Employee Relations Manager

4729079
  • Job type

    Permanent
  • Location

    Oxford
  • Working Pattern

    Full-time
  • Specialism

    Hr Management
  • Industry

    Government & Public Services
  • Pay

    £70,000-£75,000 + Pension

Employee Relations Manager opportunity with a large organisation in Oxfordshire

Your New Company
Join a leading public sector organisation committed to delivering excellent services across the Thames Valley. As part of the HR & Cultural Change team, you will contribute to shaping and leading the strategic people and culture initiatives that drive transformation across the organisation. This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a forward-thinking business that places a strong emphasis on innovation, collaboration, and creating an inclusive and high-performing culture.

Your New Role
As an Employee Relations Manager, you will lead a dynamic team of 15 HR professionals and work closely with senior leaders to drive the People and Culture Strategy and deliver organisational transformation. You will play a key role in business planning, continuously improving processes, and ensuring that employee relations remain strong, fair, and transparent across the council. You will be responsible for leading and managing complex industrial relation matters, negotiating with trade unions, and providing expert advice on HR policies and employment-related issues. In addition, you will collaborate with the HR Senior Management team to ensure effective people strategies that support the delivery of excellent HR services.

What You'll Need to Succeed
To excel in this role, you will need a proven track record in leading and managing HR teams, particularly in the areas of employee relations, industrial relations, HR policy development, and organisational change. Your experience should include working with Trade Unions in a politically sensitive environment and supporting large-scale business transformations. You should possess excellent communication skills, the ability to influence senior stakeholders, and a deep understanding of HR regulations and best practices. Additionally, you should be an innovative leader, capable of driving cultural change and engaging teams to deliver results. Key competencies include:
  • Extensive experience in leading employee relations and industrial relations strategies
  • Proven ability to drive business transformation while ensuring compliance with legal frameworks
  • Expertise in managing HR policy and working in partnership with Trade Unions
  • Ability to provide leadership in equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI)
  • Strong commercial acumen and financial management skills
  • Experience in mentoring, developing, and managing a diverse team of HR professionals
  • Ability to work in a complex and diverse environment, navigating political and organisational challenges.

  • What You'll Get in Return
In return, you will be part of a supportive and inclusive leadership team, shaping the future of HR operations and making a significant impact on the lives of the residents of Oxfordshire. You will have the opportunity to work on innovative and impactful people initiatives and be at the forefront of transformational change within the council. The role also offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including:
  • Flexible working options as part of the Agile Working Policy
  • Opportunity for professional development and continuous learning
  • Support to shape the People and Culture Strategy and develop your career as an organisational leader
  • A collaborative and inclusive work environment that values innovation and creativity
  • A chance to make a tangible impact on organisational performance and employee engagement.

This is a role for someone with a passion for shaping and leading people strategies in a dynamic and evolving environment. If you are ready to step into a leadership role that influences key people priorities and drives organisational success, we would love to hear from you.


If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.

If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

Apply for this job

Talk to Charlotte Chandler, the specialist consultant managing this position

Located in Reading, 6th Floor, The Blade, Abbey SquareTelephone 01865248713
Click here to access our Privacy Policy, which provides detailed information on how we use and protect your personal information, and your rights in relation to this.

RELATED COURSE

Build your career with the skills employers need.