An established organisation operating, service-led environment is looking to appoint an Employee Relations Manager to lead on complex casework, strengthen people practices, and support leaders in managing workforce risk effectively.

This is a specialist role with a strong focus on employee relations, where you’ll act as the subject matter expert on complex people matters. You’ll work closely with senior stakeholders, providing clear, commercially balanced advice while ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

The role

You’ll take ownership of the employee relations agenda, leading on high-risk and sensitive cases while driving consistency and best practice across the organisation. Alongside this, you’ll use insight and data to identify trends, reduce risk, and improve overall employee experience.

You’ll also play a key role in developing management capability and supporting wider organisational initiatives linked to engagement, performance, and culture.

Key responsibilities

• Leading and managing complex employee relations cases, including disciplinary, grievance, capability, and absence matters
• Acting as a trusted advisor to senior leaders on high-risk and sensitive people issues
• Providing clear guidance on employment law, ensuring fair and consistent application of policies and procedures
• Managing risk associated with formal processes, including preparation for legal proceedings and liaison with external advisors
• Supporting organisational change activity, including restructures, workforce transitions, and integration work
• Using data and case trends to identify areas for improvement and reduce recurring issues
• Ensuring accurate and meaningful people data is maintained and used to inform decision-making
• Contributing to reward-related processes and ensuring a fair and consistent approach
• Supporting and mentoring HR team members on employee relations best practice
• Driving continuous improvement in ER processes, frameworks, and ways of working
• Ensuring all employee relations activity aligns with current legislation and internal standards
• Driving impact
• Identifying opportunities to improve engagement, retention, and workplace culture
• Supporting the development of inclusive practices
• Building leadership capability through coaching, training, and practical guidance

What they’re looking for

• Proven experience in a specialist employee relations or senior HR role
• Strong technical knowledge of UK employment law and experience handling complex cases
• Confidence working with senior stakeholders and influencing decision-making
• Experience operating in a regulated or compliance-driven environment
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data and identify trends
• Experience supporting organisational change and managing associated people impacts
• Comfortable leading or mentoring others within an HR function

Why consider this opportunity

This role offers the chance to take ownership of the employee relations landscape within a complex organisation. You’ll have the autonomy to shape approach, influence senior stakeholders, and drive meaningful improvements in how people matters are managed.