Head of Industrial Workplace Relations

11 hours ago

Canberra, ACT, Australia H2R Consulting Full time $120,000 - $180,000 per year

The OpportunityAs the Head of Industrial Workplace Relations, you will lead the development and delivery of the national industrial relations strategy that supports a large, complex workforce. You will oversee a team of industrial relations experts, with responsibility for the strategic and operational management of collective bargaining, agreement renewals, negotiations, and remuneration frameworks.

Working closely with senior executives and board members, you will also provide expert advice on employment strategy, risk, and workforce engagement. This is a unique opportunity to influence employment conditions at scale, shape the future of workplace relations, and contribute to a sector that plays a vital role nationally. This role can be located in Auckland or Wellington,NZ.

What you will do:

  • Lead national collective bargaining strategy and negotiations
  • Be the trusted senior advisor for IR, Remuneration, and employment frameworks
  • Build enduring relationships with unions, senior stakeholders, and government agencies
  • Manage high-stakes employment risk and litigation
  • Support workforce development through data-driven pay and reward strategies
  • Ensure alignment with organisational strategy, equity goals, and legislative obligations

You'll work closely with the CEO, Board, and senior leaders to navigate a dynamic political and industrial environment, helping shape a workplace where people and outcomes thrive and improve. 

About you:

As the Head of Industrial and Workplace Relations, you bring deep expertise as an IR professional with a strong background in navigating large-scale, complex, and unionised environments. Politically astute and highly knowledgeable in employment legislation, you blend strategic insight with a hands-on approach, ready to roll up your sleeves and engage directly at the table. You are a trusted relationship builder across all levels, known for your resilience, EQ, and ability to lead through transformation to deliver meaningful, lasting outcomes.

We're looking for someone who brings:

  • Extensive experience in leading industrial relations and remuneration strategy within large, complex organisations
  • Proven success in managing complex negotiations across multiple collective agreements
  • Strong political nous and strategic acumen, with the ability to influence and engage at executive levels
  • Exceptional stakeholder management skills, including the ability to build trust with unions, government agencies, and internal leaders
  • High emotional intelligence and resilience, you can read the room, stay the course, and adapt when needed
  • A genuine commitment to making a difference through your leadership
  • Experience working in health is advantageous

How to apply:This is more than a job it's a chance to lead with impact. Apply now at , reference C. For more info, contact El Ferreira on or Applications close Friday, 21st November 2025. All applications will be acknowledged by email.

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