Manager - Employee Relations

At Hunter New England Local Health District, we're committed to improving the health and wellbeing of our communities every day. With approximately 20,000 employees across metropolitan, regional, rural and remote locations, our workforce is one of our greatest strengths. We're seeking an experienced and influential workplace relations professional to join our People & Culture leadership team as Manager Employee Relations. This is an exciting opportunity to lead industrial and employee relations strategy across a large and diverse organisation while playing a key role in supporting organisational change, workforce reform and positive employee experiences.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced employee relations leader to provide strategic advice, build capability and support the effective management of complex industrial and workplace matters across HNELHD.

As the Manager, Employee Relations, you will:

- Lead the development and implementation of employee and industrial relations strategies aligned with organisational objectives and legislative obligations.
- Assists with representation in industrial commissions and tribunals.
- Provides employment law advice, develop local policies and ensures compliance with legislation, awards and NSW Health policies.
- Maintain strong, collaborative relationships with industrial partners, union representatives, government bodies and internal stakeholders.
- Drive proactive employee and industrial relations strategies that minimise industrial action, reduce escalation of complex workplace matters and ensure compliance with legislation, awards and NSW Health policy.
- Build workforce relations capability across the HR Business Partnering team through expert coaching, guidance and leadership in investigations, consultation, dispute resolution, grievance management and award interpretation.
- Provide timely support and advice to the HNELHD Executive and People & Culture teams on complex workplace matters and strategy.
- Act as the key liaison between HNELHD and the NSW Ministry of Health Workforce Relations team.
- Drive system-wide reform by developing and embedding best-practice change management, consultation and governance frameworks that strengthen decision-making and ensure cultural capability is integrated into organisational policy and practice.

This is a rewarding and dynamic role that offers the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the employee experience and contribute to the broader success of our health services across metro, regional, rural, and remote settings.

Where you'll be working

This position is primarily based in Waratah, Newcastle however for the right candidate, a location elsewhere within the district may be considered. As part of a district-wide leadership team, you will also be required to travel across the Local Health District to support staff and services on-site. Hunter New England Health provides an inclusive and flexible working environment that supports work-life balance.

About You

You are a strategic and solutions-focused leader who thrives in complex environments and is confident managing sensitive workplace matters.

You bring extensive experience across industrial and employee relations, with the ability to balance organisational objectives, legislative requirements and people-centred outcomes.

You will have:

- Demonstrated experience developing policy and standardised practices, as well as building the capability of others in these.
- Demonstrated experience in representing employers in industrial commissions and tribunals.
- Demonstrated ability to independently manage a large and varied caseload of complex matters, and to provide accurate and strategic briefings, submissions, and advice within tight timeframes.
- Strong leadership and negotiation skills, with the ability to represent the organisation in high-level discussions and forums.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare submissions and brief senior leaders and legal counsel.
- Experience in coaching, mentoring and building capability across a HR team.
- Proven ability to foster collaborative relationships with unions, staff, leaders and external agencies.
- Relevant tertiary qualifications in Human Resources Management, Employee Relations, Law, Business or other relevant field and/or significant professional experience in employee relations management.
- A current driver’s licence and willingness to travel across HNELHD.

Why Join HNELHD?

At Hunter New England Health, enjoy a career where you’re challenged by interesting, meaningful work while surrounded by spectacular locations and a strong values-led culture.

We offer:

• Monthly Allocated Day Off (ADO) for full-time employees

• 4 weeks annual leave (pro-rata for part-time)

• Paid parental leave (for eligible employees)

• Salary packaging options - up to $11,600 plus novated leasing 

• Fitness Passport for health and well-being - discounted gym options for you and your family 

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for staff and their families

• Opportunities to collaborate with diverse teams across clinical and non-clinical areas

• Sustainable Healthcare: Together towards zero

Additional Information

Applications close: Wednesday, 19th August 2026

Location: Negotiable within the Hunter New England District 

This position is full time; however, part time/job share arrangements may also be considered.

For role related queries or questions contact Jane Street on jane.street@health.nsw.gov.au