At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide expert guidance on employee relations and support a positive workplace culture.
- Company: Join Saputo, a top global dairy processor with iconic British brands.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, bonuses, private healthcare, and generous holiday allowance.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse and inclusive environment that values your contributions.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a supportive team while developing your HR skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in employee relations or HR advisory roles is essential.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
At Saputo, we bring good to the table by making high-quality products, investing in our people, and supporting communities around the world. As a top 10 global dairy processor, we value contributions that matter and strive to foster an inclusive, growth-driven work environment.
ABOUT SAPUTO
Saputo Dairy UK are the company behind iconic British brands such as Cathedral City, Clover, Country Life, Frylight, Davidstow and Wensleydale—household names loved by millions. Saputo Dairy UK is part of Saputo Inc., a top ten global dairy company, offering the best of both worlds: the agility and warmth of a dedicated UK business with the support and resources of a global group. We pride ourselves on our inclusive, collaborative culture, where people are valued, supported and empowered to make a difference. Our commitment to sustainability, innovation and quality makes us a leader in the UK food industry. Saputo’s Weybridge site is the UK HQ, where many of our central functions are based including our friendly and welcoming HR team!
ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY
We're looking for an Employee Relations specialist to provide expert guidance and support on employee relations matters across the business, whilst ensuring a fair and consistent application of HR policies and procedures. The role involves advising HR Business Partners, managers, and employees on ER issues, promoting a positive working environment, and mitigating risk through proactive case management. This role would suit an HR generalist who is looking to specialise or someone who is already a specialist in employee relations and wants to join a team where they can make a difference. We are a fairly new team, so this gives you the opportunity to help create a function that is set for success. The case work is fast paced and high volume, so if you have experience in an environment such as manufacturing, FMCG, retail, leisure, hospitality or similar, then this will offer you the chance to keep growing and developing your skills with exposure to high level cases and multi-site challenges.
YOU’LL MAKE CONTRIBUTIONS THAT MATTER THROUGH…
- Case Management
- Lead and support on disciplinary, grievance, capability, and absence management cases
- Ensure cases are handled in line with company policy, employment law, and best practice
- ACAS Conciliation and Tribunal Case Support
- Liaise with ACAS conciliators and employment lawyers
- Prepare clear case summaries, timelines, evidence packs and risk assessments
- Advise on the recommended approach, balancing legal risk, commercial considerations, employee relations impact and the wider business context
- Change Support
- Support HRBPs and managers with TUPE, redundancy and organisational change processes
- Provide guidance on consultation planning, employee communications, selection processes, documentation and risk management
- Advisory Support
- Provide timely and professional advice to HRBPs and managers on ER issues
- Coach and support line managers to build confidence in handling people matters
- Policies and Compliance
- Contribute to the development and review of HR policies and procedures
- Ensure compliance with employment legislation and internal governance, e.g. SOPs
- Support audits and reporting requirements relating to ER activity
- Employee Engagement and Wellbeing
- Promote a positive employee experience through fair treatment and resolution of concerns
- Support initiatives that enhance employee wellbeing and engagement
- Identify trends and recommend proactive interventions
- Training and Development
- Deliver training sessions on ER topics such as managing absence, handling grievances and conducting investigations
- Support the development of ER resources and toolkits for managers
- Stakeholder Collaboration
- Work closely with HRLT, HR Business Partners, HRSC, Occupational Health, and other stakeholders
- Build strong relationships across the business
YOU’RE BEST SUITED FOR THE ROLE IF YOU HAVE…
- Proven experience in employee relations or HR advisory role
- Strong knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practices
- Excellent communication, influencing, and coaching skills
- The ability to manage multiple cases with sensitivity and discretion
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Desirable
- CIPD qualified or working towards
- Experience in a unionised environment
- Familiarity with HR systems and case management tools
WE SUPPORT AND CARE FOR OUR EMPLOYEES BY PROVIDING YOU WITH…
- Hybrid and flexible working opportunities
- Annual bonus up to 10% paid quarterly
- Long service recognition every 5 years
- Enhanced employer pension contributions
- Private Health Care
- Health Cash Plan - claim money back up to a set limit of c.£700 per annum on essential healthcare
- Life Assurance
- Free, on-site parking
- Discounted SDUK branded products
- Subsidised staff restaurant
- 25 Holidays + 8 bank holidays
- My Staff shop - access to exclusive benefits, free advice and savings - providing great discounts from thousands of the UK’s largest retailers & service providers
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION AT SAPUTO
We support employment equity. Saputo strives to embed diversity and inclusion in its operations and invites candidates from all horizons to join our team. To enable you to bring your best we will ensure you are provided with any physical or non-physical adjustments to support your participation in the job application and interview process.
Advisor, Employee Relations in Weybridge employer: Saputo
At Saputo, we pride ourselves on fostering an inclusive and collaborative culture that empowers our employees to make meaningful contributions. Located in Weybridge, Surrey, our UK headquarters offers a supportive environment with ample opportunities for professional growth, competitive benefits, and a commitment to employee wellbeing. Join us to be part of a dynamic team where your expertise in employee relations will help shape a function set for success within a leading global dairy company.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Advisor, Employee Relations in Weybridge
✨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 Saputo!
✨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 Saputo.
We think you need these skills to ace Advisor, Employee Relations in Weybridge
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 Saputo. 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 Saputo 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 Saputo. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Saputo'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 Saputo
✨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 Saputo.
✨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 Saputo 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 Saputo and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
