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Human Resources

Employee Relations Advisor

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Primary Secondary Post-16

An Employee Relations Advisor works within the Human Resources (HR) department of an organisation. Their main role is to support and advise both managers and employees on workplace issues such as grievances, disciplinary procedures, conflict resolution, and changes to employment terms and policies. They ensure that workplaces remain fair and compliant with employment law, supporting a positive working environment and reducing the risk of disputes. Advisors often get involved in training managers, conducting investigations into complaints, and helping to develop workplace policies. Strong communication, problem-solving, and knowledge of employment law are key to this job.

Employee Relations Advisor

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📊 Statistics

Average Salary

In the UK, Employee Relations Advisors typically earn between £28,000 and £42,000 per year, depending on experience and location.

Job Opportunities

There are over 4,000 positions for Employee Relations Advisors and similar HR roles advertised annually across the UK.

Sector Growth

The HR sector, including employee relations, is expected to grow by about 4 percent between 2024 and 2028, reflecting the ongoing need for workplace expertise.

🚀 Careers in this path

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Employee Relations Case Manager

Focuses on handling complex employee relations cases, such as grievances, disciplinary issues, and conflict resolution within an organisation.

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Workplace Mediator

Specialises in mediating disputes between employees or between employees and management, aiming to solve conflicts without formal procedures.

Trade Union Representative

Represents employees in discussions and negotiations with employers, particularly regarding workplace disputes, pay, and working conditions.

Gain Relevant Qualifications

Complete GCSEs and A Levels

Start by achieving good GCSEs, especially in English and Maths, followed by relevant A Levels such as Business Studies, Psychology or Sociology.

Employers will look for strong communication and analytical skills, which can be developed through your choices at GCSE and A Level. Subjects like Law or Psychology can provide valuable insights into human behaviour and workplace dynamics.

Pursue Higher Education or Apprenticeship

Obtain a degree in Human Resources, Business Management, or a related field, or complete a Level 3 or 5 HR apprenticeship.

A university degree in HR, Business, or similar subjects is highly valued. Alternatively, apprenticeships offer on-the-job experience and professional qualifications such as CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) Level 3 or 5, which are respected in the field.

Build Practical Experience

Gain HR Experience

Secure an entry-level HR role, such as HR Assistant or HR Administrator, to develop a strong foundation in HR processes.

These roles will expose you to key areas such as recruitment, onboarding, and basic employee relations. Volunteering in HR for charities or student organisations can also provide valuable experience if paid roles are limited.

Develop Conflict Resolution Skills

Get involved in situations that require mediation, handling grievances, or supporting workplace investigations to build confidence in conflict management.

You may have opportunities to shadow or assist with investigations, disciplinary meetings, and mediation sessions. Seek feedback and training from senior HR or Employee Relations professionals to improve your approach.

Achieve Professional Accreditation and Progress

Gain CIPD Accreditation

Work towards gaining CIPD Level 5 or Level 7 qualifications to enhance your knowledge and credibility.

The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) offers recognised qualifications that are often required or preferred by employers. As you progress, you can specialise in Employee Relations modules and attend relevant workshops or conferences.

Apply for Employee Relations Advisor Roles

Look for vacancies in organisations seeking Employee Relations Advisors and apply, showcasing your experience and qualifications.

Prepare a strong CV and cover letter that highlights your conflict management skills, HR experience, and commitment to best practice. During interviews, be ready to discuss scenarios involving grievances, investigations, and employment law.

🎯 View Apprenticeships

Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Employee Relations Advisor. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.

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Career Progressions

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Sample Qualifications

An Employee Relations Advisor primarily focuses on managing employee relationships, resolving disputes, and ensuring a positive work environment, which aligns closely with the responsibilities of a Human Resources Officer. Both roles require skills in communication, conflict resolution, and understanding employment law.

How to become

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • a college course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role
  • specialist courses run by professional bodies

University

You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in any subject. You could then apply for a graduate human resources (HR) training scheme.

You may have an advantage if you study for an HR related subject like:

  • human resources management
  • business management and human resources
  • psychology

If you already have a degree, you could do a postgraduate qualification in human resource management, though this is not essential.

Graduate jobs

You can find graduate HR opportunities with:

  • small and medium sized private sector companies in most industries
  • large multi-national companies
  • charities and education organisations
  • public sector employers like the NHS and Civil Service

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course

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College

You can study for human resources qualifications at college, such as the Foundation Certificate in People Practice, offered by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).

Courses like these are aimed at helping people to get some of the knowledge and skills needed to find their first job and get started in the profession.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for these courses vary.

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Apprenticeship

You may be able to apply for an apprenticeship, for example:

  • HR Support Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
  • People Professional Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship

Entry requirements

Employers will set their own entry requirements.

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Work

You could start as a human resources assistant or a business administrator in a company's HR department and work your way up through training and promotion.

Other Routes

You can study a range of professional qualifications in human resources, either online or at a training centre approved by the CIPD.

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Career tips

Take a look at the CIPD Profession Map to find out more about the values, knowledge and behaviours needed by HR officers.

Further information

You can learn about a career in human resources from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development and Personnel Today.

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