ER Specialist

Employee Relations Specialist
Hybrid Working :
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced Employee Relations (ER) Specialist or Advisor to manage a high volume of complex and high-risk ER cases end-to-end. This role requires a proactive professional with deep knowledge of UK employment law and best-practice HR policies, capable of delivering impartial and sensitive workplace investigations while supporting senior stakeholders with expert guidance.
Key Responsibilities

• Manage complex ER cases, including disciplinary, grievance, whistleblowing, and performance issues, from initiation to resolution.
• Conduct thorough and impartial workplace investigations, ensuring compliance with legal and organisational standards.
• Advise and coach senior managers on ER matters, risk mitigation, and policy application.
• Maintain confidentiality and integrity when handling sensitive information.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of ER policies and training materials.
• Support collective consultation processes in unionised environments where applicable.
• Apply a pragmatic, commercially focused approach to ER, balancing legal compliance with business objectives and employee engagement.

Essential Criteria

• Significant experience as an ER Specialist or Advisor within a fast-paced or large organisation.
• Deep knowledge of UK employment law, ACAS codes of practice, and HR best practices.
• Proven ability to manage complex investigations and provide expert ER advice.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and influencing skills.
• CIPD qualified (Level 5 minimum; Level 7 desirable) or equivalent experience.

Desirable Criteria

• Experience in a heavily unionised environment and managing collective consultations.
• Accredited mediation skills or experience in formal workplace mediation.
• Experience in policy development and ER training delivery.