At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and evolve Employee Relations, driving strategic change and operational excellence.
- Company: Join Serco, a global leader in delivering essential public services.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, private healthcare, flexible working, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to innovation and community service.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on employee experience and shape the future of ER services.
- Qualifications: Extensive ER experience and proven leadership skills in complex environments.
The predicted salary is between 22430 - 27414 £ per year.
Head of Employee Relations Hybrid – Solihull, B91 3QJFull Time, Permanent Band 2 / 70,000-85,000 (dependent on experience) Here at Serco, we're looking for an exceptional Head of Employee Relations to lead and evolve our Employee Relations function.
This is a pivotal management role, combining strategic influence, operational excellence and transformation.
Joining us at a time of significant change, you'll lead Serco's response to major employment law reform while helping to shape the future of Employee Relations through technology, innovation and service transformation.
Working closely with senior business leaders, People teams, Legal and external partners, you'll drive continuous improvement, build future capability and ensure the function evolves to meet the changing needs of the business.
We're looking for a credible and resilient leader with deep ER expertise, strong judgement, exceptional stakeholder management skills and a proven ability to lead teams through change in large, complex and fast-paced environments.
Shape and deliver the longer-term ER strategy, service model and transformation roadmap.
Lead, engage and develop a large ER team, building the capability and skills required for the future.
Ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality, legally compliant ER services against agreed service levels, performance measures and budgets.
Provide strategic oversight of complex, sensitive and high-risk employee relations matters.
Lead Serco's approach to industrial relations, putting strategy into practice through effective trade union relationships, recognition and consultation arrangements, dispute prevention and management of significant risks.
Maintain oversight of employment tribunal activity and advocacy, working with internal teams and external legal counsel where appropriate ensuring early risk assessment, sound litigation decisions and learning that improves the ER service Use case data, trends and lessons learned to identify risks, improve policy and strengthen manager capability.
Monitor emerging employment legislation and external developments, ensuring policies, training and operational guidance remain current.
Significant senior-level Employee Relations experience gained within a large, complex and fast-paced organisation.
Proven experience of leading and developing sizeable ER teams, with a strong focus on performance, capability and engagement.
Experience of leading complex change or transformation, ideally involving new technology, case management platforms or service redesign.
Strong knowledge of complex ER case management, including restructures, redundancies, disciplinary and grievance matters.
As Head of Employee Relations, your work will help protect the organisation, strengthen the employee experience and shape how ER services are delivered across Serco.
You'll have the opportunity to lead high-profile legislative and technology change while influencing the future direction of a critical business function.
This is an opportunity to work with experienced colleagues, lead meaningful transformation and make a visible impact across a large and diverse workforce.
Company car / cash alternative Private healthcare10% on target bonus scheme Flexible working considered Pension – 6%Chance to contribute to innovation in the public services A company passionate about diversity and inclusion Serco discounts which include cinema, merlin entertainment and online shopping discounts, and discounts on mobile phone plans and leisure centre memberships.
A range of benefits to support the health and wellbeing of you and your family such as Employee Assistance Programme, Simply Health Cash Plans, and more.
A wealth of career development training to suit your future aspirations.
These range from role specific training, leadership coaching, formal study and much more to support you to build your career with Serco.
A little bit about us: At Serco, everyone plays a vital part in delivering essential public services that make a real difference.
As a global team of 50,000 people across Defence, Transport, Justice, Immigration, Healthcare, Leisure and Citizen Services, we're united by a shared purpose: to improve the services that communities rely on.
Our inclusive recruitment commitment: As a Disability Confident Leader, the Top Great British Employer of Veterans 2026, and a Gold Inclusive Employer Standard holder, we champion equal opportunities for all.
We offer flexible and hybrid working where possible and make reasonable adjustments throughout recruitment and employment.
Applicants with disabilities, veterans and people with convictions, who meet the minimum job criteria, are guaranteed an interview.
For support with your application, please contact recruitmentuk@serco.
Head of Employee Relations (Permanent) in Solihull employer: Serco Group
Serco is an exceptional employer that prioritises the protection of data as a core value, ensuring trust and integrity in its operations across various critical public services. With a competitive salary, generous benefits including a company car or allowance, and a commitment to employee growth through flexible working arrangements, Serco fosters a collaborative work culture where every team member can influence strategic decisions and contribute to meaningful change. As a Disability Confident Leader and Gold Inclusive Employer Standard holder, Serco champions diversity and equal opportunities, making it an attractive workplace for all.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Employee Relations (Permanent) in Solihull
✨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 Serco Group!
✨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 Serco Group.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Employee Relations (Permanent) in Solihull
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 Serco Group. 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 Serco Group 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 Serco Group. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Serco Group'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 Serco Group
✨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 Serco Group.
✨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 Serco Group 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 Serco Group and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
