Employee Relations Business Partner

BUSINESS FUNCTION:People
GRADE:ML2/SB2
SALARY:per annum
ROLE TYPE:Hybrid
HOURS:37 per week

Are you ready to make a real impact in the world of Employee Relations

At Northern were on an exciting journey of modernisation and transformation all while nurturing a culture of collaboration and strong employee connections.

Were looking for a skilled and forwardthinking Employee Relations Manager to work alongside our Head of Employee Relations driving both daytoday operations and transformative initiatives.

This is your chance to influence ER strategy champion positive industrial relations and play a pivotal role in the evolution of our workforce.

What youll be doing:

• Provide expert advice and support to senior leaders in negotiations collective agreements and in resolving employee/industrial relations issues across the business.
• Act as a key link in maintaining satisfactory employee relations across the business that ensures Northern can deliver in transformational business plan.
• Work with the wider People team and business leaders to mitigate conflict and foster good relations between Northern its colleagues and trade unions.
• Proactively support the People Leadership team in removing blockers to change and responding positively to matters arising through the industrial relations arena.
• Support discussions on restructuring productivity and harmonisation across all grades.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with trade unions ensuring adherence to collective bargaining procedures.
• Develop and implement dispute resolution strategies.

About You:

• Proven experience in Employee Relations management with a strong understanding of ER strategy and industrial relations.
• Ability to navigate and manage both daytoday ER issues and transformational change initiatives.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills with the ability to build positive relationships across all levels.
• Strong problemsolving skills and the ability to handle complex sensitive situations with discretion and professionalism.
• A collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively within a dynamic fastpaced team environment.

Whats in it for you

At Northern we dont just value our peoplewe go the extra mile to support them. Heres a taste of what you can look forward to:

• Free Travel: Unlimited free travel for you your partner and your dependents on Northern services. Plus 75 discount on other networks in the UK and Europe.
• Generous Pension Scheme: We top up your contributions by 1.5 times.
• Enhanced Family Benefits: We offer 9 months of full pay for maternity leave and 2 weeks for paternity leave.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Save up to 42 on a bike and spread the cost.
• Exclusive Discounts: From shopping to wellbeing Northern Perks has you covered.
• Holiday Purchase Scheme: Buy up to 5 extra days of annual leave.
• Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 support for family lifestyle and more.

Why Northern

Were more than just a train operator. Were the heartbeat of the North connecting communities creating opportunities and driving sustainable growth. With 2500 trains running daily were on a mission to improve rail travel and enhance the customer experience while protecting the environment.

Back in 1825 the first passenger train set off in the North of England after which rail quickly spread across the globe and this year were celebrating 200 years of the modern railway. As we look back on the historic events that led us here we also look towards the future as we move into the era of Great British Rail. Join us at this pivotal moment in rail history and play your part in our journey.

Building an inclusive work environment

Were actively building diverse teams and we welcome applications from everyone. If you have a disability we can make reasonable adjustments to our recruitment process according to your needs. Were also part of the Disability Confident scheme meaning well always offer an interview to disabled candidates who apply through the scheme if you meet the minimum criteria for a job.

Please note that Northern reserves the right to close recruitment for this role before the published closing date if high volumes of applications are received.