The overall aim of this role is to develop and implement effective employee relations practices, policies, and procedures, working closely with the Head of Human Resources. It will also support the continued development of IWA’s people strategy in the area of employee relations, collaboration and employee engagement.
Employee Relations: You will act as a trusted advisor to employees and management on HR-related matters, supporting investigations and providing resolution strategies adhering to legal requirements, codes of practice and IWA policy.
You will also act as the lead in the design and delivery of proactive ER measures. You will be familiar with and capable of deploying suitable and appropriate alternative dispute resolution approaches where necessary.
Specifically, you will work with HR and Learning and Development colleagues to build capability around the informal resolution of issues locally. You will be instrumental in raising local skill sets to manage and lead ‘difficult conversation’ meetings and ensure strong on-the-ground information sharing around IWA employee policies and procedures.
You will have the ability to work collaboratively with staff representatives and, where needed, represent the IWA organisation externally.
Team Leadership: You will be experienced in leading, mentoring and developing a team of capable ER professionals, providing insight, guidance and support.
Policy Development and Implementation: Working with colleagues across the organisation, including other HR Teams, you will play a key role in developing, reviewing, and implementing employment policies and procedures to ensure compliance with relevant legislation and best practices while aligning with IWA’s Vision and Strategic Plan.
Supporting the Advancement of IWA’s Employee Value Proposition (EVP): By working with colleagues, you will support IWA in advancing its reputation in key areas, including dignity and respect, DEI, well-being, and internal communication, thereby strengthening these aspects.
Compliance: You will continually stay abreast of changes in Irish employment legislation and ensure organisational compliance with statutory requirements, providing guidance, advice and recommendations as necessary.
Person Specification (The things we will ask you about at the interview)
Knowledge Areas
To be successful in this role, you will need a minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in a busy and dedicated employee relations role, covering the areas indicated above.
Ideally, we are seeking somebody with a Honours Degree (QQI Level 8) in Human Resources or an analogous discipline. We are prepared to recognise prior learning (RPL) where the person can demonstrate deep experience, knowledge and practice.
Again, we are ideally looking for a person with CIPD membership or somebody who can readily advise what they do about their continuous development, including how they update their knowledge.
Strong understanding of Irish employment legislation and its application in the workplace.
Strong experience in communication, conflict resolution, influencing and persuasion skills, working well with colleagues to achieve consensus and agreement in challenging situations.
Proven experience in people management, including coaching, mentoring, and performance management.
Demonstrated experience with HR Information Systems (HRIS – SAP Success Factors) and proficiency in MS Office Suite.
Personal Requirements
You will be a team player with excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
You will have strong networking and relationship-building skills.
You will have the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment with competing priorities.
It would be fantastic if you had experience working in the not-for-profit sector is desirable.
A full driver’s licence and access to your own car is important.