Human Resources Business Partner [Employee Relations] - Fixed Term Contract/Secondment

Who We Are

At Network Rail, we're dedicated to keeping passengers and freight moving safely and efficiently across the country. When you join us, you're not just part of a team - you're part of something that matters to millions. We believe that our people are at the heart of what we do, and every role plays a vital part in building a better, more connected railway. Click here to learn more.

We're committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. To discover more about our ED&I commitments click here. We value flexibility and understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance. As a Disability Confident Leader, we'll do everything we can to accommodate any needs throughout the recruitment process.

About the role

Are you an experienced Employee Relations professional looking for a role where you can make a tangible impact every day?

We're seeking an Employee Relations Business Partner to join the South Eastern Railway HR team on a 12-month fixed-term contract , with the potential for extension or permanency in the future. This is an exciting opportunity to become a trusted advisor to managers across the business, helping them navigate complex people matters while developing the capability and confidence of our leaders.

Working within a fast-paced, unionised environment, you'll play a pivotal role in delivering expert Employee Relations support, ensuring fair, consistent and effective outcomes for employees and the business. From managing complex ER cases to coaching managers and delivering development initiatives, you'll help foster a positive workplace culture and strengthen leadership capability across the organisation.

If you're passionate about Employee Relations, thrive on solving complex people challenges, and enjoy building strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels, we'd love to hear from you.

Your experience and skills

What You'll Be Doing

As an Employee Relations Business Partner, you'll assist with employee relations matters across your region, providing practical advice and support that enables managers to confidently address people challenges and achieve positive outcomes.

Your responsibilities will include:

Providing expert Employee Relations advice, guidance and coaching to managers on a wide range of complex people matters.

Supporting managers through case management processes, ensuring compliance with employment legislation and company policies.

Building trusted relationships with managers, HR Business Partners and HR Direct Services to deliver a seamless and consistent HR service.

Developing line manager capability through coaching, workshops and targeted development interventions.

Helping managers find pragmatic and balanced solutions that support both business and employee needs.

Maintaining accurate case records and ensuring effective management of Employee Relations activity.

Sharing best practice and promoting consistency across the wider HR function.

Keeping abreast of employment law developments and emerging Employee Relations trends.

Supporting the wider HR team on regional and organisational initiatives as required.

About You

You'll be an experienced HR professional with a strong Employee Relations background and a genuine passion for helping managers navigate challenging people situations.

You'll bring:

Proven experience in an Employee Relations role, managing a wide range of Employee Relations cases.

Strong knowledge of UK employment law and its practical application.

Experience coaching and developing managers through one-to-one support, workshops and training interventions.

The ability to build credibility quickly and influence stakeholders at all levels.

Excellent problem-solving, analytical and decision-making skills.

Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities in a busy environment.

Outstanding communication skills, both written and verbal.

CIPD qualification or equivalent professional experience.

Flexibility to travel across the Kent Route and support multiple locations.

Desirable Experience

We're particularly interested in candidates who have:

Experience working within a unionised environment.

Knowledge of Network Rail policies, procedures and employment frameworks.

Experience supporting multiple business functions within a complex organisation.

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to join a collaborative HR team. You'll work alongside experienced HR professionals and gain exposure to a diverse range of complex cases.

If you're ready to take the next step in your Employee Relations career and make a meaningful impact, we'd love to hear from you.

Key Information

Vacancy Details

Number of Positions:

1

Contract Type:

Fixed-Term

Hours:

Full Time

Salary:

£43,588 - £53,167

Location:

London Puddle Dock, Blackfriars

Geographical Area:

London (Inside M25)

Closing Date:

27-AUG-2026

Job Category:

HR and Legal

Function:

Southern Region

Organisation:

CL Head of HR - Kent (109005) G5

Location Map