Employee relations specialist

Job Title: Employee Relations Advisor

Location: Exeter, UK

Duration: 6-Month Contract

Are you an experienced Employee Relations professional with a passion for delivering high-quality people solutions and managing complex employee relations cases? We are seeking an Employee Relations Advisor to join a dynamic People team and play a key role in supporting business performance, driving best-practice ER processes, and enhancing the employee experience.

About the Role

As the Employee Relations Advisor, you will act as a trusted ER specialist, leading on complex case management, advising stakeholders at all levels, and ensuring the delivery of a proactive and high-quality Employee Relations service. You will use your expertise in employment law, employee relations, and stakeholder management to support managers, improve processes, and drive continuous improvement across the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage complex Employee Relations cases, ensuring compliance with employment legislation and best practice.
• Provide expert guidance and support on disciplinary, grievance, absence management, performance, and other ER matters.
• Support escalated and high-risk cases, including Employment Tribunal preparation and management.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of employment law, HR policies, and industry best practices.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders across the business, including senior leaders, external providers, and Trade Union representatives.
• Coach and develop Line Managers to enhance people management capability.
• Manage and contribute to people-related projects and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Analyse people data and metrics to identify trends and support informed decision-making.
• Champion innovative approaches and contribute to creating a positive employee experience.

Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in Employee Relations within a complex organisational environment.
• Strong knowledge of UK employment law and Employee Relations best practices.
• Experience handling complex and high-volume ER casework independently.
• Ability to build credibility and influence stakeholders at all levels, including senior leadership.
• Strong coaching, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Experience working with Trade Unions and external people-related service providers is desirable.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and relationship-building skills.
• CIPD qualification or equivalent HR qualification preferred.

What We're Looking For

• A proactive and solutions-focused ER professional.
• Someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and can manage multiple priorities.
• A collaborative individual committed to delivering exceptional employee experiences and driving continuous improvement.