Overview
We are seeking an experienced ER & HR Operations Lead to take ownership of complex employee relations, coach and support managers, and develop a small HR team. This is a hands-on role where you'll manage high-volume ER cases, contribute to policy and process improvements, and help drive cultural change. The position is based near Chobham (4 days on-site) with regular travel across multiple UK sites.
Responsibilities
* Provide expert advice and guidance on employee relations (ER) issues, ensuring alignment with company policies and employment law
* Lead and manage complex disciplinary, grievance, and performance management cases fairly and effectively
* Support managers with PIPs, absence management, flexible working requests, and performance-related issues
* Act as a trusted advisor to business leaders, building strong relationships across the organisation
* Coach, mentor, and develop a small HR team of 2 (early-career and mid-level staff)
* Own, review, and update HR policies, processes, and manager guidance documents for compliance and practicality
* Act as the primary contact for union representatives, fostering positive working relationships and supporting industrial relations activities, including quarterly consultation meetings (e.g., JCC)
* Maintain accurate records of ER cases and prepare reports for senior management, including Employment Tribunal preparation
* Develop and deliver training sessions on ER best practices, employment law, and HR policies
* Ensure compliance with relevant employment legislation and keep policies up to date with legal and regulatory changes
* Support the implementation of company-wide HR initiatives and policies
* Foster a culture of integrity, adaptability, and collaboration within the team
Profile / Qualifications
* CIPD Level 5+ (Level 7 preferred) or equivalent experience
* Strong hands-on experience in employee relations, preferably with some trade union exposure
* Proven people management skills, able to coach, develop, and support direct reports
* Comfortable navigating challenging conversations with employees, managers, and unions
* Highly adaptable, resilient, and team-oriented with strong integrity
* Willing to travel regularly across multiple sites
* Confident in policy creation, process improvement, and building manager capability
Job Offer
* A salary of up to £55,000 + £5K car allowance
* Private medical insurance, dental cover, and a health cash plan
* Bonus eligibility of up to 13% of your annual salary
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