Head of Employee Relations and HR Policy

Hybrid Working: Hybrid Working - minimum requirement of 40% on Campus, with 60% considered desirable where possible

At the University of Liverpool, we are on an ambitious journey to deliver Strategy 2031, and we’re looking for an outstanding Head of Employee Relations & HR Policy to help us deliver our aspirations.

This is a high-impact, leadership role at the heart of our HR function. You’ll develop constructive relations with our campus trade unions, shape how we navigate complex employee relations issues, and deliver forward-thinking HR policies that support our People & Culture strategy.

If you thrive in a complex, unionised environment and want to use your expertise to influence organisation wide decisions, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact.

What you’ll be doing

You’ll lead specialist areas across Employee Relations, HR Policy, Organisational Change and Casework, bringing focus, momentum and strategic insight to some of the University’s most complex and high-profile people challenges:

• Leading consultation and negotiation on major institutional initiatives
• Advising the Senior Leadership Team on high-impact employment relations matters
• Owning and evolving a broad portfolio of HR policies
• Providing leadership to shape major change programmes
• Overseeing complex casework activity, monitoring trends and providing insights

What we’re looking for

We’re seeking an enthusiastic HR leader with strategic expertise and proven ability to take proactive, personal responsibility across areas of accountability. Proven success working with trade unions including formal negotiation and consultation, and experience developing HR policy, managing complex casework and leading organisational change are key requirements, alongside expert knowledge of UK employment law and a solutions-focused mindset.

Why join us?

At Liverpool, you’ll be part of a globally recognised Russell Group University with a strong sense of purpose, ambition and community, and you will be joining an enthusiastic and welcoming HR team.

We offer:

• Competitive salary and generous pension
• Hybrid and flexible working
• Excellent annual leave entitlement
• A supportive, inclusive culture
• Opportunities for professional and personal development

You’ll be joining at a truly exciting time, helping to shape the future of our institution and the experience of our people.

Interview dates: Thursday 9th July 2026 for first stage and Monday 13th July 2026 for final interviews