Job Description
About UNSW
UNSW isn’t like other places you’ve worked. Yes, we’re a large organisation with a diverse and talented community; a community doing extraordinary things. Together, we are driven to be thoughtful, practical, and purposeful in all we do. Taking this combined approach is what makes our work matter. If you want a career where you can thrive, be challenged and do meaningful work, you’re in the right place.
Why your Role Matters
As Head of Employment Relations Advisory, you will lead this team in providing a dedicated function that offers staff-related guidance across: industrial instrument and EA/legislative interpretation, union negotiations, workplace change, employee performance, termination, as well as the management of ill and injured workers and all employment related disclosures and conflicts of interest at UNSW.
You will support your team in providing proactive and trusted advisory services across the employee lifecycle matters for both Faculties and Divisions, playing a key role in the end-to-end management and resolution of complex industrial and employment matters. As an expert in your area, you will advise on legislative changes and contribute to the development of the University's enterprise bargaining strategy and implementation, representing UNSW in negotiations.
Reporting directly to the Director of Employee Relations, your role will foster effective working relationships with the broader Human Resources team, ER Conduct and Complaints team as well as the UNSW Legal & Compliance team, working towards the development of forward-thinking HR and ER polices practices across UNSW. The position currently has 5 direct reports (4 indirect).
Skills & Experience summary: We’re looking for an experienced manager to bring strategic insight and a strong executive presence to the ER space. Confident in building relationships with internal and external stakeholders and you’ll be working to influence ER policy and decision-making at the highest levels. You will hold the following skills & experience:
Substantial experience in managing ER matters
Legal practice experience is highly regarded; however, this is not a legal role.
Demonstrated ability to lead, support and develop a specialist team in a complex environment.
Extensive experience providing ER advice to senior leaders, line management, staff, human resources, and dealing with employee unions
High level interpersonal and negotiations skills including ability to liaise effectively with a diverse group of stakeholders, build relationships, interact effectively with a wide client base.
Proven ability to communicate with stakeholders effectively, provide high level guidance and influence outcomes.
Demonstrated ability to think and operate strategically in a HR context, with high level problem solving and analytical skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Sound judgement and the ability to exercise initiative, tact and discretion in dealing with sensitive and confidential matters.
For further information on the role & responsibilities, please refer to the position description
How to Apply: To lead our team in delivering expert advice and support in employee relations, we invite you to submit your CV & cover letter detailing your interest and suitability for the job (as per the skills & experience bullet points in the job description) before Sunday 8 September by 11:55pm, applications will be reviewed as received.
Please note: Sponsorship is not available for this role, valid Australian working rights are required on application.
UNSW Benefits and Culture: People are at the core of everything we do. We recognise it is the contributions of our staff who make UNSW one of the best universities in Australia and the world. Our benefits include:
UNSW isn’t like other places you’ve worked. Yes, we’re a large organisation with a diverse and talented community; a community doing extraordinary things. Together, we are driven to be thoughtful, practical, and purposeful in all we do. Taking this combined approach is what makes our work matter. If you want a career where you can thrive, be challenged and do meaningful work, you’re in the right place.
Why your Role Matters
As Head of Employment Relations Advisory, you will lead this team in providing a dedicated function that offers staff-related guidance across: industrial instrument and EA/legislative interpretation, union negotiations, workplace change, employee performance, termination, as well as the management of ill and injured workers and all employment related disclosures and conflicts of interest at UNSW.
You will support your team in providing proactive and trusted advisory services across the employee lifecycle matters for both Faculties and Divisions, playing a key role in the end-to-end management and resolution of complex industrial and employment matters. As an expert in your area, you will advise on legislative changes and contribute to the development of the University's enterprise bargaining strategy and implementation, representing UNSW in negotiations.
Reporting directly to the Director of Employee Relations, your role will foster effective working relationships with the broader Human Resources team, ER Conduct and Complaints team as well as the UNSW Legal & Compliance team, working towards the development of forward-thinking HR and ER polices practices across UNSW. The position currently has 5 direct reports (4 indirect).
Skills & Experience summary: We’re looking for an experienced manager to bring strategic insight and a strong executive presence to the ER space. Confident in building relationships with internal and external stakeholders and you’ll be working to influence ER policy and decision-making at the highest levels. You will hold the following skills & experience:
Substantial experience in managing ER matters
Legal practice experience is highly regarded; however, this is not a legal role.
Demonstrated ability to lead, support and develop a specialist team in a complex environment.
Extensive experience providing ER advice to senior leaders, line management, staff, human resources, and dealing with employee unions
High level interpersonal and negotiations skills including ability to liaise effectively with a diverse group of stakeholders, build relationships, interact effectively with a wide client base.
Proven ability to communicate with stakeholders effectively, provide high level guidance and influence outcomes.
Demonstrated ability to think and operate strategically in a HR context, with high level problem solving and analytical skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Sound judgement and the ability to exercise initiative, tact and discretion in dealing with sensitive and confidential matters.
For further information on the role & responsibilities, please refer to the position description
How to Apply: To lead our team in delivering expert advice and support in employee relations, we invite you to submit your CV & cover letter detailing your interest and suitability for the job (as per the skills & experience bullet points in the job description) before Sunday 8 September by 11:55pm, applications will be reviewed as received.
Please note: Sponsorship is not available for this role, valid Australian working rights are required on application.
UNSW Benefits and Culture: People are at the core of everything we do. We recognise it is the contributions of our staff who make UNSW one of the best universities in Australia and the world. Our benefits include:
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Head of Employment Relations Advisory position is now open for candidates interested in the Human Resource (HR) Jobs sector. This role in Sydney offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Human Resource (HR) Jobs is a plus.