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 40000 - 50000 £ 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.
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
- 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)
- 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)
Senior Employee Relations Advisor 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
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees in similar roles on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to employee relations. We recommend role-playing with a friend to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise during interviews by sharing specific examples of how you've handled complex employee matters. This will demonstrate your capability and fit for the role.
✨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 genuine interest in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Employee Relations Advisor
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 any relevant qualifications, like your CIPD Level 5. 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 navigated sensitive employee matters and influenced outcomes in previous roles. We love a good story that showcases your skills!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As a Senior Employee Relations Advisor, strong communication is key. In your application, demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively at all levels. Whether it's through your CV, cover letter, or any additional documents, let us see your skills in action!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll get to see all the other amazing opportunities we have 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.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked about specific cases you've managed, such as disciplinary or grievance issues. Think of a few key examples that highlight your problem-solving skills and your approach to maintaining fairness and compliance in your decisions.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Research the organisation's values and culture before the interview. Be ready to discuss how your approach to employee relations aligns with their goals, especially in terms of reducing risk and enhancing management capability across a large workforce.