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: Competitive salary, generous leave, healthcare support, and hybrid working options.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth and training across various UK locations.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment while developing your HR skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in employee relations and understanding of UK employment law required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 54000 £ per year.
We are seeking a confident and commercially aware People Relations Lead 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
- Competitive salary up to £45,000
- 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)
Employee Relations Specialist in Runcorn employer: PHOENIX Medical Supplies
Join our dynamic HR team in Runcorn as a People Relations Lead, where you will thrive in a supportive and inclusive work culture that values your expertise in employee relations. With competitive salaries, generous annual leave, and opportunities for professional development, we empower our employees to grow while ensuring a balanced work-life through hybrid working options. Be part of an organisation that prioritises employee wellbeing and offers unique benefits like financial support and retail discounts, making it an excellent place to build a rewarding career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Employee Relations Specialist in Runcorn
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees in the company you're eyeing, especially those in HR or employee relations. They can give you insider info and maybe even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of UK employment legislation. Be ready to discuss how you've navigated complex employee matters in the past – real-life examples will make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your communication skills during the interview. Practice explaining how you would handle sensitive situations or disputes clearly and confidently. Remember, influencing and building credibility is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Employee Relations Specialist in Runcorn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Employee Relations Specialist role. Highlight your experience in handling complex employee matters and any relevant qualifications, like your CIPD Level 5. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the role and how your skills can help us navigate employee relations effectively. Keep it concise but impactful!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a People Relations Lead, strong communication is key. In your application, demonstrate your ability to influence and build credibility. Share examples of how you've successfully managed sensitive situations in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at PHOENIX Medical Supplies
✨Know Your Employment Law
Brush up on UK employment legislation before your interview. Being able to discuss relevant laws and how they apply to employee relations will show that you’re not just knowledgeable but also ready to tackle complex issues head-on.
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Think of specific situations where you've successfully managed employee relations cases. Whether it’s handling a grievance or leading a mediation session, having concrete examples will help you demonstrate your skills and experience effectively.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As an Employee Relations Specialist, strong communication is key. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. You might even want to role-play potential scenarios with a friend to get comfortable with the types of discussions you’ll be having.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Research the organisation's values and culture. Understanding their approach to employee relations will allow you to tailor your responses and show how you can contribute to their goals while maintaining a positive workplace environment.
