Head of Industrial Relations and Policy

Head of Industrial Relations and Policy

Farringdon Personal Contract

Full-time Hybrid

Joint-contribution pension from 6% (12% total) - Bonus Scheme - Car Allowance - Private Healthcare - Enhanced maternity & family leave - Life assurance - HolidayPlus - Virtual GP & Employee Assistance Programme plus retail and leisure discounts & many more.

REQ5653

SGN is seeking an Industrial Relations & Policy expert to act as our professional authority in all matters regarding collective bargaining and workforce policy. This is a high-impact, individual contributor role designed for a leader who can balance the delicate intersection of organisational strategy, legal compliance, and constructive Union partnerships.

You will be the central point of our IR strategy, ensuring that SGN remains a modern, effective, and compliant employer while maintaining the operational continuity of our safety-critical services.

We deliver safety, warmth, and comfort to homes and businesses. Every role, whether in the office or on the front line, plays a key part in this mission.

• Provide strategic IR leadership by building and sustaining professional partnerships with Trade Unions and staff representatives, you will be the vital link between ExCo members and HR People Partners to mitigate risk and resolve issues before they escalte.
• Lead consultations on pay, terms and conditions and organisational change. You will establish negotiation mandates, develop costed options and manage risk assessments in collaboration with Senior People Leadership.
• You will advise the business on collectively bargained T&Cs and working practices. You will own the annual IR calendar, leading formal meetings at a national and local level and policy forums and ensure seamless delivery.
• Review and modernise SGN's Policies to ensure they are legally compliant, consistent and aligned with our broader organisational strategy and governance frameworks.
• Manage the resolution of complex disputes, and conduct horizon scanning to identify legislative, sector and union related developments.

What you will need

• Proven experience in a dedicated IR or senior HR Policy role (5+ years ideal).
• CIPD qualification or equivalent experience in HR, IR or Employment Law.
• Extensive experience managing multi-union environments and leading on collective bargaining processes.
• You are solution driven and have a good track record of reaching agreements through ambiguous situations.
• Deep knowledge of ACAS processes, dispute resolution frameworks and employment legislation.
• Proven track record of implementing complex People Policies in large, multi-site organisations across the UK.
• You have keen financial acumen and confident costing negotiation options.
• You have excellent communication skills, bringing influence and experience briefing high-risk scenarios at Exec level.
• You are comfortable working as a standalone SME, remaining calm under pressure and analytical when balancing strategic and tactical work.

Not sure you meet every requirement?

Research shows some people - particularly women and those from underrepresented backgrounds - may hesitate to apply unless they meet every criteria. At SGN, we value diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.

If this role interests you but you're not sure you tick every box, we'd still love to hear from you. You might be just who we're looking for - now or in the future.

If you require any accommodations or support during the application process, reach out to us. We're here to help ensure an inclusive and accessible experience for everyone.