Employee Relations Manager

About CCW

CCW is the independent, passionate voice for water consumers across England and Wales. Every year, we help thousands of people by providing free, expert advice and resolving complaints with care, clarity and compassion. We champion consumer rights, deliver influential research, and work with governments, regulators and water companies to drive meaningful change. We are united by our values — Positive Energy, Respect for all, Innovative spirit, Delivery of our promises, and Engaged as one (PRIDE) — and expect all colleagues to bring these to life through their work.

Location: Birmingham or Cardiff

Contract: Full-time

Working Pattern: Blended working

Reporting to: Head of People

We’re looking for an experienced Employee Relations Manager to play a key role in supporting a positive, fair and high-performing workplace. You will manage complex casework, provide expert advice to managers, lead policy development, and support organisational change initiatives. This is a pivotal role for someone who thrives on problem‑solving, influencing, and helping managers to navigate sensitive people issues with confidence.

• Provide expert advice on ER matters including disciplinary, grievance, performance, absence and conduct
• Lead on complex casework, ensuring fair, timely and consistent resolution
• Develop, review and implement HR policies in line with legislation and best practice
• Support organisational change, including restructures, TUPE and consultations
• Build strong working relationships with trade unions and stakeholders
• Coach and train managers on ER processes and good people management
• Analyse ER trends and present insights and recommendations to senior leaders
• Ensure compliance with employment law and H&S/HR frameworks
• Promote and champion equality, diversity and inclusion across all ER activity

• CIPD Level 5 (or equivalent experience)
• Strong experience managing complex ER casework
• Excellent working knowledge of UK employment law
• Skilled communicator, able to influence and support managers at all levels
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills
• Experience developing and implementing HR policies
• Ability to manage competing priorities and work independently
• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
• Proficient in MS Office and HRIS systems

• Experience in public sector HR or a similar regulated environment
• Experience delivering ER training
• Experience supporting organisational change
• Chartered CIPD membership

• Professional, resilient, and approachable
• High integrity and confidentiality
• Adaptable, flexible and committed to continuous improvement

• Shape the employee experience in a respected public‑interest organisation
• Work in a supportive, values‑driven environment
• Opportunities for development and CIPD progression
• Blended working for a strong work–life balance
• A role with real impact on culture, fairness and organisational effectiveness

If you’re an experienced ER professional who thrives in a varied and meaningful role, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and help us build a fair, supportive and high‑performing workplace at CCW.