Industrial Relations Partner

This is a brand new role reporting into HR with the opportunity to be a subject matter expert in the business, write the strategy, advise the business on Industrial Relations and build strong relationships with Unite.· Managing Industrial Relations: Develop and maintain positive relationships with trade unions, leading negotiations to secure collective agreements that align with the business goals.

· Compliance with Employment Legislation: Ensure full compliance with UK employment laws and education sector-specific regulations, keeping policies up to date and legally sound.

· Supporting Senior Leadership: Provide expert industrial relations advice to senior leaders, delivering reports on risks, trends, and strategic opportunities in employee relations.

· Policy Development and Implementation: Design and implement industrial relations policies, ensuring consistent application and effective communication across the organisation.

· Employee Engagement and Communication: Promote open communication channels between staff, management, and union representatives to foster engagement and transparency.

· Conflict Resolution and Dispute Management: Mediate and resolve workplace disputes promptly, minimising disruption and ensuring fair outcomes for all parties involved.

· Health and Safety in the Workplace: Collaborate with health and safety teams to ensure compliance with legal standards and address industrial relations issues related to working conditions.

· Handover & Operational Transition: Lead the smooth handover of completed projects to Regional Property Managers and Operations Teams, ensuring the transfer of all statutory certifications, operating manuals, and completion of site inductions.

Training and Development: Deliver training to managers on industrial relations, conflict resolution, and legal compliance, supporting workforce development