Oldham College is one of the largest further education providers in Greater Manchester, supporting thousands of students each year to develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need for their future.
We work closely with local employers, universities, and community partners to deliver education and training that meets the needs of our region. Our staff play a vital role in creating a supportive, inclusive environment where students and colleagues can thrive.
Every role at the College contributes to helping people achieve their potential.
We are looking for an experienced and proactive HR Advisor (Employee Relations) to join our Human Resources team at Oldham College. This is a varied and rewarding role, partnering with managers across designated professional support areas to provide specialist advice and support on employee relations, employment law, HR policy and best practice.
You will play a key role in supporting managers to effectively manage complex people matters, building positive industrial relations through partnership working with recognised trade unions and contributing to organisational change and workforce development initiatives. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with strong experience of complex employee relations cases who is passionate about delivering a high-quality, customer-focused HR service and promoting positive workplace relationships.
In this role you will:
- Provide expert advice and guidance to managers on employee relations matters, employment law, HR policies and best practice.
- Coach and influence managers through employee relations processes, developing management capability and supporting effective decision-making.
- Build positive industrial relations through partnership working with recognised trade unions and support organisational change initiatives.
- Design and deliver training and guidance on employee relations, employment law and good people management practice.
- Support the delivery of the People Strategy while carrying out duties in line with College policies and procedures, including safeguarding and equality commitments.
- Carry out duties in line with College policies and procedures, including safeguarding and equality commitments
We are looking for someone who can demonstrate:
- Strong experience of managing complex employee relations cases.
- In-depth knowledge of employment law and the ability to interpret and apply legislation, case law and employee relations best practice.
- Experience of advising, coaching and influencing stakeholders, including working constructively with recognised trade unions.
- Strong communication, analytical and organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and build effective working relationships.
Please refer to the Job Description and Person Specification for full details of the role and requirements.
We offer a supportive working environment with opportunities to develop and progress. Benefits include:
- 49 days’ holiday, supporting work–life balance, including 30 bookable days plus bank holidays, efficiency days, and Christmas closure
- Pension contributions of 16.8%
- Free counselling and wellbeing support
- Retail discounts through our benefits platform
- Enhanced family-friendly policies
- Paid special leave
- Training and development opportunities
- Free breakfast Fridays
- On-site facilities including canteens and a day nursery
- Free parking and electric car scheme
- Cycle to work scheme
We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of the community.
We are a Disability Confident employer and guarantee an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria.
We support the Armed Forces Covenant and welcome applications from serving personnel, veterans, and military families.
Flexible working options may be available depending on the role.
The College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults.
This role is subject to pre-employment checks, which may include an enhanced DBS check, DfE barred list check, online searches, and references.
It is a criminal offence under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 to apply for regulated activity roles if barred from working with children or vulnerable adults.
We recognise that candidates may choose to use AI tools to support their application. If you do use AI, please ensure the information you submit accurately reflects your own skills, experience, and achievements. You may be asked to discuss your application during the recruitment process.
Please review the job description and person specification and submit your application by the closing date. Interviews will be scheduled for week commencing 3rd August 2026.
Join us and be part of a College where together, we invest in your future.
