Employee Relations Specialist - Interim Contract - 6-9 months
Hybrid Working :
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced Employee Relations (ER) Specialist or Advisor to manage a high volume of complex and high-risk ER cases end-to-end. This role requires a proactive professional with deep knowledge of UK employment law and best-practice HR policies, capable of delivering impartial and sensitive workplace investigations while supporting senior stakeholders with expert guidance.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage complex ER cases, including disciplinary, grievance, whistleblowing, and performance issues, from initiation to resolution.
* Conduct thorough and impartial workplace investigations, ensuring compliance with legal and organisational standards.
* Advise and coach senior managers on ER matters, risk mitigation, and policy application.
* Maintain confidentiality and integrity when handling sensitive information.
* Contribute to the development and implementation of ER policies and training materials.
* Support collective consultation processes in unionised environments where applicable.
* Apply a pragmatic, commercially focused approach to ER, balancing legal compliance with business objectives and employee engagement.
Essential Criteria
* Significant experience as an ER Specialist or Advisor within a fast-paced or large organisation.
* Deep knowledge of UK employment law, ACAS codes of practice, and HR best practices.
* Proven ability to manage complex investigations and provide expert ER advice.
* Strong communication, negotiation, and influencing skills.
* CIPD qualified (Level 5 minimum; Level 7 desirable) or equivalent experience.
Desirable Criteria
* Experience in a heavily unionised environment and managing collective consultations.
* Accredited mediation skills or experience in formal workplace mediation.
* Experience in policy development and ER training delivery.