The role
We’re looking for two experienced and proactive Employee Relations Advisers to join our HR team and play a pivotal role in supporting fair, consistent, and people‑centred decision making across the University.
In this specialist role, you will manage a diverse and often complex portfolio of ER cases ranging from ill health and performance to grievance, conduct, attendance, and pay-related matters. Acting as a trusted expert, you’ll support managers to navigate challenging people issues with confidence, clarity, and compassion.
Both roles are part-time until 31st July 2027, and we will consider applications from those willing to work 0.5 FTE (17.5 hrs) or 0.6 FTE (21 hrs) per week.
As these roles are fixed-term contracts, we're seeking candidates who can quickly adapt and deliver results in a fast-paced environment.
What will you be doing?
You will manage a diverse portfolio of employee relations cases, acting as a trusted expert and main contact for managers and colleagues. Your work will cover a wide range of employee relations issues, ensuring fair, timely, and legally compliant resolutions.
You will apply HR policies consistently, maintain accurate case records in the case management system, and uphold GDPR standards.
Through coaching, guidance, and support for investigations, you will help managers build confidence in handling people matters and making well‑reasoned decisions.
You will draft high‑quality case documentation, stay up to date with employment law and ER best practice, and develop strong relationships with stakeholders and Trade Union representatives while promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion throughout your work.
You should apply if
You will bring strong experience in employee relations and a passion for enabling managers to succeed. You’ll be confident advising on sensitive and complex cases, with excellent judgement, communication skills, and a people‑first mindset. You’ll be comfortable working autonomously, balancing multiple cases, and building trusted relationships across a wide range of stakeholders.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills are essential, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and confidently to a range of stakeholders.
This is an opportunity to use your ER expertise to make a meaningful difference—improving the working lives of colleagues and supporting a positive, inclusive culture across the University.
In return, the University offers an excellent benefits package, including:
- 40 days of annual leave per year (including bank holidays) pro rata
- Automatic enrolment into a highly competitive pension scheme
- Flexible hybrid working arrangements
- An inclusive and welcoming culture that values diversity of thought, experience, and background
Additional information
Contract type: Fixed term until 31/07/2027
Work pattern: Part time - 17.5 hours and 21 hours
Hybrid working is available.
This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on: Sunday 11th October 2026
For informal queries please contact: Sophie Colston (Senior HR Business Partner) on sophie.colston@bristol.ac.uk
Our strategy and mission
We recently launched our strategy to 2030 tying together our mission, vision and values.
£39,906 to £44,746 per annum (pro-rata) (Grade I)