Human Resources Advisor

Primary Purpose of Job

This role sits within the new Business Support division within the newly created Corporate & Support Services Directorate. Reporting to the HR Manager (Employee Relations) or the HR Manager (Policy and Projects) you will be responsible for the provision and operational delivery of the HR & OD function in line with organisational requirements and the delivery of the HR & OD Business Plan. You will be responsible for the day to day provision of high level advice to line managers in all subject fields within the HR function.

Main Duties

Management of a portfolio of HR cases including sickness, discipline, grievance, dignity & respect at work, performance / capability including dismissals, appeals and Employment Tribunals ensuring compliance with Council’s HR policies and procedures, as well as working within current employment legislation.

Providing advice and guidance to senior managers and line managers which adheres to HR policies, relevant employment legislation, best practice and terms and conditions.

Promote best practice and actively contribute in the education, coaching and development of line managers to enable them to understand and effectively deliver people management practices and improve their competence and confidence to manage cases.

Represent Human Resources on employee relations matters such as discipline, grievances, capability, complaints investigations and termination of contract.

Work with senior and operational managers within Departments and the HR team to ensure that operational HR issues are identified and inform the development of HR strategies to support the HR Business Plan and Council’s Corporate Plan.

To assist with the development and implementation of HR and employee relations strategies, policies, systems and procedures.

Support senior managers and line managers within assigned departments in the proactive management of absence across the organisation.

Implement Council’s Recruitment & Selection procedures, in accordance with Equality legislation and associated Codes of Practice, chair panels as required as the Human Resources representative and deliver an effective and timely administration process for all recruitment and selection activities, involving internal and external applicants.

Analyse and interpret policies and procedures and provide advice to senior managers and line managers within assigned departments to assist them in meeting legal, procedural and workforce development requirements and monitor outcomes, to ensure that such policies are implemented consistently and effectively.

Responsible for the implementation of training and awareness in HR & OD related policies and procedures as and when required in conjunction with the OD & Talent Manager and the Workforce and Resourcing Manager.

Lead, deliver on and contribute to a variety of HR projects, issues and initiatives as allocated by the HR Manager (Employee Relations) or HR Manager (Policy & Projects) in a timely and efficient manner ensuring value for money and adding value to Council.

Develop and maintain relationships with Trade Unions and other stakeholders to ensure a healthy industrial relations climate.

Work closely with the Council Employment solicitors and take the lead on any employment litigation as assigned by the HR Manager (Employee Relations) or HR Manager (Policy & Projects).

Ensure that HR assistance and advice is provided by the HR Team in an impartial manner in accordance with all relevant Codes of Practice, Standards, Professional Guidelines, Policies and Procedures, Recommendations etc.

Work with line managers at all levels within assigned Departments to ensure that operational HR issues are identified and inform the development of HR strategies, policies and processes to support the delivery of the relevant HR Business Plan and Council’s Corporate Plan to support continuous improvement and lessons learned.

Good practice: Keep up to date with legislation, guidance and good practice relevant to your role in Council ensuring this is reflected in all activity.

Confidentiality and reputation of Council: Ensure correspondence, systems and records are always maintained with confidentiality and discretion and following GDPR and undertake the duties in such a way as to enhance and protect the reputation and public profile of the council.

Council policies and legislation: To ensure that all duties and responsibilities are discharged in accordance with the Council’s policies and procedures, and any relevant legislation and regulation.

Other: Undertake any other duties which may be required in line with the level of the post as required.

Closing caveat:

The responsibilities set out in this document, in the advert and any additional information are intended to provide a representation of the work you will carry out. It is not possible to include everything you will be asked to undertake, and we expect all colleagues to work flexibly according to business needs and to embrace the opportunities offered by Council to enhance your own development. Your skills, abilities and training needs will be considered and discussed with you when any significant changes to your role are needed. In line with our flexible approach, you may be required to work from home for a proportion of your time or from any of the Council's sites across the Borough.

The Council values the unique contribution diverse applicants bring and, as an inclusive employer, we welcome applications from individuals across all aspects of our community. We will support you where you need it by implementing reasonable adjustments to enable you to perform your role.

Qualifications and Training

Applicants must:

• have a degree in any discipline, and can demonstrate 2 years' experience in the areas below

OR

• Can demonstrate 4 years' experience in the areas below

Applicants should be full, current professional members of the Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development (CIPD) i.e., Associate or Chartered Members. Those who do not hold Chartered Status must attain it within two years of employment.

Experience

Providing advice and guidance to Managers on HR matters including Employee Relations implications

Management of recruitment and selection processes

Experience of effectively working with a range of internal or external stakeholders including Line Managers and Trade Unions

Key Skills, Knowledge and Attributes

These competencies are the top 6 competencies from the Operational Level of the Local Government Competency Framework which have been identified and prioritised for effective performance in this role.

1.3 Managing Performance: Sets clear, aligned, high standard performance goals & objectives for self, others and the organisation.

2.3 Communicating with Impact: Presents a positive image by communicating effectively, being resilient and treating people fairly.

3.1 Collaborating in a Political Environment: Develops and manages effective networks by establishing common ground.

3.3 Meeting Customer Needs: Establishes the needs of customers and strives to ensure that these are met.

4.1 Problem solving and decision making: Gathers information from a range of sources. Analyses information to identify problems and issues. Makes effective decisions and recommendations based on resolution agreement within an environment of trust, mutual respect and co-operation.

4.2 Managing Change: Promotes change effectively and ensures that changes are delivered in line with organisational goals.

Transport

A full current driving licence valid in the UK and access to a vehicle OR have access to a form of transport that enables you to carry out the duties of the post

Applies only to applicants who have a disability under the Disability Discrimination Act.

Working Arrangements / Flexibility

37 hours per week Monday – Friday. The post holder may be required to work outside of normal office hours as required.