Employee Relations Manager

About the Role
National Energy System Operator (NESO) recognises the potential of bright and talented individuals, and we encourage you to join us as Great Britain’s energy system undergoes an ambitious, exciting, and vital transformation. Together with industry, we are creating a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. The Employee Relations Manager will lead and deliver a fair, consistent, and legally compliant employee relations service, partnering with managers and employees to resolve workplace issues, strengthen people practices, and foster a positive, high-performing culture.

You will pay a pivotal role in ensuring effective case management and shaping the long-term ER strategy and fostering positive workplace relations. This is a 6 month fixed term contract. This role can be based in Warwick or Wokingham, and we continue to offer hybrid working from office and home. We are open to full time and part time applicants, as well as flexible working arrangements. Key Accountabilities
Working with the Senior People Leadership team in shaping an overarching ER strategy that aligns with the business goals and promotes a positive employee experience.

Overseeing all employee relations activities, policies and procedures to ensure compliance and effective management of workplace issues. Supporting the review, creation and implementation of People policies and procedures to ensure they are compliant with employment law, are reflective of industry best practice and promote a positive organisational culture. Addressing employee concerns and grievances, conducting investigations and facilitating dispute resolutions. Leading and mentoring the ER Team who are responsible for the day-to-day ER case management activities.

Providing guidance and oversight to the ER Team to ensure timely and effective resolution of cases, including grievances, disciplinary actions, and other employee issues. Ensuring accurate and thorough documentation of all ER cases, providing insights and trends to senior leadership based on case data and outcomes. Providing guidance and coaching to managers on performance management, corrective actions and disciplinary procedures. Training managers and employees on conflict resolution, communication skills, and company policies to enhance workplace relations.

Staying updated on HR trends and regulations to ensure company practices remain current and compliant with relevant labour laws. Building and maintaining a high level of trust and credibility with both internal and external stakeholders. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK by the start of employment. Visa sponsorship may not be available for this role and will be considered in line with business requirements. About You We’re forging the path, and we know we can’t do it alone. That’s why we need visionary minds like yours to join us on this transformative journey.

In this case, we’re looking for someone who has/is: Degree or relevant experience in Human Resources, Employment Law, or a related field (CIPD qualification or equivalent is required). Proven experience in employee relations including extensive experience managing complex ER cases. Experience in developing and implementing ER strategies and frameworks in a fast-paced environment. Solid understanding of UK employment laws and regulations. Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust with employees, managers, and trade union representatives.

Proven ability to manage and influence negotiations, particularly in high-pressure, sensitive scenarios. Ability to balance immediate case management needs with long-term ER strategy development. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, capable of presenting complex information clearly and persuasively. Analytical thinker who can swiftly identify root causes of issues and propose effective, compliant solutions. Strong coaching and mentoring abilities with a collaborative approach to leadership.

What You'll Get A competitive salary of £65,000 - £70,000 dependent on experience and capabilityAs well as your base salary, you will receive a bonus of up to 15% of your salary for stretch performance, 28 days annual leave as standard, and a competitive contributory pension scheme where we will double match your contribution to a maximum company contribution of 12%. NESO's flexible benefits programme provides you with more flexibility around your health, lifestyle and protection benefits, here's just a few available:

• Flexible Bank Holidays & Holiday Trading

About Us At the National Energy System Operator (NESO), we play a vital role in tackling climate change and securing Great Britain's energy future. We already operate the world's fastest decarbonising electricity system and are working towards our ambition to run it carbon-free for a short period this year - provided the market supplies electricity exclusively from renewable sources. Alongside this, we provide expert advice to government on how to deliver a clean power system by 2030. In autumn 2024, the Electricity System Operator (ESO) transitioned to become NESO - an independent, expert public corporation with a whole-system view across electricity, gas, and hydrogen. NESO operates independently and transparently, always acting in the best interests of all energy users. Licensed and regulated by Ofgem, we make impartial decisions that balance sustainability, affordability and security. Our organisation is fully independent from government, the regulator and all commercial interests, with a clear focus on system-wide benefit, long term thing and public value. The time to deliver is now. Join the energy transformation and help shape the future. Your energy. Our future. Together National Energy System Operator (NESO) recognises the potential of bright and talented individuals, and we encourage you to join us as Great Britain’s energy system undergoes an ambitious, exciting, and vital transformation. Together with industry, we are creating a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. More Information This role closes at 23:59, on the day before date shown above, however we encourage candidates to submit their application as early as possible and not wait until the published closing date as this can vary.
Research shows that some people may hesitate to apply unless they meet every single requirement. At NESO, we believe potential comes in many forms and we're committed to a fair, inclusive recruitment We're committed to building a workforce that represents the communities we serve, and a working environment in which each individual feels valued, respected, fairly treated, and able to reach their full potential. If this role sparks your interest but you're not sure you tick every box, we still want to hear from you. process where everyone has the opportunity to show their talents. We celebrate the difference people can bring into our organisation, and welcome and encourage applicants with diverse experiences and backgrounds.