Job Description

Ilharia Group is a multi-site healthcare organisation specialising in optometry, audiology and domiciliary care, with a growing network of locations throughout England and Scotland. We are committed to delivering personalised, high-quality eye and hearing care services while building a people-centred culture that supports excellence, development and community impact.

With approximately 150 employees and actively expanding through acquisition and organic growth, we're looking for an experienced Employee Relations Manager to lead our ER function and support our evolving workforce.

Role Overview

As ER Manager, you will be the go-to expert for all employee relations matters across Ilharia Group. You'll partner with leaders to build effective, consistent and compliant people practices that uphold our values, support employee experience and foster positive workplace outcomes as the organisation scales.

Key Responsibilities

Employee Relations Leadership

Lead all employee relations cases, including investigations, disciplinaries, grievances, performance and attendance management. Provide expert, pragmatic advice to managers to ensure legally compliant and fair outcomes. Build trust with employees and managers as a reliable ER advisor.

Policy & Framework Development

Review and develop ER policies and procedures that are compliant, scalable and aligned with organisational values. Ensure HR documentation meets legal standards and supports sound decision-making.

Manager Coaching & Support

Train, coach and guide people leaders across multiple locations on ER best practice. Drive consistency and confidence in handling sensitive cases.

Change Support & Growth Enablement

Provide ER insight for organisational growth activities including restructures, acquisitions and change programmes. Support workforce planning and organisational design from an ER perspective.

Data, Insight & Continuous Improvement

Analyse ER trends and metrics to inform strategic recommendations. Identify risk areas and develop proactive solutions to improve engagement and reduce disputes.

About You

Essential

Proven experience in an employee relations or senior HR role. Strong knowledge of UK employment law and best practice. CIPD Level 5+ or equivalent HR qualification. Confidence influencing at all levels and managing sensitive matters. Excellent communicator with solid problem-solving skills.

Desirable

Experience in a multi-site, healthcare or rapidly growing organisation. Comfortable leading change and shaping processes.

Why Ilharia Group?

Growth environment:

Be part of a business expanding both in size and scope.

Impactful work:

Shape ER strategy during a pivotal phase of organisational development.

People-first culture:

Work in a supportive, values-driven setting that values contribution and development.

Hybrid Work:

Mix of hybrid working between home, office or ad-hoc on site visits.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: From 29,120.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Employee discount Free parking Work from home
Licence/Certification:

CIPD Level 5 (preferred)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Consett DH8 7PW