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- Tasks: Lead employee relations and develop HR policies to enhance workplace culture.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking organisation committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and competitive salary.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on wellbeing and culture in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Degree and HR experience, with strong communication and negotiation skills.
- Other info: Opportunities for hybrid work and career growth in a diverse community.
The predicted salary is between 50253 - 53301 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced HR professional to join our HR Policy and Reward team to support our Strategy 2030 and develop and progress our Wellbeing, Inclusion, and Culture priorities to effect positive change in our working environment for colleagues. Working as part of a collaborative HR team committed to continuous improvement, with the opportunity for hybrid working, you will be able to apply your excellent communication and relationship management skills and HR experience to make a real impact on our organisational culture.
In this role, you will:
- Maintain a positive working relationship with campus trade unions through formal and informal meetings and lead consultations and negotiations with trade unions on key projects.
- Support HR Partners and senior managers in managing employee relations during organisational change.
- Working as part of a team of HR professionals, develop, review, and implement HR policies aligned with best practice and legislative requirements and provide expert advice on employment law and HR policy interpretation.
- Represent HR on cross-University working groups.
We are looking for someone with:
- A degree or equivalent qualification and CIPD Level 5 or MCIPD membership (or equivalent experience).
- Significant experience in employee relations, including working with trade unions.
- Strong knowledge of employment and equality law.
- Excellent negotiation, influencing, and communication skills.
- Proven ability to manage projects and deliver innovative HR solutions.
This full-time post is available immediately on a permanent basis. The starting salary will be from £50,253 to £53,301 on Grade G, depending on knowledge, skills and experience. This role offers the opportunity for hybrid working - some time on campus and some from home. We welcome applications from candidates interested in working part-time hours or job-sharing arrangements.
Further Information: Please contact Andrew Johnson, Deputy Director of HR at a.johnson@exeter.ac.uk. Applications close on 20.04.2026.
About Us: We are committed to understanding different cultures and perspectives, supporting diverse leadership, and striving for social justice. We encourage applications from all groups underrepresented in our community, including racially minoritised individuals and those with disabilities. Our inclusive, merit-based recruitment processes seek to embrace a diverse set of experiences to ensure colleagues feel supported equitably. With over 30,000 students and 7,000 staff from 150 countries, we foster a culture where everyone can thrive.
Why our colleagues love working here:
- Flexible working opportunities and leading parental leave initiatives
- Generous annual leave (39-41 days including bank holidays)
- Competitive pension contributions
- A genuine dedication to supporting the health and wellbeing of all colleagues
- Sustainability and the environment being at the heart of what we do
If you’re considering applying and need support to do so, please get in touch with us at hrhelpdesk@exeter.ac.uk. You can request reasonable adjustments within your application or by contacting us. You can also choose to be considered under our Disability Confident Scheme.
Employee Relations and HR Policy Manager in Exeter employer: University of Exeter
Contact Detail:
University of Exeter Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Employee Relations and HR Policy Manager in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees or alumni from your university who work in HR or employee relations. A friendly chat can give you insider info about the company culture and even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching common HR scenarios and how you would handle them. Think about your past experiences with trade unions and employee relations, and be ready to share specific examples that showcase your skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your communication skills! During interviews, practice clear and concise responses. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and demonstrate your problem-solving abilities.
✨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 genuinely interested in being part of our team and contributing to our inclusive culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Employee Relations and HR Policy Manager in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. Make sure you understand what we're looking for in terms of skills and experience. Tailor your application to highlight how your background aligns with our needs.
Showcase Your Experience: When writing your application, don’t just list your qualifications. Share specific examples of your past experiences, especially those related to employee relations and working with trade unions. We want to see how you've made an impact in previous roles!
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We value authenticity and want to get a sense of who you are beyond your CV. Share your passion for HR and how you can contribute to our culture and wellbeing priorities.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Exeter
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of employment and equality law. This role requires a strong understanding of these areas, so be prepared to discuss how you've applied this knowledge in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since this position involves maintaining relationships with trade unions and senior managers, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Think of examples where your communication skills made a difference in resolving employee relations issues.
✨Prepare for Negotiation Scenarios
Expect to be asked about your negotiation experience. Prepare specific examples of past negotiations you've led or participated in, especially those involving trade unions or organisational change.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
This role is all about collaboration within the HR team. Be ready to share instances where you've worked effectively as part of a team, particularly in developing or implementing HR policies.