Head of Industrial Relations (Strategic SME)
Location: London (Hybrid - 2 days per week onsite) Type: Permanent Salary: Up to £120,000 + comprehensive benefits package We are excited to be engaged exclusively on the search for a highly experienced Industrial Relations & Policy specialist to take ownership of all aspects of collective engagement, workforce policy and employee relations strategy for one of our highly regulated clients based in London.
This is a high-impact individual contributor role, ideal for a senior specialist who thrives in navigating complex organisational dynamics, regulatory requirements and trade union relationships. You will be instrumental in developing and embedding a forward-thinking IR strategy across a complex, multi-site environment. Key responsibilities will include:
- Act as the strategic lead for Industrial Relations, building and maintaining effective partnerships with Trade Unions and employee representatives
- Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, bridging the gap between executive decision-making and HR delivery
- Lead collective consultations on pay, terms and conditions, and organisational change
- Provide expert guidance on collectively bargained agreements, operational practices, and workforce strategy
- Review and modernise workplace policies to ensure they are legally compliant, consistent, and aligned to organisational goals
- Manage complex dispute resolution
The successful candidate will have:
- Proven track record in a dedicated Industrial Relations or senior HR Policy role
- Strong experience within multi-union environments, including leading collective bargaining processes
- CIPD qualification (or equivalent experience in HR, IR, or Employment Law)
- Demonstrable experience implementing complex people policies across large, multi-site organisations
- Exceptional communication and influencing skills, with confidence engaging at Executive level
- Comfortable operating as a standalone subject matter expert, balancing strategic oversight with operational delivery
- Calm, analytical, and solutions-focused
