Head of People Partnering

LHH is partnering with a leading, complex organisation to appoint a Head of People Partnering into a pivotal leadership role within their People function.

This is a senior opportunity for an experienced HR leader who has managed a People/HR function and brings strong Trade Union and industrial relations experience.

The Role

Reporting into the Deputy Director of People, you will sit on the People leadership team and play a key role in shaping and delivering the organisation’s people strategy.

You will lead a People Partnering function responsible for a broad employee relations remit, including union engagement, formal consultation and negotiation frameworks, policy development, organisational change, and complex casework.

This role requires a strategic yet hands-on leader who can operate confidently at senior level while ensuring high-quality operational delivery across a large, unionised environment.

Key Responsibilities

Lead, develop and manage the People Partnering function, driving a high-performing service Act as subject matter expert for employee relations and industrial relations Lead Trade Union engagement, including consultation and negotiation processes Coach and support senior leaders on complex ER and organisational change matters Drive a streamlined and efficient approach to people processes and policy Oversee complex casework, risk management, and employment tribunal activity Use data and insight to inform workforce planning and strategic decision making

About You

Proven experience managing a People/HR function within a large, complex organisation Strong background in Trade Union engagement and industrial relations Excellent knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practice Credible senior leader with experience influencing at executive level Coaching-led leadership style with a focus on developing others Experience driving change and improving HR/people processes in fast-paced environments

This is a high-impact leadership opportunity within a complex organisation, offering the chance to shape people strategy and lead a critical function.