Director of Employee Relations and Policy at The University of Manchester

The University is seeking a strategic leader in employee and industrial relations (ER) with experience in large, complex and unionised settings. Applicants should have a successful track record in leading collective negotiation, consultation and communication with trade unions, in leading a team in managing sensitive and complex cases, and in overseeing the development and prioritisation of progressive employment policies. This is an exciting time to join the team as we move closer towards a partnership model with our Trade Unions, working on co-creation and collaboration. In addition, we are at the start of our journey to implement Restorative Just Culture principles in how we manage challenges and conflict.

The successful applicant will join our People Executive team supporting the leadership of our wider People team and delivering the aims within our People Delivery plan supporting our new Manchester 2035 strategy.

Applications will close at midnight on Sunday 26th October 2025. Interviews will be held on Wednesday 5 November 2025.