Job overview
Employee Relations Manager
*PREVIOUS APPLICANTS NEED NOT APPLY*
How would you approach a complex workplace issue or resolve a challenging employee relations case?
If you’ve already got an answer in mind - you might be just who we’re looking for.
We're looking for expert Employee Relations Manager to join our friendly team. At Croydon Health Services, relationships matter here, colleagues are valued, and there is a real sense of teamwork. Every day brings new challenges, but together we find solutions, learn from each other and have fun along the way.
In this role, you’ll take the lead on a varied and often complex caseload, offering expert advice and practical solutions to support early resolution of workplace matters. You’ll be confident in applying employment legislation, case law, and best practice — as well as local policies, to deliver high-quality, person-centred guidance.
We're looking for someone who is passionate about supporting managers, navigating complex people issues, and making a real difference to the colleague experience. It could also be an excellent developmental opportunity for a strong Senior ER Advisor ready to take the next step into management.
Does this sound like you?
Interview Date - TBC
Main duties of the job
As our Employee Relations Manager, you’ll be a trusted advisor, ensuring fair and effective ER practices across the Trust.
Your key responsibilities will include:
- Leading, supporting, and developing the ER team to ensure timely, fair, and consistent case management in line with best practice and employment legislation.
- Providing expert advice on complex and sensitive ER cases, supporting early resolution and maintaining constructive relationships with trade union partners.
- Coaching and empowering managers to manage people matters confidently and in line with Trust values and policies.
- Supporting the delivery of key workforce objectives, including reducing case timelines and improving ER performance metrics.
- Contributing to the development of policies, procedures, and training materials that promote good people management practices.
We’re seeking someone who brings:
- Substantial experience in employee relations, including managing high-risk and complex cases.
- A confident, solutions-focused approach to working with senior leaders, managers, HR colleagues, and trade unions.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to build trust and credibility quickly.
- A passion for coaching and developing others, with a commitment to continuous improvement.
- Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
***Please see the attached supporting document which contains more information about the role in the job description and person specification***
Person specification
Experience
Essential
- Extensive experience of providing expert advice on Employee Relations in large complex unionised organisations
- Experience in the development and delivery of employee relations training.
- Experience of managing teams
- Experience of managing highly complex investigations
- Experience of policy development and implementation
- Proven ability to improve service delivery through innovative solutions and process optimisation
Desirable
- NHS experience
Qualifications
Essential
- Educated to Degree Level
- CIPD qualified and registered
Desirable
- PG Certificate in Employment Law
Knowledge and Skills
Essential
- Knowledge of ER best practice.
- Ability to gain the confidence of and influence people at all levels and in situations where hostility or resistance may be encountered.
- Good IT skills including word/excel/PowerPoint.
- Thorough knowledge of employment law and its application in Employee Relations
- Excellent written and communication skills- able to communicate with a wide range of people on complex issues
- Familiar with HR systems and producing reports
Desirable
- Skilled ESR user
- Trained job matcher
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Applying for this NHS job
This advert is for Employee Relations Manager with Croydon Health Services NHS Trust in Thornton Heath, London, England. It is listed as a Band 7 Manager and corporate role. The advertised salary is £55,524 - £62,652 pa inc HCAS (pro rata). The contract type is Fixed term: 2 years (FTC). The application deadline is 05 Aug 2026.
Before you apply, compare the job description with the person specification and mirror the employer's essential criteria in your supporting information. Use the vacancy title, employer, location, salary, contract type, closing date and posted date (27 Jul 2026) to decide whether this role fits your current NHS job search. If the employer can close applications early, prepare the application before the stated deadline rather than waiting for the final day.
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