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- Tasks: Lead union negotiations and pay discussions, influencing key stakeholders.
- Company: Join a major UK organisation navigating complex employee relations.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model with competitive salary and senior support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national IR strategy and employee outcomes.
- Qualifications: Experience in pay negotiations and union consultations is essential.
- Other info: This is a 12-month fixed-term contract with significant autonomy.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
A major UK-based organisation in a highly unionised, operationally complex environment is seeking an experienced Employee Relations Lead to take charge of union negotiations and pay talks over the course of a critical 12-month period.
With the interim HR leadership focused on wider organisational priorities, this role will operate with full senior backing to own and lead all aspects of employee consultation and collective bargaining activity.
The Role: Key Responsibilities
- Lead all phases of union negotiations and pay discussions, from scoping and prep through to agreement and implementation.
- Act as the senior voice at the table, influencing union representatives and full-time officers directly.
- Drive strategic planning and risk analysis ahead of each negotiation phase, working closely with HR, Finance, and operational leadership.
- Provide legal and procedural guidance on TUPE, redundancy, and employment law matters.
- Build credibility with internal stakeholders, coaching them through complex IR landscapes.
- Adapt to fast-changing dynamics while holding a steady line in high-conflict, high-stakes settings.
Ideal Candidate Profile
- Demonstrated success as the lead negotiator in pay talks and union consultations.
- Background in unionised sectors such as transport, manufacturing, logistics, or heavy industry.
- Working knowledge of UK employment law, redundancy procedures, and collective bargaining agreements.
- Comfortable working with unions – Must have extensive experience pay negotiation background with union.
Attributes:
- Assertive, composed, and credible under pressure.
- Hands-on and strategically minded, able to plan and execute independently.
- Strong communicator and relationship-builder — calm in conflict, clear in ambiguity.
- Not reliant on large team structures — thrives in lean, agile environments.
Why This Role?
While this is a fixed-term position, it’s a pivotal one — with the potential to influence national-level IR strategy and deliver meaningful outcomes for both management and employee groups. You’ll have full ownership of your brief, with senior leadership support and the autonomy to lead from the front.
Employee Relations Manager - Pay Talks & Negotiations employer: Practicus
Contact Detail:
Practicus Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Employee Relations Manager - Pay Talks & Negotiations
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific union dynamics and historical context of the organisation you're applying to. Understanding past negotiations and outcomes can give you a significant edge in discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the employee relations field, especially those who have experience in unionised environments. They can provide insights and tips that are invaluable for your approach to negotiations.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on current trends and changes in UK employment law, particularly those affecting collective bargaining. This knowledge will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to showcase your negotiation skills through role-play or mock scenarios. Practising how to handle high-pressure situations can help you articulate your strategies effectively during interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Employee Relations Manager - Pay Talks & Negotiations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in employee relations, pay negotiations, and union consultations. Use specific examples that demonstrate your success as a lead negotiator in similar environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that clearly outlines your motivation for applying and how your background aligns with the key responsibilities of the role. Emphasise your experience in unionised sectors and your understanding of UK employment law.
Showcase Your Skills: In your application, highlight your assertiveness, strategic planning abilities, and strong communication skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully navigated high-stakes negotiations and built relationships with stakeholders.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or inconsistencies. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Practicus
✨Research the Organisation
Before your interview, make sure to thoroughly research the organisation's history, values, and recent developments. Understanding their approach to employee relations and any past negotiations will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your negotiation skills and ability to handle conflict. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully navigated challenging discussions or reached agreements with unions, highlighting your strategic planning and risk analysis.
✨Showcase Your Knowledge of Employment Law
Since this role requires a solid understanding of UK employment law and collective bargaining agreements, be ready to discuss relevant legislation and how it applies to the role. This will demonstrate your expertise and reassure the interviewers of your capability to provide legal guidance.
✨Emphasise Your Communication Skills
As a key negotiator, strong communication skills are essential. Be prepared to discuss how you build relationships with stakeholders and manage high-stakes conversations. Use specific examples to illustrate your calmness under pressure and clarity in ambiguous situations.
