Employee Relations Manager

The Employee Relations Manager will be responsible for delivering high-quality employee engagement fostering and shaping excellent working relationships and influencing early resolution to conflicts and disputes. The Employee Relations Manager will develop and grow a diverse range of strategic and operational supports, services and initiative, with a focus on staff wellbeing and the development of good management practices across the University. The Employee Relations Manager will also prepare and lead the defence of claims against the University at the Workplace Relations Commission, Adjudication Officer and Labour Court in conjunction with other relevant stakeholders. The Employee Relations Manager will play a pivotal role in the development of the Human Relations strategy for the University. This post can be based in either the Cork or Kerry Campus but will involve some travel between both campuses. The successful candidate will be reporting to VP People & Culture. The post holder will initially be responsible for employee relations in the University. As the University implement its organisational structure the role and duties may change. Duties include: Develop an Employee Relations Engagement Model. Maintain key relationships with University management, staff and trade union representatives through regular consultation. Provide advice for managers on staff related matters including the provision of guidance and advance on good management practice. Manage and oversee internal disputes resolution processes. Be the first point of contact for unions and staff in resolving issues, formal and informal. HR lead and support for Senior and Line Management on the development, engagement and implementation of workplace change. Provide employee relations training to Senior Managers and Supervisors. Represent the university at relevant national meetings and all third-party fora relating to Employee Relations. Any other duties as may arise from time to time as directed by the manager or nominee. The duties of this role are likely to develop as the University implements a new organisational structure. The minimum requirements for appointment include: Essential A minimum level 8 qualification in a relevant discipline, for example Human Resources or Industrial Relations from a recognised degree awarding authority or an approved equivalent qualification. A minimum of five years experience of working in an Industrial Relations/Employee Relations environment in a senior role. Desirable An excellent knowledge of current employment legislation and the states mechanism for the resolution of disputes. Management experience to include experience of leading and supporting teams. Demonstrable ability to work collaboratively, flexibly, and collegiately with all colleagues. Ability to assess potential problems, make sound judgement and offer workable solutions. Ability to build credibility and effective relationships with key stakeholders. Demonstrable ability to effectively organize, prioritize, and handle multiple assignments simultaneously. Proven track record in leading the resolution of conflict. Important Notes: Screening and short-listing only takes place on the basis of information submitted on the application. In addition to the minimum criteria, it may be necessary to introduce further shortlisting criteria. Candidates should note that they may be called for more than one interview. Please ensure that full information is given on qualifications and that the information is accurate and corresponds to the original transcript of qualifications. Please ensure that those you nominate as referees are contacted by you and will be able to supply a reference without delay, if requested. The University regrets that it cannot pay expenses for candidates attending interviews for this post or for taking up the position, if appointed. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Appointments will be subject to Garda vetting. Application Process: Applications by MTU eRecruitment system only. Applications will not be accepted in any other format. Please log on to apply for this position. Closing date for receipt of completed applications is 1.00 pm on Monday, 13 October 2025. The information given in this document is of a general information nature only and should not be taken as contractual. MTU is an equal opportunities employer. Skills: Qualifications relevant to the role Min 5yrs Experience Knowledge of current employment legislation