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- Tasks: Manage complex employee relations cases and support organisational change initiatives.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Oxford, a leader in global education and research.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days of annual leave, flexible working, and a generous family leave scheme.
- Other info: Collaborate with senior stakeholders and contribute to meaningful organisational change.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a diverse environment while shaping HR strategies.
- Qualifications: Strong experience in employee relations and knowledge of UK employment law required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 ÂŁ per year.
We’re looking for an experienced Employee Relations Specialist to join our People Department on a 12-month fixed-term contract.
Location: Hybrid working with regular office days at Worcester Street, Oxford
Contract: Full Time/Part Time also considered (min 0.8 FTE), Fixed Term Contract (12 months)
About Us
Spanning the historic streets of the “city of dreaming spires”, the University of Oxford has been ranked the world’s leading university for ten consecutive years. A place where centuries of tradition meet world-changing innovation, we offer you the chance to shape the future while working in an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. Here, you’ll contribute to an organisation which delivers ground-breaking research that tackles global challenges - from advancing sustainability to pioneering healthcare solutions - and join a diverse, inclusive community that champions your wellbeing, development, and aspirations.
The People Department is a trusted partner at the University, providing a broad range of specialist HR services across academic and professional departments.
What We Offer
- 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days and additional leave after long service.
- One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave.
- A commitment to hybrid and flexible working to suit your lifestyle.
- An excellent contributory pension scheme.
- Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
- Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.
About the Role
This is a unique opportunity to work across a highly diverse, devolved organisation, partnering with departments spanning academic and professional services. You’ll handle a varied and often complex ER caseload, gaining exposure to senior stakeholders and contributing to meaningful organisational change.
- Managing complex and high-risk ER casework, including disciplinary, grievance, and organisational change
- Supporting cases up to and including employment tribunals
- Advising on TUPE, restructuring, policy interpretation, and employee relations strategy
- Partnering with departments to align HR support with business objectives and risk management
- Contributing to policy development and continuous improvement
- Delivering training and briefings to managers and HR colleagues
About You
- Strong ER experience across a broad range of casework (ideally in a complex or unionised environment)
- Up-to-date knowledge of UK employment law
- Ability to influence and build relationships with senior stakeholders
- Experience supporting organisational change initiatives
- Excellent judgement, communication, and problem-solving skills
Application Process
To apply, please upload the details of two referees. The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 15 May. Interviews will take place on an ongoing basis throughout the campaign.
Employee Relations Specialist employer: University of Oxford
Contact Detail:
University of Oxford 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 current or former employees at the University of Oxford on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research common questions for Employee Relations Specialists and practice your answers. We recommend using the STAR method to showcase your experience effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your personality! During interviews, let your passion for employee relations shine through. Share stories that highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to handle complex cases.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our amazing team.
We think you need these skills to ace Employee Relations Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Employee Relations Specialist role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We want to see how you can contribute to our People Department!
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 aligns with our values at the University of Oxford. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your ER Experience: Since this role involves managing complex ER cases, be sure to showcase your experience in this area. Share specific examples of how you've handled similar situations in the past, as we love to see real-world applications of your skills.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Know Your ER Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UK employment law and employee relations best practices. Be ready to discuss specific cases you've handled, especially those involving complex or high-risk situations. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As an Employee Relations Specialist, you'll need to influence and build relationships with senior stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated complex information in the past. Think about times when your communication skills made a difference in resolving an issue.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Abilities
Be ready to discuss how you've approached challenging ER cases. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. This will help you clearly convey your thought process and the positive outcomes of your interventions.
✨Align with Their Values
Research the University of Oxford's values and mission. During the interview, express how your personal values align with theirs, especially regarding diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing. This shows that you're not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely want to contribute to their community.