Employee Relations / Industrial Relations Manager

  • Australia
  • Sydney
  • Permanent
  • AU$150000 - AU$170000 per annum + + bonus + benefits

ER/IR Manager

Location: Rhodes (4 days in office, 1 day WFH)

Salary: Approx. $170K + super, bonus, staff discounts & benefits

About the Role

We are seeking a highly experienced ER/IR Manager to join a dynamic, collaborative organisation in Sydney. Reporting to the Head of People, you will lead a switched-on but junior People & Culture team, acting as both mentor and strategic advisor. This is a pivotal role bridging the P&C function and senior leadership, providing expertise across employee relations, HR legislation, modern awards, EBAs, and union matters.

You will manage both BAU and project-based HR/ER initiatives, acting as an effective change agent to influence leaders and support organisational growth. This role offers the chance to make a real impact within a forward-focused, privately-owned company with a warm and collaborative culture.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead, mentor, and develop a junior People & Culture team (generalists, coordinators, business partners).
  • Provide expert guidance on employee relations, HR legislation, modern awards, EBAs, and union negotiations.
  • Act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, coaching leaders and influencing decisions.
  • Drive and deliver both operational and project-based HR/ER initiatives.
  • Foster a positive culture and support organisational change and growth.

Experience & Skills

  • 10+ years’ experience in HR, ER/IR, with both strategic and operational expertise.
  • Proven experience leading teams and developing junior staff.
  • Strong industrial relations and union experience, ideally within distribution centres, logistics, or retail.
  • Demonstrated ability to coach leaders and build strong stakeholder relationships.
  • Deep knowledge of ER legislation, modern awards, EBAs, and union negotiations.

Key Stakeholders

  • CEO, CFO, COO, Head of People
  • Retail leaders, regional and state managers, distribution centre leaders
  • P&C, HR, and Safety teams

Why Join?

  • Be part of a warm, approachable, and collaborative culture.
  • Work closely with engaged senior leadership, including a highly accessible CEO.
  • Influence and shape the future People & Culture strategy.
  • Enjoy flexible working, free parking, and a comprehensive benefits package.
  • This role suits a hands-on, approachable leader who thrives in a collaborative environment.

Apply now

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