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 Kent
Often called the Garden of England due to its spectacular greenery, Kent is a county in the south-east.
Much of Kent is surrounded by water, with coastlines on the North Sea and the English Channel. It shares borders with Sussex, Surrey and Essex. What's more, Kent is a Home County with parts within the London commuter belt, so it's an ideal location for those seeking Head of Employee Relations opportunities.
Throughout its history, Kent has been an important location. During the Middle Ages, the Cathedral at Canterbury became a destination for pilgrims worldwide, after Thomas Becket was murdered there in 1170. Meanwhile, the River Medway had a naval dockyard for around 500 years before it was shut in 1984.
These days, Kent is known for everything from cement and brick making through to shipbuilding, aircraft design and power, while retail, tourism and the service sector are also important.
Just some of the companies based in Kent, or with large facilities, include KEF Metalworking and Kimberly-Clark. Meanwhile, Aylesford is a large paper recycling facility that manufactures newsprint.
In addition, Dover is an important port town, particularly for ferries to the continent, while cruise lines like MSC, Fred Olsen, Holland America, Princess, Royal Caribbean and Saga depart regularly to destinations around the world.
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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