Employee Relations Manager

About This Role

This pivotal role within the Employee Relations team is responsible for developing and delivering a comprehensive approach to employee relations across the Force. The manager provides expert advice on all employee relations matters, acts as a key negotiator with Trade Unions, Police Federation, and Staff Associations, and is critical to ensuring increased business performance, employee engagement, and legal compliance. The role also involves policy development, implementation, and embedding, as well as comprehensive management of legal cases and advice on Force-wide organizational change.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert guidance to managers on employee relations matters, ensuring decisions align with employment legislation, Force policies, and procedures
• Support the management of complex employee relations cases, including disciplinary, grievance, attendance, and other workplace matters
• Develop, review, and implement employee relations policies, procedures, and practices to promote consistency, fairness, and legal compliance
• Build effective relationships with senior leaders, managers, Trade Union representatives, and other stakeholders, using negotiation and influencing skills to achieve positive outcomes
• Develop and implement employee relations interventions that strengthen management capability, improve employee engagement, and support workforce retention and productivity

Important Details

• Schedule: Monday to Friday, 08:00 - 16:00, Hybrid
• Application deadline: 29/10/2026, 23:59

Application Process

• Complete an online application form, which will be reviewed against the skills, experience, and behaviors required for the role
• Attend an interview and/or assessment if you successfully pass the application stage
• Successfully complete relevant pre-employment checks if selected as the preferred candidate. Checks may include:
  • Vetting Checks: Successfully complete the required level of Management Vetting and Counter Terrorism Clearance, which may include providing information relating to your background and financial history
  • Medical Checks: Successfully complete medical checks, which may include a drugs test, and where required, a fitness assessment and hearing test
  • Reference Checks: Provide details covering at least five years of employment, education, or other relevant activity history

About the Company

The Employee Relations team supports West Midlands Police in fostering a fair, inclusive, and productive working environment. The department provides expert guidance on employee relation matters, ensuring compliance with employment legislation, organizational policies, and procedures, while supporting the wellbeing, engagement, and retention of the Force's workforce.