Fixed Term Contract- 24 months

Transform employee relations and build a modern, proactive approach to people management

Tower Hamlets is on an exciting journey to create a high-performing, inclusive and modern organisation.

We are looking for an experienced Employee Relations Transformation Lead to lead the transformation of our employee relations service, moving the organisation from a reactive case-management culture to a proactive, manager-led approach focused on capability, accountability and organisational performance.

This is a high-profile leadership role with significant influence across the Council.

What you'll do

Lead the transformation and delivery of employee relations services across the organisation.
Build a consistent, high-quality approach to employee relations, policy and practice.
Manage complex and high-risk employee relations matters.
Act as the Council's senior HR representative for employment tribunals and legal proceedings.
Reduce case backlogs and improve service performance.
Develop management capability and confidence in handling people issues.
Use data and workforce insight to drive improvement and mitigate organisational risk.
Work closely with Trade Unions, Legal Services and senior leaders on complex workforce challenges.

What we're looking for

You will be an experienced employee relations leader with a strong track record of managing complex casework, leading teams and delivering transformation.

You will bring:

Extensive knowledge of employment law and employee relations practice.
Significant experience managing complex and high-risk ER matters.
Experience leading professional employee relations teams.
Strong stakeholder and trade union engagement skills.
Experience of employment tribunals and legal case management.
A passion for improving management practice and organisational culture.
The ability to create change while maintaining credibility and trust.

Why join us?

This is an opportunity to:

Lead one of the most significant people transformation programmes in local government.
Influence culture and management practice at scale.
Build a modern employee relations service fit for the future.
Be part of an ambitious HR & OD leadership team driving lasting change.

Help shape a culture where people, performance and fairness go hand in hand.

Our Benefits

Competitive salary- £73,266- £78,090
Local Government Pension Scheme membership.
Generous annual leave: 29 days, rising to 33 with 5+ years’ service, plus bank holidays and 3 additional days at Christmas.
Flexible and agile working to support work–life balance.
Staff money-saving schemes (e.g., rent deposit loans, season ticket loans).
Learning and development opportunities through our Learning Academy, with clear career development and leadership pathways.

Tower Hamlets is a truly unique borough at the heart of London – a place where history and innovation sit side by side. From the docks and markets that shaped the East End to the global business hub of Canary Wharf, we are proud to be one of the most dynamic, diverse, and ambitious communities in the UK. We are also one of the fastest growing and youngest boroughs in the country, offering unrivalled opportunities to make a real difference to people’s lives. Our residents are energetic, creative, and resilient, and our council is committed to delivering the best possible services and opportunities for them.

Our award-winning new Town Hall in Whitechapel provides a modern, flexible workplace for our staff, right at the heart of the borough and directly opposite Whitechapel Tube and Elizabeth line station. It is more than just a workplace – it’s a hub for collaboration, innovation and community, designed to bring out the best in our people.

As an employer, we put equality, diversity, and inclusion at the heart of everything we do. Our active Employee Network Groups celebrate and champion our workforce, helping to ensure that everyone feels a sense of belonging. Guided by our TOWER values – Together, Open, Willing, Excellent and Respect – we are building a positive, inclusive culture where colleagues can thrive.

At Tower Hamlets Council, you’ll find exciting challenges, supportive colleagues, and the chance to shape one of London’s most important and vibrant places. If you’re looking for a role where you can see the impact of your work every day, then Tower Hamlets is the place for you.