Temporary HR Advisor - Employee Relations

PUBLIC SECTOR OPPORTUNITY Temporary Employee Relations Adviser Until End of March 2027 £ 20.29 per hour (£39k permanent equivalent) Hybrid (Must live in Dorset and be able to travel to Bournemouth) We are recruiting on behalf of our public sector client for an experienced Employee Relations Adviser to provide practical, professional HR support across a school environment. This is a varied role that would suit someone confident in managing employee relations casework and advising managers on complex and sensitive people matters.

The role Working closely with managers, senior leaders and members of the Governing Board, you will:
Provide advice on employee relations matters, including absence management, grievances, disciplinaries and performance management. Proactively manage casework, ensuring it is handled efficiently and in line with employment legislation, policies and procedures. Escalate particularly complex or high-risk cases to senior HR colleagues where appropriate. Coach and guide managers through employee relations processes. Provide on-the-job training, mentoring and support to managers and other HR colleagues.

Review relevant policies and procedures in light of current legislation and HR best practice. Create practical templates and guidance to help managers take a consistent approach to employee relations cases. Develop effective working relationships with managers, senior leaders and colleagues across the school. Build and maintain constructive relationships with Trade Unions, supporting consultation and the resolution of individual cases. Develop and maintain systems for monitoring employee relations casework, including absence and leave.

About you We are looking for someone who has:
Previous experience of working within Human Resources, ideally with responsibility for employee relations casework. A CIPD Level 3  A good understanding of employment legislation and statutory HR requirements. Sound knowledge of HR policies, procedures and processes. The confidence to advise, coach and appropriately challenge managers. The ability to persuade, influence and support changes in behaviour. Strong relationship-building and communication skills.

A calm, organised and professional approach to sensitive matters. The ability to manage their own workload and competing priorities.

Experience of working within a school, education or wider public sector environment would be particularly beneficial. This is an excellent opportunity to join a supportive public sector organisation and play an important role in delivering a responsive, consistent and high-quality employee relations service.