At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide expert advice on employee relations and support managers with complex cases.
- Company: Join Portsmouth City Council, a unique organisation committed to making a difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a focus on teamwork, respect, and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting transformation and help shape future services for the community.
- Qualifications: CIPD qualified or equivalent experience; strong consultative and conflict resolution skills.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
HR is responsible for providing a service that is fit for purpose and understands the needs of the business. Our Employee Relations Team provides a comprehensive and professional employee relations service to the City Council, schools and academies. We are seeking a passionate and experienced Employee Relations Advisor to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for managing employee relations matters across the council and within maintained schools and academy clients. The role supports and advises on complex employee relations case work, ensuring high standards of customer service and communication whilst continuing to seek improved performance.
Main Duties and Responsibilities:
- Provide expert advice and support on employee relations issues, including conflict resolution, performance management, disciplinary actions, and grievance procedures.
- Collaborate with HR and management teams to develop and implement effective employee relations strategies.
- Support managers to conduct investigations and provide recommendations on complex employee relations cases.
- Facilitate training sessions and workshops on employee relations topics for staff and management.
- Ensure compliance with employment laws and regulations.
- Promote a culture of teamwork, respect, and outstanding customer service.
Who is the person:
- Be able to manage conflicting demands and deal with high volume enquiries.
- Be CIPD qualified or have proven equivalent experience or willing to work toward being CIPD Qualified.
- Experience of working with complex cases utilising policies and procedures and the ability to interpret and implement these.
- Able to demonstrate a consultative approach, working with managers/Head Teachers in advising, influencing a solution focused approach.
- Have proven successful experience of operational HR delivering successful outcomes on complex employee relations matters and casework.
- Have proven experience of providing professional advice to Senior Manager/Head Teachers assisting them to drive business processes.
- Have experience in working with Trade Unions or workplace representatives.
- Having a good understanding of safeguarding principles and legislation.
Portsmouth City Council is a unique organisation, committed to making a difference, and is guided by core values that set who we are as people, what we stand for, and how we act. We are committed to our values of respect, integrity, collaboration, inclusivity and being people-focussed. These values set out how we can contribute to the success of the council and our own success as individuals.
This is an exciting time to join us, offering the opportunity to contribute to organisational transformation, develop your career, and help shape future services for our communities.
We offer hybrid working with the expectation to attend the office minimum 2 days a week (pro rata for part time), this remains flexible, depending on the role and subject to business needs.
We are not able to offer sponsorship for this position.
You must demonstrate why you are suitable against each of the points described in the 'Who is the Person' points on the Job Profile using examples from your experience or transferable skills. This might be through qualifications or descriptive examples from your work/personal experience, which clearly illustrates what you did and the effect it had. If you apply without a detailed personal statement, it is unlikely that you will be successful.
Please note we reserve the right to close the advert early if we have a large number of applications. We are a disability confident employer and Armed Forces Covenant gold standard.
Employee Relations Advisor - Portsmouth employer: Portsmouth City Council
Portsmouth City Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values collaboration and innovation. With a focus on employee growth, the council provides numerous training opportunities and a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in the public sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Employee Relations Advisor - Portsmouth
✨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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth City Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Employee Relations Advisor - Portsmouth
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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth City Council and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.