WillHire

Director, People Relations – EMEA

WillHire

full-time

Posted on:

Location Type: Hybrid

Location: London • United Kingdom

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Job Level

Lead

About the role

  • Coach, mentor and develop a high‑performing team using deep subject matter expertise in employee relations, performance management, conflict resolution, labour relations and HR policy/compliance, with a strong focus on complex, multi‑country ER matters across EMEA
  • Build and implement an EMEA Employee and Labour Relations strategy that aligns with the company’s goals and values, partnering closely with key cross‑functional stakeholders
  • Proactively identify employee relations issues and trends across EMEA and develop strategies to prevent or mitigate them
  • Analyse case trends, generate data insights and develop solutions to address hot spots, including training managers on employee relations matters
  • Support existing and emerging Works Council management needs and create and maintain positive relationships with Works Council representatives
  • Manage employee relations issues, cases and investigations in EMEA, ensuring they are resolved promptly, fairly and in line with company policies and applicable local laws
  • Stay current on industry trends, best practices and changes in employment laws to ensure the company remains compliant
  • Ensure effective ER processes, governance and policies are in place and consistently applied across EMEA
  • Partner with an international team of experts to drive a global community of employee relations and people consulting practices
  • Complete ad‑hoc projects, reporting and tasks as required with cross‑functional HR and COE teams
  • Create a fun, diverse and inclusive environment where employees feel heard, respected and supported

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in Human Resources or Employee/Labour Relations; preferably also CIPD qualified
  • Solid knowledge of European labour laws, employment regulations and standard practices in employee and labour relations
  • Extensive experience managing and overseeing employee relations and Works Council relationships across Europe, specifically in countries such as France, Germany and the Netherlands, and ideally additional experience in markets such as Poland, Czech Republic, Italy and Spain
  • Proven track record leading complex, sensitive employee relations matters (e.g. investigations, performance management, restructures, grievances) across multiple EMEA jurisdictions
  • Experience of managing interactions with other social partners such as national‑level Trade Unions or government labour/employment bodies (e.g. ACAS, WRC etc.)
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive employee information discreetly and professionally
  • Experience in conducting investigations and resolving complex issues in a global, matrixed organization
  • Strong negotiation, communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build solid relationships with cross‑functional partners and effectively interact with employees at all levels
  • Strong mediation and conflict resolution abilities
  • Ability to influence business partners at every level, including senior leaders, using data, insight and sound judgment
  • Cultural awareness and deep experience of navigating distinct labour landscapes and ER norms across the EMEA region
Benefits
  • Flexible work arrangements
  • Professional development opportunities
Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills & Tools
employee relationsperformance managementconflict resolutionlabour relationsHR policy compliancedata analysisinvestigationsnegotiationtrainingemployee information management
Soft Skills
coachingmentoringcommunicationinterpersonal skillsrelationship buildinginfluencecultural awarenessconfidentialityproblem-solvingteam collaboration
Certifications
Bachelor's degree in Human ResourcesCIPD qualified