Employee Relations Lead

Reporting to the UK People Leader, you will lead our approach to Employee Relations in the UK, owning the development of ER strategy, policies, and procedures in alignment with GHD's culture and upcoming legislative changes. You’ll also act as a key Business Partner to selected teams within our UK operations.

• Act as the go-to expert on complex ER matters, including performance, conduct, grievances, and disciplinaries.
• Build strong internal client relationships and provide commercial HR support to leaders.
• Oversee and resolve sensitive cases, settlements, and conciliation processes.
• Provide expert guidance on HR frameworks across the employee lifecycle – from recruitment and performance to succession and retention.
• Leverage people analytics to uncover trends and support informed decision-making.
• Collaborate with the global People team and external networks to share insights and drive innovation.
• Lead and evolve the ER strategy for the UK region.
• Lead ER-related training and capability-building across the business.
• Guide and mentor the business partnering team in best practice case management.
• Partner with legal and compliance teams to manage risk and ensure regulatory alignment.
• Support and influence organisational change and transformation projects.
• Ensure GHD policies reflect legal, cultural, and DEI developments.

This role offers the best of both worlds: deep involvement in shaping policy and resolving complex cases, combined with the opportunity to influence business strategy through data-led people insights.

This is a high-impact role for a seasoned HR professional to shape our Employee Relations (ER) framework across the region and act as a trusted advisor and partner to senior business leaders.

• Composed – calm and professional under pressure.
• Adaptable – comfortable navigating ambiguity and shifting priorities.
• Demonstrated success in leading ER strategies and influencing senior stakeholders.
• Influential – skilled in engaging and persuading others with integrity.
• Deep expertise in UK employment law and managing complex ER issues including ACAS processes and Employment Tribunals.
• Credible – trusted to deliver with consistency and professionalism.
• Experience supporting business units as a strategic HR partner.
• High emotional intelligence, resilience, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment.

• Up to 25 days annual leave + option to buy up to 4 additional weeks.
• Clear career pathways—whether your passion lies in technical excellence, client leadership, or people management.
• Competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package (pension, medical, income protection, enhanced parental leave, and more).
• Access to our Employee Network Groups and tools to support your mental health and wellbeing.
• The chance to be part of a company committed to diversity, sustainability, and ethical leadership.