Head of People Relations

Job overview

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a dynamic and forward‑thinking Head of People Relations to lead and further develop our People Relations service covering a 12 month Fixed term.

We are seeking an experienced leader with a strong background in employment law and complex employee relations who is passionate about making a meaningful difference within the NHS. The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership to our People Relations team, delivering a modern, high‑quality advisory service aligned with the principles of a Just Culture.

As a key member of the People Directorate, the postholder will play a pivotal role in shaping, influencing, and delivering the ESHT People Strategy, ensuring our people practices support a positive, fair, and compassionate working environment.

We offer a blended approach to agile working. The role is primarily based at Eastbourne District General Hospital, with the flexibility to work from home and occasional travel to Conquest Hospital, Hastings, as required.

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You will be an inclusive and compassionate leader who treats colleagues fairly, with civility and respect. You will promote open communication, encourage collaboration across teams, and champion continuous learning and improvement.

You will be a CIPD member and hold a Master’s‑level qualification, or demonstrate equivalent knowledge gained through formal study and extensive experience. Experience in business partnering or people management is essential.

You will have substantial experience working closely with trade unions and will bring expert knowledge of employment legislation relevant to the People Relations agenda. You will also have a strong track record of managing highly complex employee relations cases. A thorough understanding of both local and national NHS equality, diversity and inclusion policy is required.

You will be confident in the digital delivery of a modern, progressive, 24/7 people relations service and will support its implementation at ESHT.

Exceptional interpersonal and written communication skills are essential, along with experience in designing and delivering training to a range of audiences.

If you have the expertise, commitment and vision to help us develop a modern People Relations service that enhances the experience of our colleagues, we would welcome your application. We recognise that supporting our people effectively has a direct and positive impact on the experience of the communities who use our health and care services.

Working for our organisation

A wide range of staff benefits are available to our staff including staff development, enrolment in the NHS pension scheme, auto-enrolment to our Temporary Workforce Service, access to onsite nurseries. staff restaurants and accommodation.

In addition to an internal Occupational Health department, all staff also have access to free psychological support through our confidential Employee Assistance Programme. Onsite parking is available from only £50 a year. 

There has never been a better time to join East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, submit your application today.

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