunities at National Gas and apply directly via our website. This way, you can express your interest in temporary roles and get ahead in the application process!
We think you need these skills to ace Employee Relations (ER) Complex Cases Specialist in Warwick
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your People Skills:In HR, showcasing your interpersonal skills is key. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you have dealing with talent management, resolving conflicts, or facilitating workshops. We want to see your ability to connect with others!
Tailor Your CV to HR:Use HR-specific language in your CV and cover letter. Mention any specific HR tools, software, or methodologies you’re familiar with, like ATS systems or performance management frameworks. This will show that you’re not just a good fit, but you've got the know-how to back it up!
Emphasise Your Flexibility:Since this is a temporary role, emphasising your adaptability and willingness to learn quickly is crucial. Include examples of how you've successfully jumped into new environments before or handled sudden changes in previous jobs. We love a team player who can hit the ground running!
Availability Matters:In your application, make sure to clarify your availability and commitment to the temporary position. This will help us understand when you can start and how you fit into our plans at National Gas. So, don’t be shy about laying it all out there!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Gas
✨Showcase Your Adaptability
Given that this is a temporary HR role at National Gas, it's crucial to demonstrate your flexibility and ability to adapt quickly. You might be thrown into new projects or systems, so share examples of how you've successfully navigated changes in past roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with HR Tools
Many HR positions require familiarity with tools like HRIS or ATS systems. Before the interview, brush up on the specific software that National Gas uses—if you see any mentioned in the job posting, make sure you're ready to discuss them and your experience with similar tools.
✨Your Motivation Matters
As a temp, it's essential to convey your motivation for this role. Employers often look for candidates who are not just filling a position, but who are genuinely keen on contributing effectively in a short period. Consider sharing why you’re passionate about HR and how you see yourself adding value at National Gas.
✨Prepare for Real-World Scenarios
HR interviews often include situational questions that test your problem-solving skills. Think about common HR challenges, like dealing with conflict or managing onboarding efficiently, and prepare to discuss how you would handle these situations at National Gas.
