Head of Industrial Relations

Head of Industrial Relations About Your New Employer

Our client is a leading organisation within the construction, engineering and infrastructure sector.

• Influence employment practices and industrial relations at national level.
• Work closely trade unions, government departments and social partners.
• Join a respected organisation committed to professional advice, constructive engagement and sustainable workforce practices.

About Your New Job

As Head of Industrial Relations & Employment Services, you will lead the organisation's IR and employment services function, implementing its strategic direction and delivering expert support to the organisation.

You will:

• Develop and implement strategies relating to industrial relations, employment law and workforce practices.
• Represent the organisation in national-level negotiations with trade unions and employee representative groups.
• Lead collective bargaining negotiations, pay agreements and sectoral employment matters.
• Manage complex industrial relations disputes, third-party referrals and employee relations cases.
• Represent the organisation at the Workplace Relations Commission and Labour Court.
• Provide leadership with clear, practical guidance on new employment legislation and relevant case law.
• Develop and deliver HR and employment services through guidance materials, digital content and communications.
• Build strong relationships with trade unions, government departments, social partners and employment institutions.
• Represent the organisation on relevant employment, pensions and policy committees.
• Act as a credible and informed spokesperson at committee, board and stakeholder forums.
• Develop proactive employee relations strategies that reduce industrial relations risk and support stability across the sector.
• Lead, coach and mentor a small team of experienced IR and HR professionals.
• The role is based in Dublin, with some travel required. A hybrid and remote working policy is available.

What Skills You Need

• A relevant degree in Human Resources, Industrial Relations, Law, Business or a related discipline.
• At least 10 years' progressive experience in HR and industrial relations, including significant experience in unionised environments.
• Extensive experience managing trade union relationships and leading collective bargaining negotiations.
• A proven record of resolving complex industrial disputes and employee relations matters.
• Strong knowledge of Irish employment law and industrial relations frameworks.
• Experience representing organisations or employees before the Workplace Relations Commission and/or Labour Court.
• Excellent negotiation, influencing and stakeholder management skills.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare detailed submissions and documentation.
• Experience engaging with executive committees and senior or board-level stakeholders.
• A strategic, collaborative and solutions-focused leadership style, with sound judgement and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Experience in construction, engineering, infrastructure or a related sector would be highly desirable.

What's on Offer

• A senior, strategic role with the opportunity to influence industrial relations across a major Irish sector.
• The chance to lead a skilled team and work closely with senior stakeholders, trade unions, government bodies and social partners.
• Significant exposure to national negotiations, employment policy, legislation and complex industrial relations matters.
• A collaborative and professional working environment.
• Ongoing professional development and the opportunity to expand your influence at industry level.
• Dublin-based role with access to hybrid and remote working arrangements.
• Competitive salary and benefits package, commensurate with experience.