People and Culture Manager, Employee Relations

People and Culture Manager, Employee Relations

locations

Perth, WA

time type

Full time

posted on

Posted 12 Days Ago

time left to apply

End Date: April 10, 2026 (1 day left to apply)

job requisition id

JR105158

About The Team

The People and Culture Office is an integral part of the business strategy and decision-making process. We are a team of collaborative HR professionals, committed to a values-led, people-centred approach that places respect, inclusion and wellbeing at the heart of what we do. We deliver strategic and operational programs and services that support both staff and organisational objectives.

As the leader of our integral Employee Relations division, you will be committed to fostering a positive workplace culture, offering expert ER and IR advice and support and ensuring compliance with employment laws and policies.

Your New Role – People and Culture Manager, Employee Relations

The People and Culture Manager, Employee Relations plays a pivotal leadership role in shaping and delivering Murdoch University’s Employee Relations (ER) and Industrial Relations (IR) strategy through a values-led, people-centred lens.

Leading the University’s ER function, this role provides strategic governance and expert advice across complex workplace matters, ensuring compliance with legislative and industrial obligations while supporting a respectful, high‑performing workplace culture.

As a trusted senior advisor to the Chief People Officer and University Executive, you will balance risk mitigation with a values‑led, solution‑focused approach aligned to Ngala Kwop Biddi – Building a brighter future, together. You will work in close partnership with PCO, the Health, Safety and Wellbeing Office, and key stakeholders to deliver effective outcomes across enterprise bargaining, dispute resolution, and external representation.

The role also represents the University in key external forums and maintains constructive relationships with unions, regulators, and industry bodies.

Please refer to the Position Description for further details.

What We Offer You!

This Continuous, Full Time (37.5 hours per week) position attracts a competitive remuneration package plus 17% employer superannuation contributions.  

You’ll join a dynamic and talented team where diversity and innovation thrive. Our Silver-tier status in the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI), awarded in 2025, reflects our commitment to LGBTIQA+ inclusion, equity, and creating a safe, welcoming environment for all. We strive to be the university of choice for First Nations peoples, honouring Indigenous knowledge. Sustainability is central to our community and guided by clear, confident leadership, we are working toward an ambitious future with goals of net zero emissions and zero waste by 2030.

As well as the flexibility to maintain a work life balance, our staff enjoy a vibrant, natural campus with world-class facilities, along with a variety of benefits, including:

Flexible work arrangements

Salary packaging options – such as purchasing leave, gym membership, car parking permit

Employee Assistance Program

On-campus services and facilities, such as a Childcare Centre, Gym, Vet Hospital, and Chiropractic Clinic

For further information, check out our benefits and services page!

Join us!

Please apply online via the Apply Now button, along with submitting the following documents to support your application -

A cover letter including a statement addressing the selection criteria (with reference to the Position Description)

Your most recent resume (CV)

What you’ll bring to the role:

A tertiary qualification in Human Resources, Law, Industrial Relations or a related discipline, with senior‑level ER/IR leadership experience in a complex organisation.

Proven capability leading enterprise bargaining, union negotiations and formal dispute resolution processes with a balanced, people-centred mindset.

Sound judgement and strong risk management skills across complex, sensitive and high‑impact matters, coupled with empathy and fairness.

Clear, influential communication skills, with experience advising Executives and preparing high‑quality briefs and submissions.

A collaborative people leader with a track record of building high‑performing teams and delivering outcomes through strong planning and organisation.

Please note, the successful candidate will be required to undertake a criminal record check in accordance with the University's Employee Background Checks Procedure.

Applicants should refer to the Position Description for further details on the work requirements, duties, skills and experience required for this role. Applications sent by post or email will not be accepted.

Please note visa sponsorship is not available for this position. Applicants are expected to have current and valid work rights in Australia.

Please see the Applicant Guide for more information. Applicants who have support or access requirements, are encouraged to advise this at the time of their application, to ensure appropriate assistance is provided throughout the recruitment process.

Contact Us

For enquiries about the opportunity on offer please reach out to Sharon Russell, Chief People Officer, Sharon.Russell@murdoch.edu.au and quote JR105158 as the reference.

Applications Close on 9 April 2026 (11:59pm AWST)

The University reserves the right to withdraw this advertisement at any time.

Murdoch University acknowledges the different perspectives, skills and experience that people from different backgrounds bring to strengthen its workforce. Murdoch University is committed to enhancing diversity in all its forms and strongly encourages suitably qualified candidates from Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, women, people with disability, people of CaLD background and people of diverse genders to apply for this important position.

Murdoch University values workplace diversity, promotes inclusion, and strongly encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, women, and individuals with disability. Applicants who have support or access requirements, are encouraged to advise this at the time of their application, to ensure appropriate assistance is provided throughout the recruitment process.