At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex employee relations cases and provide expert guidance to managers.
- Company: Join a dynamic HR team supporting over 5,500 colleagues.
- Benefits: Enjoy 22 days annual leave, healthcare support, and retail discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment while developing your HR skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in employee relations and strong understanding of UK employment law.
- Other info: Hybrid working options available after onboarding for better work-life balance.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Location: Runcorn, UK
Salary: Dependent on Experience
Working Hours: Monday–Friday, 09:00–17:15
Contract: 3 Month Fixed Term Contract (Possible Extension)
We are seeking a confident and experienced Employee Relations Specialist to join our HR team, supporting a workforce of over 5,500 colleagues. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys navigating complex employee matters, working at pace, and influencing fair, pragmatic outcomes across a large and varied organisation.
The role
As a key member of the HR function, you will take ownership of complex employee relations activity, providing clear, balanced advice that aligns with both legal requirements and business priorities. You will play an integral role in maintaining consistency, reducing risk, and strengthening management capability across the organisation.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead on complex and sensitive employee relations cases, offering expert guidance to managers and stakeholders
- Oversee a busy caseload covering disciplinary, grievance, performance, and absence matters
- Support dispute resolution processes including early conciliation and mediation, and assist with tribunal preparation
- Develop line manager capability through coaching, advice, and practical support
- Partner with senior HR colleagues and business leaders to shape and improve ER approaches
- Review and enhance policies and processes to ensure they remain effective and compliant
- Provide on-site support and deliver training across UK locations where required
About You
- Strong background in employee relations within a fast-paced, high-volume environment (retail or distribution experience advantageous)
- Solid understanding of UK employment legislation and its practical application
- CIPD Level 5 (or equivalent experience)
- Demonstrated experience handling conciliation processes and preparing for employment tribunals
- Skilled communicator with the ability to influence and build credibility at all levels
- Professional, discreet, and confident managing sensitive situations
- Comfortable using HR systems and Microsoft Office (experience with iTrent beneficial)
What’s in it for you
- 22 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), increasing with service
- Medicash plan to help with everyday healthcare costs
- Financial wellbeing support via flexible pay access tools
- Retail discounts and employee offers
- Employee Assistance Programme for additional support
- Contributory pension scheme
- Hybrid working options following onboarding (typically 4 days on-site, 1 day remote)
Locations
Senior Employee Relations Advisor in Cheshire, Runcorn employer: PHOENIX group - Integrated Healthcare Provider
Contact Detail:
PHOENIX group - Integrated Healthcare Provider Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Employee Relations Advisor in Cheshire, Runcorn
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the HR field, especially those who have experience in employee relations. They might know about opportunities that aren't advertised yet or can give you insider tips on the application process.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of UK employment legislation and real-life scenarios you've handled. We want you to showcase your expertise in navigating complex employee matters, so think of examples that highlight your skills!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to research the company culture and values! Understanding how they approach employee relations will help you tailor your responses during interviews and show that you're a great fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing the job! It shows your commitment and gives us a direct line to your application, making it easier for us to see your potential as a Senior Employee Relations Advisor.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Employee Relations Advisor in Cheshire, Runcorn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Senior Employee Relations Advisor. Highlight your experience in handling complex employee relations cases and your understanding of UK employment legislation. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for our HR team. Share specific examples of how you've influenced fair outcomes in previous roles, and don't forget to mention your CIPD Level 5 or equivalent experience.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As a Senior Employee Relations Advisor, strong communication skills are key. In your application, demonstrate how you've effectively communicated with managers and stakeholders in the past. We love seeing candidates who can influence and build credibility 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 your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at PHOENIX group - Integrated Healthcare Provider
✨Know Your Employee Relations Stuff
Make sure you brush up on UK employment legislation and its practical application. Be ready to discuss how you've navigated complex employee matters in the past, as this will show your expertise and confidence in handling sensitive situations.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Senior Employee Relations Advisor, you'll need to influence and build credibility. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated with managers and stakeholders, especially in challenging scenarios. This will demonstrate your ability to handle disputes and coach others.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that put you in hypothetical situations related to disciplinary, grievance, or performance issues. Think through your approach to resolving these cases and be prepared to explain your reasoning clearly and concisely.
✨Highlight Your Coaching Experience
Since part of the role involves developing line manager capability, come equipped with examples of how you've coached or supported managers in the past. Discuss any training you've delivered and the positive outcomes that resulted from your guidance.