Employee Relations Manager

About the role

Are you an experienced Employee Relations professional ready to make a real impact in a world-leading university? We’re looking for a confident and compassionate ER professional to lead on complex casework, support a culture of resolution and fairness, and help shape the future of employee relations at Imperial. Working at the heart of a collaborative and values-driven people team, you’ll play a key role in fostering a positive, inclusive workplace where people can thrive

What you would be doing

In this pivotal role, you’ll provide expert advice and guidance on a wide range of employee relations matters — from complex casework and investigations to coaching managers through sensitive issues. You’ll manage cases involving grievances, disciplinary action, sickness absence, probation, and performance, ensuring fair outcomes and legal compliance throughout. You’ll also support investigations into research misconduct and, where necessary, represent the university in employment tribunal cases.

Beyond casework, you’ll contribute to shaping policy, delivering training, and driving continuous improvement in how we support and engage our people. As a line manager, you’ll support and develop colleagues in the ER team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing culture.

What we are looking for

• A strong track record of managing complex employee relations casework with professionalism & empathy
• Up-to-date knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practice, particularly in relation to disciplinary, grievance, performance, & sickness absence
• Experience of conducting or supporting fair, thorough investigations — including drafting outcome reports and advising decision-makers
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust and influence at all levels
• A proactive and solutions-focused mindset, with sound judgement and strong analytical skills
• Experience of delivering training and supporting organisational learning in ER-related areas
• The ability to manage and develop team members, fostering a collaborative and supportive working environment
• Chartered CIPD membership (or working towards it) and a genuine commitment to equality, diversity & inclusion

What we can offer you

• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution, supporting our 8,00+strong staff community, and be part of our mission to use science for humanity.
• Benefit from a sector-leading salary & remuneration package (including 39 days’ annual leave and generous pension schemes).
• Access to a range of workplace benefits including a flexible working policy from day one, generous family leave packages, on-site leisure facilities & cycle-to-work scheme.
• Interest-free season ticket loan schemes for travel.
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks & resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing

Further information

This role will sit within the Employee Relations Team within our 100+ People Team. As a People Team, our goal is to attract a diverse community of the highest calibre talent, deliver a sector-leading employee experience, and provide an efficient, effective, and integrated service to all who use our support.

The newly restructured People Team integrates the Talent, Culture, Engagement, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, Progression and Reward teams, underpinned by strategic workforce planning, to deliver a seamless and dedicated service to our Academic faculties and professional services areas. With increased focus and capacity, this structure aims to enhance Imperial's attraction and retention, ensuring we continue to meet the evolving needs of Imperial and the wider community. 

We are looking forward to welcoming passionate and talented individuals who will play a pivotal role in driving our success and shaping the future of the university.

Advert information