Group Head of Employee Relations

Are you a seasoned HR professional with a passion for creating a positive, inclusive workplace and driving organisational change? Do you have the leadership skills to shape and implement HR strategies that enhance employee engagement and organisational success? We are looking for a dynamic Group Head of Employee Relations to join our management team and take a pivotal role in shaping the College's HR strategy, fostering strong employee relations, and driving a culture of continuous improvement.

In this high-impact role, you will lead the operational development and execution of employee relations initiatives that align with our values and business goals, ensuring a workplace environment that is both compliant with employment laws and committed to employee well-being. This is an exciting opportunity for an HR leader with vision, expertise, and a passion for people management to make a significant contribution to our College's success.

This is a group role and will require travel around all campuses, this is not solely based at our Hackney Campus.

Who you are;

You will bring a proven track record in employee relations, conflict resolution, and HR leadership, having developed a deep understanding of employment law, workplace investigations, and performance management. With exceptional communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills, you will be adept at leading and inspiring a diverse team while driving organisational change and continuous improvement. A strategic thinker, you will excel at balancing long-term HR objectives with the demands of day-to-day operations.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic HR Support: Collaborate with the Group Executive Director of Human Resources to implement, monitor, and evaluate the College's HR strategy.

Leadership in Employee Relations: Lead the HR Business Partner team and oversee the development of policies and practices that support a positive and productive work environment.

Employment Law Compliance: Ensure the College adheres to all relevant employment laws and regulations while fostering an open, inclusive, and fair workplace.

Conflict Resolution & Performance Management: Provide expert guidance in resolving employee conflicts, managing performance issues, and conducting workplace investigations to ensure fairness and transparency.

Transformational HR Management: Oversee the day-to-day transformational management of the HR service, ensuring the HR function remains innovative, efficient, and aligned with organisational needs.

New City College is a sector leading college group with campuses spanning east London and south-west Essex as well as two language schools. When you join NCC, you'll join a forward-thinking, dynamic team, sharing best practice to deliver first class education and skills for the benefit of our students and wider communities.

Our college environment is second to none. We boast industry standard facilities and equipment, expert staff and partnerships with other high-profile organisations which all prepare students for progression to higher education or successful careers. Furthermore we make sure we're a step ahead when it comes to the skills and technology needed for the jobs of tomorrow, so that employers across the region - and nationally - know where to come to update their staff teams' skills and qualifications.

New City College's 7-college merger and our combined skills and expertise places us at the forefront of further education in the UK, spanning sixth form education, adult skills, apprenticeships, ESOL, EFL and SEND. With a turnover of £130m, 20,000 students and 2,000 staff it is one of the strongest and most influential FE organisations in the country.

At New City College we're proud of our inclusive and diverse staff and student community. We are united in our zero tolerance approach to racism and discrimination. As we develop our longer-term vision, we will continue to ensure that we invest in our staff and other resources to provide a distinctive offer and excellent, supportive learning environment which meets the needs of students and employers and prepares local people for their exciting future.

As the College supports a number of children and vulnerable adults, all staff are exempt from Section 4(2) of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Accordingly, all staff will be subject to an 'Enhanced' DBS (formerly CRB) check, along with a Children's Barred List check if in regulated activity. Any offers of appointment may be withdrawn if these checks prove to be unsatisfactory to the College. Self-disclosure will be required as part of the recruitment process. If you fail to make a full disclosure or provide sight of your DBS certificate then your offer of employment is likely to be withdrawn. The College's DBS policy covers the recruitment of ex-offenders which is available upon request.

New City College aims to develop a workforce that reflects the diverse community we serve and actively welcome applications from candidates from a BAME background.

Pension: New City College provides a career average pension scheme for all staff. Support staff fall under the Local Government Pension Scheme

Accessibility: All college sites are easily accessible for wheelchair users and via public transport (bus, DLR, or tube).

On-Site Facilities: Free access to on-site gym facilities at some campuses and on-site cafes serving subsidised food and drinks.

Staff Development: Five CPD (Continuing Professional Development) days per year, with access to industry-standard facilities and a collaborative working environment. Leading to opportunities for career advancement and professional development in a supportive setting.

Financial Perks: Interest-free loans for annual travel season tickets. Health cash plan (reimbursement for dental, optical, and therapy treatments) and a completely confidential Employee assistance program.

Discounts: Save money on day-to-day expenses, shopping, dining out, DIY, and travel.

Technology Access: Office 365 and Adobe Suite available for personal devices.