Hybrid working, 3 days in the office ( Doncaster) and 2 days at home We’re looking for a proactive and experienced Employee Relations Specialist to join our HR team and play a key role in supporting our people and leaders across the business. In this specialist role, you’ll provide expert guidance on all areas of employee relations, helping to shape a fair, inclusive, and high-performing workplace. You’ll take ownership of complex and high-risk ER casework from start to finish, acting as a trusted advisor to colleagues, line managers, and HR Business Partners. As a subject matter expert in your designated ER specialism, you’ll also support the wider team through coaching and knowledge sharing. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real impact, using your expertise to influence outcomes and drive best practice in line with DFS Group policies and procedures. About DFS Did you know a DFS sofa is in one-third of Britain’s homes? Since 1969, we’ve been creating, marketing, and selling sofas that reflect people’s unique styles and tastes. We’ve always led the market, bringing comfort and great design to communities both online and in person. We’re the UK’s leading sofa retail specialist, but here’s the secret to our success - it’s our people. They’re at the heart of what we do, and together, they’re crafting us towards our ambitious future. What you'll be doing Be a subject matter expert within nominated ER Specialisms, taking additional responsibility for that area and coaching other team members Take full ownership of escalated ER casework from start to finish Key contact for colleagues, line managers and HRBP’s to provi de specialist ER advice in both informal interventions as well as complex, high risk or high profile cases Able to determine priority cases, deciding on the best approach on a case by case basis and in line with DFS Group policies and procedures Able to offer balanced advice, where appropriate working in partnership with internal and external legal team/solicitors to review complex cases and limit/balance risk Lead key ER meetings Support key business change projects Coach and advise line managers (up to and including Directors), developing expertise in managing disciplinary, grievances, capability and performance related issues, through to appeal Work collaboratively with HRBP’s to establish strategies in different business areas to address trends and progress the Group People Plan Proactively identify and implement process improvements Where appropriate lead on settlement discussions and facilitated meetings to drive case resolution Liaise/work with ACAS and both internal and external legal team/solicitors for all employment law claims (including Early Conciliation and tribunals) to provide full support (including witness support prior and during tribunals) to defend claims Support and coach People Advisors within our People Services team to facilitate a growth of knowledge and experience Review, create and update policies and procedures and all associated documentation i.e. guides/letters/forms Develop and deliver training to build knowledge, capability and understanding for managers and provide ad hoc coaching as needed The role is for you if Good t rack record of managing high volumes of ER Cases A true enthusiasm for ER case management A current and in depth understanding of employment law and its practical application Resilience and the ability to cope well under pressure, dealing effectively with conflicting demands Ability to operate in significant ambiguity and advise in ‘grey areas’ of employee relations Key team player and ability to flex priorities to support the team Strong communication and influencing skills with the ability to interact across all levels of management Excellent attention to detail, able to multitask and deal with high volume workload Provide great customer service for our leaders and colleagues across the business Strong analytical skills Able to travel throughout the UK as needed to achieve the responsibilities and accountabilities detailed above Experience / Qualifications: Proven work experience as an ER specialist or relevant role Experience with HR software preferred, but not essential Computer literacy (Google Workplace in particular) Experience reviewing policies and procedures CIPD qualified or relevant experience gained