People Partner

General Description

Sullivan Brown is proud to be working in exclusive partnership with Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service to recruit an exceptional People Partner to join their forward‑thinking People and Culture team.

Increase your chances of an interview by reading the following overview of this role before making an application.

This is a pivotal opportunity for an experienced HR professional to contribute to an organisation that plays a vital role within the community. As a People Partner, you will be instrumental in shaping a positive, inclusive and high‑performing workplace, ensuring that managers are supported, employees are valued, and organisational values are embedded in everyday practice.

You will bring a proactive, solutions‑focused mindset, combining strong employee relations expertise with the ability to influence, coach and build trusted relationships across the Service.

The Role

Reporting to the Employee Relations and Compliance Manager, you will deliver a high‑quality, customer‑focused people service across your designated areas. Acting as a trusted advisor, you will support and empower managers to confidently navigate a wide range of employee relations matters.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Providing expert advice and guidance on employee relations issues, ensuring best practice and consistency.
• Coaching and supporting managers to build capability and confidence in managing people matters.
• Managing a varied and often complex ER caseload, taking a pragmatic and solutions‑driven approach.
• Leading and supporting investigations, ensuring risks are mitigated and outcomes are fair, balanced and compliant.
• Championing organisational values of Safety, Integrity, Inclusivity and Learning in all aspects of your work.
• Working collaboratively across the People and Culture function to deliver a seamless, high‑quality service.

This is a highly visible role where your contribution will directly influence the employee experience and support the continued development of a positive workplace culture.

The Team

You will join a collaborative and supportive People and Culture department comprising three specialist areas:

• Employee Relations and Compliance
• People Systems and Transformation
• Culture and Inclusion

Together, these teams deliver a comprehensive and progressive people strategy. You will work closely with fellow People Partners, People Coordinators, managers across the Service, and trade union representatives, building strong, constructive relationships to promote positive employee relations and high levels of engagement.

About You

We are seeking a credible and experienced HR professional who is confident operating in a complex and unionised environment. You will bring:

• Significant experience in employee relations, including managing sensitive and complex casework.
• Proven ability to work effectively with trade unions and support formal processes and investigations.
• Strong knowledge of employment legislation and HR best practice.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence, challenge constructively and build trust.
• Sound judgement, professionalism and a calm, balanced approach in high‑pressure situations.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities effectively.
• Good IT capability, including experience with Microsoft Office and HR systems.
• A track record of delivering a high‑quality, customer‑focused HR service.
• Experience contributing to policy development and implementation.
• Ideally, experience supporting or developing others.

Why Apply?

This is a unique opportunity to join an organisation with a strong sense of purpose, where your work will have a meaningful impact on both employees and the wider community. You’ll be part of a progressive People and Culture team committed to continuous improvement, inclusivity and excellence. xwzovoh

Tyne and Wear offer an attractive benefits package, from access to the Local Government Pension, 26 days holiday + Bank Holidays, Free onsite Gym, uniform provided, staff social events, Health & Social Club and month raffles.

The salary for this role is £42,839 – £46,142 (pay award pending)