Employee Relations Advisor / HR Business Partner (ER) – 6‑Month Contract

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Employee Relations Advisor / HR Business Partner to join our client in Ashford on a six‑month contract. The role will be the primary point of contact for employee relations matters, union liaison and manager coaching, with the opportunity to shape the ER function.

Key responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of employee relations issues including disciplinaries, grievances and absence management from initial contact to resolution.
• Serve as the main liaison with trade union representatives, maintaining constructive relationships.
• Coach and up‑skill managers on employment law and best practices in employee relations.
• Design and deliver employee relations training programmes across the business.
• Support the development and implementation of HR policies.
• Partner with senior stakeholders to provide people solutions aligned with business objectives.

Required profile

• CIPD Level 5 qualification (essential).
• Solid HR generalist background with a focus on employee relations.
• Hands‑on experience working directly with trade unions.
• Strong knowledge of UK employment law.
• Proven ability to influence and operate at senior level.
• Availability to work four days per week on‑site in Ashford for the contract duration.

Required skills

• Employee relations case management.
• Union liaison and negotiation.
• Employment law advisory.
• Manager coaching and training delivery.

What we offer

• Competitive salary of £60,000 per year.
• Six‑month fixed‑term contract with a strong likelihood of extension.
• Opportunity to influence the ER strategy within a growing organisation.
• Supportive and inclusive recruitment process.