At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex negotiations for pilot agreements and workforce arrangements.
- Company: Join Virgin Atlantic, a leader in the aviation industry with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential for extension and significant impact on the organisation.
- Why this job: Influence high-profile decisions and shape the future of our pilot workforce.
- Qualifications: Experience in industrial relations and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Location: Hybrid - VHQ in Crawley, West Sussex or Heathrow Airport - hybrid working policy 3 days onsite
In a nutshell
As our Lead Pilot Negotiator, you'll be the lead industrial relations specialist for the Flight Operations pilot community, leading complex negotiations that shape the future of our pilot workforce.
Working with senior leaders and recognised trade union representatives, you'll develop negotiation strategies, provide expert advice and help deliver commercially balanced, legally compliant outcomes that support both our people and our operation.
This is a unique opportunity to influence high-profile workforce decisions while building trusted relationships across Virgin Atlantic.
Day to day
As our Lead Pilot Negotiator, you will
- Lead complex negotiations relating to pilot collective agreements and workforce arrangements.
- Develop negotiation strategies and bargaining proposals that support Flight Operations objectives.
- Provide specialist industrial relations advice on workforce initiatives, organisational change and employment matters.
- Build trusted relationships with recognised trade union representatives and senior stakeholders.
- Assess the operational, commercial and financial impact of negotiation proposals, providing clear recommendations.
- Support the modernisation of collective agreements to ensure they remain fit for the future.
- Help resolve complex workforce issues through collaborative engagement and constructive dialogue.
- Keep up to date with employment legislation and industrial relations best practice.
About You
We're looking for an experienced industrial relations professional who thrives in complex, unionised environments and enjoys influencing positive business outcomes through collaboration, negotiation and sound judgement.
- In addition to the above, we'd love for our successful candidate to demonstrate:
- Significant experience leading complex negotiations.
- Extensive industrial and employee relations experience.
- Strong understanding of employment legislation and industrial relations practice.
- Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills.
- Commercial awareness and strategic thinking.
- Strong analytical and decision-making capability.
- Outstanding communication and relationship-building skills.
If this sounds like you, and you would like to unlock your potential with us, we would love to hear from you!
Lead - Negotiator in Crawley employer: Virgin holidays
Virgin Atlantic is an exceptional employer for pilots, offering a dynamic work culture at the iconic London Heathrow. With a commitment to employee growth through industry-leading training and a competitive salary, we foster a supportive environment where your passion for flying can truly thrive. Join us in our mission to be the most loved travel company and experience the unique advantages of working with one of the most advanced fleets in the skies.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead - Negotiator in Crawley
✨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 Virgin holidays!
✨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 Virgin holidays.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead - Negotiator in Crawley
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 Virgin holidays. 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 Virgin holidays 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 Virgin holidays. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Virgin holidays'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 Virgin holidays
✨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 Virgin holidays.
✨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 Virgin holidays 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 Virgin holidays and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
