At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead Employee Relations, providing expert advice and promoting a positive workplace culture.
- Company: Newport City Council, committed to fairness and inclusion.
- Benefits: Opportunities for career development and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Join a diverse team and help shape a fair workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in employee relations and workplace culture.
- Qualifications: Experienced HR professional with strong employment law knowledge.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
We're looking for a highly experienced Employee Relations professional to lead our Employee Relations function and help shape a positive workplace culture across Newport City Council. You'll provide expert advice on complex workforce matters, support managers to make confident decisions and play a key role in promoting fair and consistent people practices across the organisation.
Employee relations is about helping people navigate some of the most challenging moments in working life while ensuring fair, balanced and constructive outcomes. Working closely with senior leaders, managers, trade unions and HR colleagues, you'll help ensure workplace issues are managed effectively, risks are addressed proactively and positive employee relations remain at the heart of good people management.
This opportunity has arisen following the promotion of the current postholder, reflecting the development opportunities available within our HR & OD Service.
In this role, you will:
- Provide expert advice on complex employee relations matters, including disciplinary, grievance, capability, absence and organisational change cases.
- Lead, coach and support HR colleagues to deliver a consistent, high-quality Employee Relations service.
- Work collaboratively with managers and trade unions to promote early resolution, effective consultation and constructive outcomes.
- Use employment law, policy, data and insight to manage risk, improve practice and support organisational priorities.
- Contribute to the Council's People Plan and promote a culture based on fairness, inclusion and collaboration.
About you
You'll be an experienced HR professional with strong employment law knowledge and a proven track record of managing complex and sensitive workforce issues. You’ll have the credibility to advise managers, senior leaders and trade union representatives, balancing organisational risk with practical and people-focused solutions. You’ll be motivated by resolving complex workplace issues, supporting managers through challenging situations and delivering fair, timely and constructive outcomes for employees and services alike. You’ll bring a calm, balanced and pragmatic approach that builds trust and confidence, even in the most sensitive circumstances.
If you're passionate about Employee Relations and want to lead an important function within a large and diverse organisation, we'd love to hear from you.
Shortlisting: 24/09/2026
Interviews: Week commencing 05/10/2026
We welcome applications for all our jobs in either Welsh or English. An application submitted in Welsh will not be treated less favourably than an application submitted in English.
Newport City Council is committed to working towards its workforce being more representative of the population that we serve and particularly welcomes applications from people from minority ethnic communities represented, or living, in the city. Selection will be made on ability and skills to undertake the role.
Newport City Council is not currently supporting applicants with sponsorship for right to work. In applying for a vacancy, applicants should already have the right to work in the UK.
Our values: Fairness for all, Making a difference, Being responsible, Working together.
Employee Relations Lead in Newport employer: NEWPORT CITY COUNCIL
Newport City Council is an exceptional employer, dedicated to empowering communities and fostering a collaborative work environment. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we offer opportunities for progression, competitive salaries, generous holiday allowances, and an excellent pension scheme. Join us in making a meaningful impact in Newport, where your passion for community engagement can thrive in a supportive and diverse setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Employee Relations Lead in Newport
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at NEWPORT CITY COUNCIL!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at NEWPORT CITY COUNCIL.
We think you need these skills to ace Employee Relations Lead in Newport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at NEWPORT CITY COUNCIL. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to NEWPORT CITY COUNCIL and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at NEWPORT CITY COUNCIL. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to NEWPORT CITY COUNCIL's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at NEWPORT CITY COUNCIL
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with NEWPORT CITY COUNCIL.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at NEWPORT CITY COUNCIL will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact NEWPORT CITY COUNCIL and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
