At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead employee relations strategy and build strong relationships with trade unions.
- Company: Join a major manufacturing organisation in Norwich with a values-led culture.
- Benefits: Flexible working, part-time options, 23 days leave, and health benefits.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and a supportive workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while shaping industrial relations.
- Qualifications: CIPD qualification or relevant degree, plus experience in unionised environments.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
Waddington Brown is partnering with a major manufacturing organisation in Norwich to appoint an experienced Employee Relations Consultant on an initial 6-month fixed-term contract. This is a high-impact role working closely with the Group HR Director to help shape and strengthen employee and industrial relations across a large, unionised workforce. This opportunity would suit a commercially minded ER specialist who thrives in complex environments, enjoys building trusted stakeholder relationships, and can confidently influence at both operational and strategic levels.
You will lead with confidence and play a visible and influential role within a large-scale manufacturing operation, helping shape industrial relations strategy during a key period for the business.
What's on offer:
- Flexible working arrangements available
- Option to work part-time (4 days per week, Monday-Thursday)
- 23 days annual leave pro rata
- Medical single cover
- 1 day off for birthday
- Pension 3% employer contribution
- Access to recognition and benefits platform with high street discounts
- Opportunity to work within a well-established, values-led organisation
Key responsibilities as Employee Relations Consultant:
- Lead the delivery of the industrial relations strategy across the manufacturing division, supporting the successful implementation of collective agreements
- Develop credible, collaborative relationships with trade union representatives and operational stakeholders to support positive workforce engagement and minimise industrial relations risk
- Act as a trusted advisor on complex individual and collective employment matters, balancing legal compliance, operational priorities and employee engagement
- Support the design and facilitation of industrial relations training for managers and internal stakeholders
- Oversee workforce data, reporting and governance activity, ensuring robust audit and compliance standards are maintained
About you:
- You will bring a CIPD qualification or degree-level education in a relevant discipline
- Proven experience managing industrial relations within a unionised environment
- Strong working knowledge of employment law and collective consultation processes
- A track record of building credible and constructive relationships with trade unions
- Excellent communication, influencing and stakeholder management skills
Due to the relationship-focused nature of the role, regular on-site presence is important, although there is flexibility to work from home on occasion. The role can also be undertaken on a part-time basis, with Friday as the non-working day.
If this role sounds of interest to you and you are able to start at short notice, please reach out to Eithne Sanders at Waddington Brown for an informal conversation.
Employee Relations Consultant in Bedford employer: Waddington Brown
Waddington Brown offers a dynamic and supportive work environment for Employee Relations Consultants, particularly within the thriving manufacturing sector in Norwich. With flexible working arrangements, generous annual leave, and a strong commitment to employee development, this values-led organisation fosters a culture of collaboration and trust, making it an excellent choice for professionals seeking to make a meaningful impact in industrial relations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Employee Relations Consultant in Bedford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who work in employee relations or HR. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they approach employee relations. This will help you tailor your responses and show them you're the perfect fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Employee Relations Consultant. Highlight your skills in building relationships and managing complex situations – these are key in this line of work.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Employee Relations Consultant in Bedford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Employee Relations Consultant role. Highlight your experience in managing industrial relations and any relevant qualifications, like your CIPD certification. We want to see how your background aligns with the job description!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention your experience with trade unions and your ability to build relationships. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm for the position!
Showcase Your Skills:In your application, don’t forget to showcase your communication and influencing skills. Give examples of how you've successfully navigated complex environments and built trusted stakeholder relationships. We’re looking for those standout moments!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Waddington Brown
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of employment law and collective consultation processes. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're the right fit for the role and can handle complex situations.
✨Build Relationships
Since this role involves working closely with trade unions and operational stakeholders, think about how you can demonstrate your relationship-building skills. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in the past.
✨Showcase Your Influence
Be ready to talk about times when you've influenced decisions at both operational and strategic levels. This is key for the role, so having specific examples will help you stand out as a candidate who can lead with confidence.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the company's industrial relations strategy and how they engage with their workforce. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand if it's the right fit for you.
