Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape the Employee Relations strategy for a transformative organisation.
- Company: A respected not-for-profit organisation with a purpose-driven mission.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hybrid work model, and potential for contract extension.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a key leadership role during an exciting transformation.
- Qualifications: Proven senior-level ER experience and strong union relationship management skills.
A leading not-for-profit organisation is undergoing an exciting period of transformation within its People Operations function. As part of this, they are establishing a dedicated Employee Relations (ER) team and are seeking an experienced Employee Relations Lead to help shape and deliver the next phase of their ER strategy. This is a key leadership role - ideal for someone who thrives on building structure, influencing at a senior level, and driving positive employee engagement across a complex organisation.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and shape the organisation's Employee Relations strategy, ensuring alignment with overall business objectives.
- Manage and strengthen relationships with staff representatives and unions, working in line with existing agreements.
- Oversee organisational change processes, including collective and individual consultations and restructures.
- Partner closely with the Chief People Officer on complex and high‑profile ER cases.
- Ensure all ER policies, procedures, and practices are fit for purpose and legally compliant.
- Work collaboratively with a capable ER Manager and wider People Operations team to deliver a consistent, fair, and engaging employee experience.
About You
- Proven senior-level Employee Relations experience, ideally within a large or complex organisation.
- Strong, hands‑on experience managing union relationships and collective consultations, this is essential.
- A track record of leading or advising on organisational change, restructures, and consultation processes.
- Excellent knowledge of UK employment law and best practice.
- Strong stakeholder management, influencing, and communication skills.
- A proactive, collaborative, and solutions‑focused approach.
Why Apply?
This is a fantastic opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of a respected, purpose-driven organisation. You'll have the autonomy to set direction, the support of a strong team, and the scope to make a real impact.
Interim ER lead employer: Oakleaf Partnership
Contact Detail:
Oakleaf Partnership Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim ER lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who might know someone at the organisation you're eyeing. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to insider info or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the company’s recent changes and challenges. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in their transformation journey.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed employee relations or led change in previous roles. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows your commitment to joining the team. Plus, we love seeing familiar faces!
We think you need these skills to ace Interim ER lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the key responsibilities and skills mentioned in the job description. Highlight your experience in Employee Relations, especially any work with unions or organisational change, to show us you’re the right fit for this role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about Employee Relations and how your background aligns with our needs. Be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the role.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this is a leadership role, make sure to emphasise your experience in managing teams and influencing at a senior level. Share examples of how you've driven positive employee engagement and shaped ER strategies in the past.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding your application status!
How to prepare for a job interview at Oakleaf Partnership
✨Know Your ER Strategy
Before the interview, make sure you understand the organisation's current Employee Relations strategy and how it aligns with their overall business objectives. Be ready to discuss how your experience can help shape and deliver their ER strategy effectively.
✨Showcase Your Union Management Skills
Since managing relationships with staff representatives and unions is crucial for this role, prepare specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully navigated union relationships or collective consultations. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and ability to handle complex situations.
✨Brush Up on Employment Law
Make sure you're up-to-date with UK employment law and best practices. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve applied this knowledge in previous roles, especially in relation to organisational change and restructures. This will show that you’re not just experienced but also knowledgeable about the legal landscape.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Management
Highlight your stakeholder management and influencing skills during the interview. Prepare to share examples of how you've effectively communicated and collaborated with senior leaders, particularly in high-profile ER cases. This will illustrate your ability to thrive in a leadership role and drive positive employee engagement.