Head of Employee Relations Jobs
As companies get larger, the workforce can become a powerful group. Industrial disputes are a reality of running a company, and managed badly they can reduce productivity, worry investors and hand advantages to competitors. That’s why many companies employ a head of employee relations. This role has the task of liaising with the workforce’s representatives, be they employees, shop stewards or third party union reps, to ensure relations between them and the senior management are optimal to the success and productivity of the company.
The head of employee relations is called upon to settle grievances and deal with disciplinary proceedings in a way that is seen to be fair, balanced and consistent. There are also health and safety considerations to contend with, and other aspects of employment law that affect the sector. Depending on the size of the company and the complexity of the employment picture, the head may also be asked to create a team of employee relations staff who oversee certain areas of the business.
The skills required
The overriding skill for this job is a demonstrable ability to deal with the reasonable demands of employees in a way that keeps them satisfied while maintaining maximum profitability and stability for the company. This can be a tough job, although expectations can be managed by ensuring employees’ rights and the company’s expectations of them are communicated to them at the contract stage.
Experience of dealing with unions is a bonus that will stand you in good stead in certain industries. An ability to foster relationships where employees can recognize the benefits of a harmonious atmosphere will be a valuable asset in the role. Avoiding disputes by constant communication with employees and/or their representatives and the board, plus any HR managers and directors, is key, so a CV that shows you have maintained good relations between employees and management will be useful.
Head of Employee Relations Jobs in Berkshire
A ceremonial and historic county in England, Berkshire is often called the Royal County of Berkshire, due to it being the location of Windsor Castle. It shares a border with Oxfordshire, Surrey, Buckinghamshire, Hampshire and Wiltshire and is counted among the Home Counties. It's also an excellent location for those seeking Head of Employee Relations vacancies.
Berkshire is one of the oldest counties in England, with a history going back to at least the middle of the eighth century.
Eton College was established in the 15th century and is one of the most renowned public schools in England. It has educated 19 prime ministers, as well as notable scientists, authors and members of the royal family.
In 1810, the Kennet and Avon canal opened, making it possible to travel by boat from Reading to the Bristol Channel. The building of the railways also helped to further establish Berkshire as an important part of the British economy.
During the Industrial Revolution, the region was known for its large iron works, as well as brewing.
Today, Berkshire is home to a number of big businesses in sectors including confectionary, communications, technology, energy and pharmaceuticals.
Just some of the companies that can be found in the region include Amazon.co.uk, Honda, Panasonic, Siemens, Sun Microsystems, Vodafone, Bayer, LG and Microsoft. There's also a Waitrose distribution centre and the headquarters of NTS Express Road Haulage.
What's more, Slough Trading Estate is one of the largest in Europe, boasting more than 400 companies including Mars, Fiat, Telefonica O2, Ferrari, Fullers Logistics and Black & Decker.
Popular locations
Find Head of Employee Relations Jobs with Cast UK
In a changing business landscape, it’s more vital than ever to have employees working with management to maintain profitability, and that’s why many companies are looking to hire specialist employee relationship managers. If you have experience that you could bring to this role, call Cast UK today on 0333 121 3345.
Cast UK is a recruitment consultancy that deals solely with management and executive level posts. We build relationships with companies so clients know they can rely on us to find them the best candidates for their management roles. In turn, we point candidates to the companies that are searching for people to fill their management vacancies. It’s a win-win situation, and employee relations specialists know what that feels like.
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