At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape employee relations strategy and build strong stakeholder relationships in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
- Company: Join a major manufacturing organisation in Norwich with a values-led culture.
- Benefits: Flexible working, 23 days leave, medical cover, pension contributions, and high street discounts.
- Other info: Part-time options available, with flexibility to work from home occasionally.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on employee engagement and industrial relations during a key business period.
- 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
- 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 one of the non-working days.
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 Northumberland employer: Waddington Brown
Waddington Brown offers a dynamic and supportive work environment for Employee Relations Consultants, particularly in the vibrant city of Norwich. With flexible working arrangements, generous annual leave, and a strong commitment to employee well-being, this values-led organisation fosters professional growth and collaboration within a large, unionised workforce. Join a team where your expertise will directly influence industrial relations strategy and make a meaningful impact during a pivotal time for the business.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Employee Relations Consultant in Northumberland
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who might know someone at the company you're eyeing. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the company culture and values. This will help you align your answers with what they care about, showing them you're not just a fit on paper but also in spirit.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've handled complex employee relations situations. This will demonstrate your expertise and make you memorable.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can reinforce your interest and keep you top of mind. Plus, it shows you're proactive, which is always a plus in HR roles.
We think you need these skills to ace Employee Relations Consultant in Northumberland
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. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
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. Share specific examples of how you've built relationships with trade unions and influenced stakeholders in the past. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As an Employee Relations Consultant, strong communication is key. In your application, demonstrate your ability to convey complex information clearly. Whether it's through your CV or cover letter, let us see your influencing skills in action!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, we love seeing applications come through our platform!
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 not just familiar with the theory, but that you can apply it in a practical setting.
✨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, especially in complex environments.
✨Show Your Strategic Side
This position requires someone who can influence at both operational and strategic levels. Be ready to discuss how you've contributed to shaping industrial relations strategies in previous roles, and how you can bring that experience to the table.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the company's current industrial relations challenges and their goals for the future. This shows that you're genuinely interested in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
