At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage complex employee relations cases and support managers with expert advice.
- Company: Join a respected construction organisation with a supportive People Team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, benefits, bonus potential, and hybrid working.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a people-first culture while developing your career.
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 5 qualified or working towards, with experience in managing ER cases.
- Other info: Enjoy autonomy in your role and be part of a collaborative team.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
Competitive Salary + Benefits + Bonus Potential
Central Belt - Edinburgh, Glasgow or Falkirk | Hybrid
Full UK driving licence and access to own vehicle required.
Are you an experienced Employee Relations specialist who enjoys being embedded in the business and trusted to handle complex, hands-on casework? This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-established and growing construction organisation as an Employee Relations Specialist, working within a supportive and respected People Team that partners closely with managers to deliver fair, consistent, and commercially sound people outcomes. This role has ownership of complex and high-volume casework across multiple regions. You’ll work closely with managers, coaching them through people challenges while building confidence and capability across the business.
What you’ll be doing:
- Managing a high-volume ER caseload end-to-end, including disciplinary, grievance, absence, performance, and investigation matters.
- Leading and supporting complex investigations, hearings, and performance management processes.
- Providing expert advice on employment law and internal policy, ensuring fair, consistent, and compliant decision-making.
- Acting as a trusted advisor to managers across construction, sales, and support functions.
- Supporting organisational change activity, including TUPEs, restructures and redundancy processes where required.
- Designing and delivering practical line-manager training, particularly for technically skilled managers new to leadership.
- Promoting a people-first, values-led culture built on trust, respect, and accountability.
What we’re looking for:
- CIPD Level 5 qualified (or working towards) as a minimum; Level 7 preferred.
- Demonstrable experience managing complex ER cases independently, end-to-end.
- Confident advising, coaching, and influencing managers at all levels.
- Strong working knowledge of UK employment law and best practice.
- A credible, pragmatic communicator with a personable, down-to-earth style.
- Highly organised, resilient, and comfortable working at pace.
- Proactive, solutions-focused, with a genuine passion for employee relations.
- A full UK driving licence and access to a car are essential.
Why join?
You’ll be trusted to manage your workload and diary autonomously, within a business that values its people. You’ll join a collaborative, well-regarded People Team that is embedded in the business, supported by a manager who values independence, professional judgement, and development. If you’re an experienced Employee Relations professional who enjoys complex casework, influencing managers, and making a tangible impact, this role offers a genuinely rewarding next step. Apply now or email for more information – this one will move quickly!
Employee Relations Specialist employer: Syme Drummond Ltd
Contact Detail:
Syme Drummond Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Employee Relations Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who work in employee relations. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to employee relations. Think about your past experiences and how they align with the role. We want you to showcase your expertise confidently!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Employee Relations Specialist role. We’re all about making the process smooth and ensuring your application gets the attention it deserves!
We think you need these skills to ace Employee Relations Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Employee Relations Specialist role. Highlight your experience with complex casework and any relevant qualifications, like your CIPD Level 5 or 7. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about employee relations and how your background makes you a perfect fit for us. Don’t forget to mention your proactive approach and solutions-focused mindset!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As an Employee Relations Specialist, strong communication is key. In your application, demonstrate your ability to advise and influence managers. Use clear, concise language and a personable tone to reflect your down-to-earth style.
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 get you in front of the right people quickly. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Syme Drummond Ltd
✨Know Your Employment Law
Brush up on UK employment law and internal policies before your interview. Being able to discuss relevant legislation confidently will show that you’re not just knowledgeable but also ready to provide expert advice in the role.
✨Prepare for Casework Scenarios
Think of specific examples from your past experience managing complex ER cases. Be ready to walk through your thought process and the outcomes, as this will demonstrate your hands-on expertise and problem-solving skills.
✨Show Your Coaching Skills
Since the role involves coaching managers, prepare to discuss how you've successfully influenced and guided others in the past. Share anecdotes that highlight your ability to build confidence and capability in others.
✨Emphasise Your People-First Approach
The company values a people-first culture, so be sure to articulate how you promote trust, respect, and accountability in your work. Discuss how you’ve contributed to a positive workplace environment in previous roles.