Head of IR

We are currently working in partnership with a large public sector organisation, who are recruiting for a IR Lead on a 6 months interim contract.

This is a hybrid role, but mainly home based, and is paying £750 via an umbrella company.

The ideal candidates will have strong expertise in collective industrial relations and experience working with senior stakeholders across complex organisations. They must have up-to-date knowledge of employment law, excellent consultation skills, and the ability to develop pragmatic industrial relations strategies.

Duties will include (but are not limited to):

• Lead on industrial relations strategy, policy implementation, and organisational change
• Act as the primary link with trade unions, coordinating consultations and negotiations
• Establish and manage IR forums and run bi-annual meetings with senior officials and union reps
• Provide expert advice to senior leaders and ER teams on complex IR matters
• Oversee day-to-day IR activity across key operational departments

What they’re looking for:

• Extensive senior-level experience in industrial relations
• Strong working knowledge of UK employment law, collective bargaining, and union engagement
• Proven ability to manage complex negotiations and build effective stakeholder relationships
• Experience leading IR forums and supporting policy and communications work

Working hours:

• Full-time, Monday to Friday

James Andrews is acting as an employment agency and business in relation to this role.

At James Andrews Recruitment Solutions we try to respond to all applications personally, however, due to the high volume of applications this is not always possible. If you have not heard back from us within 72 hours, please assume that your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.

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