Head of Industrial Relations
About Your New Employer
Our client is a leading organisation within the construction, engineering and infrastructure sector.
- Influence employment practices and industrial relations at national level.
- Work closely trade unions, government departments and social partners.
- Join a respected organisation committed to professional advice, constructive engagement and sustainable workforce practices.
About Your New Job
As Head of Industrial Relations & Employment Services, you will lead the organisation’s IR and employment services function, implementing its strategic direction and delivering expert support to the organisation.
You will:
- Develop and implement strategies relating to industrial relations, employment law and workforce practices.
- Represent the organisation in national-level negotiations with trade unions and employee representative groups.
- Lead collective bargaining negotiations, pay agreements and sectoral employment matters.
- Manage complex industrial relations disputes, third-party referrals and employee relations cases.
- Represent the organisation at the Workplace Relations Commission and Labour Court.
- Provide leadership with clear, practical guidance on new employment legislation and relevant case law.
- Develop and deliver HR and employment services through guidance materials, digital content and communications.
- Build strong relationships with trade unions, government departments, social partners and employment institutions.
- Represent the organisation on relevant employment, pensions and policy committees.
- Act as a credible and informed spokesperson at committee, board and stakeholder forums.
- Develop proactive employee relations strategies that reduce industrial relations risk and support stability across the sector.
- Lead, coach and mentor a small team of experienced IR and HR professionals.
- The role is based in Dublin, with some travel required. A hybrid and remote working policy is available.
What Skills You Need
- A relevant degree in Human Resources, Industrial Relations, Law, Business or a related discipline.
- At least 10 years’ progressive experience in HR and industrial relations, including significant experience in unionised environments.
- Extensive experience managing trade union relationships and leading collective bargaining negotiations.
- A proven record of resolving complex industrial disputes and employee relations matters.
- Strong knowledge of Irish employment law and industrial relations frameworks.
- Experience representing organisations or employees before the Workplace Relations Commission and/or Labour Court.
- Excellent negotiation, influencing and stakeholder management skills.
- Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare detailed submissions and documentation.
- Experience engaging with executive committees and senior or board-level stakeholders.
- A strategic, collaborative and solutions-focused leadership style, with sound judgement and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Experience in construction, engineering, infrastructure or a related sector would be highly desirable.
What's on Offer
- A senior, strategic role with the opportunity to influence industrial relations across a major Irish sector.
- The chance to lead a skilled team and work closely with senior stakeholders, trade unions, government bodies and social partners.
- Significant exposure to national negotiations, employment policy, legislation and complex industrial relations matters.
- A collaborative and professional working environment.
- Ongoing professional development and the opportunity to expand your influence at industry level.
- Dublin-based role with access to hybrid and remote working arrangements.
- Competitive salary and benefits package, commensurate with experience.
What's Next
- Apply now by clicking the “Apply Now” button.
