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- Tasks: Lead HR strategy and employee relations during a key transition period.
- Company: Join the British Library, the national library of the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, flexible working, and a Civil Service pension.
- Why this job: Shape people strategy and make a real impact in a historic institution.
- Qualifications: Extensive HR leadership experience in complex, unionised environments required.
- Other info: We value diversity and encourage applications from all backgrounds.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 84826 £ per year.
Location: St Pancras, London
Contract: 6 months
Hours: Full time (36 hours)
Salary: £65,972 - £84,826 per annum
Are you an experienced HR leader with a passion for leading on employee relations and shaping people strategy at a senior level? The British Library is seeking an exceptional Head of Employee Relations & HR Business Partnering to provide strategic leadership during a period of important structural transition.
About the Role
You will lead our HR Business Partnering and Employee Relations functions, ensuring consistency, stability, and strategic progression across both generalist and specialist areas. Your remit will span Employee Relations (ER), Industrial Relations (IR), complex casework, employment risk management and the leadership of both the HR Business Partnering team and the Pay, Policy and Employee Relations team. As the senior advisor on ER strategy you will play a central role in maintaining constructive relationships with our recognised trade unions, representing the Library at a senior level to support effective negotiation, consultation, and collective engagement.
About You
You will bring extensive experience in senior HR leadership roles, particularly in complex, unionised environments. You will be confident navigating challenging ER landscapes, advising at executive level and influencing outcomes that support both organisational performance and a positive colleague experience. You will also be a skilled people leader, able to motivate teams and manage change.
About us
We are the national library of the UK and we are here for everyone. Our shelves hold over 170 million items – a living collection that gets bigger every day. Although our roots extend back centuries, we aim to collect everything published in the UK today, tomorrow and far into the future. Our trusted experts care for this collection and open it up for everyone to spark new discoveries, ideas and to help people do incredible things.
What we can offer you
- 25 days’ holiday plus 2.5 privilege days
- Access to a defined benefit Civil Service pension scheme
- Flexible working arrangements, including flexi-time
Full details of employee benefits can be found on our Careers: Benefits
Things you need to know
We are unable to provide sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker visa for this role. Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check (DBS check). Artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn. We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian, Mixed Race and other ethnically diverse candidates and disabled candidates. Creating an inclusive workplace is the core of our business and a way to engage the diversity of thought that is essential to achieve our aims.
Closing at 23:59 on Sunday 01 March 2026
Head of Employee Relations and HR Business Partnering employer: The British Library
Contact Detail:
The British Library Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Employee Relations and HR Business Partnering
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the HR field, especially those who have experience 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 researching the company culture and recent news. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in the role at the British Library.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Head of Employee Relations, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to handle complex discussions. Role-play with a friend to build confidence before the big day.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at the British Library.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Employee Relations and HR Business Partnering
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Head of Employee Relations and HR Business Partnering. Highlight your experience in HR leadership, especially in complex, unionised environments, and showcase how you've influenced outcomes in previous roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell your story! Explain why you're passionate about employee relations and how your strategic leadership can benefit the British Library during its structural transition. Be genuine and let your personality shine through.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When filling out your application, focus on specific examples from your past that demonstrate your skills in managing employee relations and leading teams. Use metrics where possible to show the impact of your work – numbers speak volumes!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at The British Library
✨Know Your ER and IR Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of employee relations and industrial relations. Be ready to discuss specific cases you've handled in the past, especially in unionised environments. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience navigating complex situations.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Employee Relations, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead teams effectively. Prepare examples of how you've motivated teams through change or managed difficult conversations. Highlight your approach to fostering a positive colleague experience while achieving organisational goals.
✨Understand the Library's Mission
Familiarise yourself with the British Library’s mission and values. Be prepared to discuss how your vision for employee relations aligns with their goals. Showing that you understand their unique context will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare for Negotiation Scenarios
Since you'll be representing the Library in negotiations, think about potential scenarios you might face. Prepare your strategies for effective consultation and collective engagement with trade unions. This will demonstrate your readiness to handle the responsibilities of the role.