Employee Relations and Advisory Team Lead

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Employee Relations and Advisory Team Lead to shape a high‑performing Employee Relations function within a complex, multi‑site organisation. This strategic leadership position will establish a Centre of Expertise, provide expert guidance on complex people matters, and ensure consistency, compliance and continuous improvement across the business.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, coach and develop a team of Employee Relations and People Advisors, fostering a collaborative, customer‑focused culture.
• Establish and embed an Employee Relations Centre of Expertise to deliver consistent, high‑quality advice.
• Act as senior escalation point for complex, high‑risk and sensitive employee relations cases.
• Provide expert counsel on disciplinary, grievance, capability, organisational change, restructuring, redundancy and senior employee matters.
• Develop and maintain policies, frameworks, guidance and manager toolkits to ensure legislative compliance.
• Build strong partnerships with senior stakeholders, People Partners, legal advisers and recognised trade unions.
• Lead organisational change initiatives, including restructures, collective consultation and redundancy programmes.
• Oversee Employment Tribunal preparation in collaboration with external legal advisers.
• Use people data and reporting to identify trends and support organisational improvement.
• Manage external supplier relationships such as employment law providers and occupational health services.

Required profile

• Significant experience leading Employee Relations in a large, multi‑site environment.
• Proven people‑leadership ability with a track record of coaching and developing teams.
• Strong stakeholder management skills, including work with senior leaders and trade unions.
• Deep knowledge of UK employment legislation and best practice.
• Ability to influence people strategy and support organisational change.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive salary range of £60,000‑£70,000 per annum.
• Hybrid working model with regular site visits as required.
• Opportunity to lead a strategic function within a reputable recruitment firm.
• Professional development and career progression support.