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 Huddersfield
Located in West Yorkshire in the metropolitan borough of Kirklees, Huddersfield is a large town that sits approximately halfway between Leeds and Manchester.
Since Saxon times, Huddersfield has been a market town and it has also long been known for its manufacturing capabilities. Textiles and woven items were some of the town's main produce for hundreds of years, while agricultural goods and milling were also vital for its economy through to the 18th century.
Huddersfield was a major player during the Industrial Revolution and its success during this time can still be seen in the beautiful Victorian architecture dotted around the town - particularly the Grade I listed railway station.
These days, Huddersfield is still largely a manufacturing town with lots of opportunity for those seeking Head of Employee Relations positions. The region is home to various large-scale textile companies like C & J Antich and Huddersfield Fine Worsteds. The latter supplies to top-name fashion houses like Prada, Armani, Givenchy and Chanel.
Of course, the region's scope for production has been broadened and other companies are mainly based in the chemicals and engineering markets. Cummins Turbo Technologies manufactures turbochargers, while Syngenta AG is known for crop protection chemicals. There's also Trojan Plastics, which produces stylish baths.
In addition, Poundstretcher operates its headquarters in nearby Deighton and Andrew Jones Pies is in Huddersfield.
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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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