HR Generalist (Employee Relations Focused)
We are seeking a highly experienced Employee Relations Advisor to join our HR team and provide expert guidance on complex employee relations matters across multiple sites. The ideal candidate will bring a minimum of 5 years' dedicated experience in employee relations, hold a CIPD Level 5 qualification, and have proven ability to manage ER issues in a multi-site environment. Experience within the higher education sector is a plus but not essential.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide expert advice and support on a wide range of ER issues including disciplinary, grievance, performance management, absence management, and conduct issues.
* Partner with managers and HR colleagues to ensure consistency and compliance with employment law, company policy, and best practice.
* Lead and manage complex ER casework from investigation to resolution, ensuring timely and fair outcomes.
* Coach and develop line managers in handling ER matters, equipping them to manage employee issues confidently and effectively.
* Support in the development and review of ER policies, procedures, and toolkits.
* Ensure documentation, case notes, and records are accurately maintained in line with data protection and legal requirements.
* Collaborate with legal advisors, trade unions, and external stakeholders as required.
* Contribute to organisational change initiatives such as restructures, TUPE transfers, and redundancy processes.
* Use HR data to identify ER trends and provide insights to support proactive solutions and continuous improvement.
* Work flexibly across multiple sites, adapting to the needs of different teams and departments.
Person Specification
* Minimum of 5 years' experience working solely in employee relations, managing a broad range of complex ER cases.
* CIPD Level 5 qualification or equivalent.
* Demonstrable multi-site experience, with the ability to balance competing demands and priorities.
* Strong understanding of UK employment law and its practical application.
* Excellent communication, influencing, and negotiation skills.
* Confident in coaching and supporting managers in all aspects of ER.
* Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
* Ability to manage sensitive situations with discretion and professionalism.
* Experience working within the higher education sector.
* Familiarity with HRIS systems and data reporting tools.
* Exposure to organisational change projects, including restructures and redundancy processes.
This role will require UK Travel to our other campus' when applicable
What We Offer
* Company pension
* Free On-site parking
* 28 days annual leave (8 UK Bank Holidays)
Please note, we are not in the position to offer sponsorships!
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Human Resources
Industries
Higher Education
Manchester, England, United Kingdom
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