HRBP Employee Relations

V etPartners is keen to recruit an experienced Employee Relations Specialist on a 6 month Fixed Term basis, to support the Operational HR manager in providing support to the business across selected practices.

We seek a person to provide our managers with complex employment relations advice and support, to improve the operation of the Business while supporting their decision making to maintain standards and integrity.

Key Responsibilities

• Employee Relations & Complex Case Management: Provide expert guidance on all aspects of employee relations, with a strong focus on managing complex and sensitive cases, including performance management, disciplinary and grievance procedures, restructures and conflict resolution. Proactively handle high risk cases, ensuring compliance with employment legislation and mitigating potential risks to the business. Experience in working with trade unions, including negotiation and consultation processes, would be advantageous.
• Strategic HR Partnership: Work closely with line managers to understand the unique HR needs of each business area, identifying service requirements and supporting business change efforts. Lead and facilitate change management initiatives and business improvement activities in alignment with strategic objectives.
• HR Policy Implementation & Compliance: Ensure a thorough understanding and effective application of key HR policies and processes within designated business areas, TUPE, wellbeing and employment law compliance. Provide expert advice to managers and employees on the interpretation and application of policies.
• HR Operations & Reporting: Maintain accurate and up to date records of all HR activities, ensuring timely reporting and tracking of employee relations cases and other key HR metrics. Provide data driven insights to support decision making and drive continuous improvement.
• Leadership Development & Training: Facilitate HR related workshops to enhance the capability of line managers and employees, ensuring they are equipped to manage HR responsibilities effectively, with a particular emphasis on employee relations and conflict resolution.
• HR Calendar Management: Take the lead in ensuring timely execution of HR calendar activities, such as performance appraisals and mid year reviews, providing guidance and support throughout the process.
• Collaboration & Cultural Alignment: Work collaboratively within the HR team and across the wider business, demonstrating a proactive and supportive approach that aligns with company culture and values. Engage with union representatives to foster positive working relationships and collaborative problem solving.
• Additional Responsibilities: Carry out any other duties as reasonably required to support the HR function and business objectives.

What We're Looking For

• Extensive experience in employee relations, with a proven track record in managing complex and sensitive ER cases, including disciplinaries, grievances, restructures and conflict resolution.
• Up to date knowledge of employment law, HR policies and best practices.
• Proven ability to lead and contribute to HR and business projects effectively.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build strong relationships at all levels of the business.
• Outstanding communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Exceptional organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Experience in working with trade unions; consultation, negotiations and dispute resolution would be advantageous.
• Strong commercial acumen and a pragmatic approach to HR challenges.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and HR systems.
• A CIPD qualification (or working towards one) would be advantageous.

Location

• Primarily York with the option of some hybrid working.

What We Can Offer

• Competitive Salary £45,000-£50,000 per annum (Pro Rata for FTC)
• Westfield Health - a health cash plan with discounts at supermarkets and other retailers.
• Pro Rata of 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
• Buy & Sell holiday.

Hours

37.5 hours per week. 25 days holiday plus Bank Holidays - with the opportunity to buy a further 10 or sell 5 days' holiday, allowing flexibility for longer adventures. Westfield Health - savings on selected treatments and with selected retailers. Enhanced maternity/paternity pay.