IR/ER Manager

Work closely with an outstanding leader and supportive team to drive a compliant, collaborative and high‑performing workplace culture.

Our client is a leading provider within the education sector, committed to delivering high-quality learning opportunities and creating positive outcomes for students, employees and the broader community.

As the organisation continues to grow, it is seeking a highly experienced Senior Manager, IR/ER to lead its industrial and employee relations strategy across the Australasian business.

The Opportunity

This critical leadership role will partner closely with the General Manager, HR and the Executive team to shape and execute the national IR/ER framework. The role will have oversight of enterprise bargaining processes across multiple agreements and unions, provide trusted advice to senior leaders on complex and high-risk matters, and ensure compliance with evolving employment legislation.

Leading a team of IR/ER specialists, you will lift capability across the HR function and broader leadership group, build constructive relationships with unions and regulators and resolve sensitive ER issues with fairness and consistency.

Importantly, you will also champion practices that foster transparency, engagement and a positive workplace culture.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the national IR/ER strategy in alignment with organisational priorities and values.
• Manage and develop a team of IR/ER professionals, building resilience and capability.
• Provide strategic advice to executives and senior leaders on industrial risks and opportunities.
• Oversee enterprise bargaining negotiations across multiple EBAs.
• Build and sustain constructive relationships with unions, regulators, and employer associations.
• Resolve complex ER matters, including disputes, grievances, and organisational change.
• Ensure compliance with employment law, awards, and governance requirements.
• Conduct audits, risk assessments, and policy recommendations on emerging workforce issues.

• Tertiary qualifications in HR, Law, IR or a related discipline (with postgraduate studies desirable).
• Extensive experience managing IR/ER strategies and teams.
• Expertise in enterprise bargaining and dispute management.
• Strong interpersonal, influencing and negotiation capability.
• High levels of professional judgement, discretion and integrity.
• Exposure to the education sector or comparable service industries (desirable).