Industrial Relations Lead

## Industrial Relations Lead Apply:
Hybrid:
Reading area:
Full time:
Posted Today:
End Date:
October 9, 2026 (14 days left to apply):
R29890
** If you’d like to be considered for this opportunity we encourage you to apply promptly to avoid disappointment as if applications are high the role will close before the closing date given.
** AWE is recruiting for an experienced Industrial Relations Lead to join the business.  
*
* Location:

** Located in Reading, with free onsite parking.  
** Package:
** Starting from £61,040 – £95,000 (depending on your suitability, qualifications, and level of experience)  
** Working Pattern:
** AWE operates a 9-day working fortnight, with
** every other Friday as a non-working day**. This role is eligible for hybrid working, meaning employees typically spend
** three days on site in a long week and two days on site in a short week**. We support flexible working where possible, including part-time and varied working hours, so please let us know if you would like us to consider an alternative working arrangement when you apply.  
** Ready to play your part?
**** At AWE, it’s not just a job, it’s far more than that. Our shared purpose is to help keep the nation safe. Could this role be the opportunity for you to play your part?
** We are seeking an experienced and influential
** Industrial Relations professional
** to join AWE in a specialist role. You will be used to spending 100% of your time shaping and delivering  Industrial Relations strategy, and providing expert advice on collective industrial relations matters across the organisation.  Acting as AWE's subject matter expert for Industrial Relations, you will champion constructive and collaborative relationships with Trade Unions and employees, leading on collective bargaining, consultation, dispute resolution, and the practical application of employment and trade union legislation.  

You will bring a proven track record of successfully leading Industrial Relations activity within a complex organisation, demonstrating credibility, resilience and sound judgement in complex industrial relations environments. You will possess deep knowledge of employment and trade union law, alongside substantial experience of negotiating with recognised Trade Unions, managing collective issues, and influencing outcomes on significant organisational matters.

If your career has been focused on Industrial Relations and you are looking for a role where IR is your sole professional focus, we would like to hear from you  
** In the role you will:
*** Support the industrial relations aspects of the local, regional and national business objectives enabling the objectives to be achieved whilst minimising risk.
* Act as a change agent in supporting delivery of business objectives through developing a clear understanding of business strategy and close collaborative relationships with business-facing HR teams, senior business leaders and other specialist functions.
* Support the implementation of appropriate bargaining and consultation strategies and tactics to achieve business objectives.
* Manage the bargaining and consultation agenda at local and regional level and lead on the employee relations aspects of the agenda.
* Provide industrial relations support when disputes arise to ensure that the company’s interests are protected and appropriate resolution and/or risk mitigation approaches are adopted.  
** Responsibilities in the role include:
*** Contributing to the development of the overall industrial relations and employee relations strategy of the company.
* Contributing to the development and implementation of industrial relations and employee relations policies within the functions.
* Advising on industrial relations implications of business…