Lead, Employee Relations

About IAG

We are the largest general insurance group in Australia and New Zealand, with a mission to make the world a safer place by supporting the ambitions of people and making insurance accessible across the region.

Role Overview

In this Auckland-based permanent full-time position, you will oversee and empower a team of Employee Relations Specialists and Advisors, promoting a culture of high performance and collaboration within the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership to a team of Employee Relations Advisors and Specialists, upholding the company’s purpose and nurturing an agile and high-performance culture.
• Assign and monitor cases ensuring progress and timely resolution.
• Deliver expert guidance on employee relations matters to leaders, senior stakeholders, and employees.
• Manage and escalate employee relations issues within defined service standards.
• Conduct investigations into complex employee relations concerns and handle claim responses.
• Facilitate detailed reporting, analysis, and insights related to employee relations.
• Support people and culture due diligence and integration following corporate activities.
• Lead negotiations and drafting of collective agreements.
• Design and oversee the implementation of change initiatives arising from modifications to collective agreements, employment contracts, and policies.
• Develop and deliver employee relations training programs for leadership and people & culture teams.

Qualifications and Experience

• Extensive experience as a senior practitioner in employee relations, ideally within a complex commercial environment.
• Advanced expertise in managing cases, conducting workplace investigations, mediations, and representing employment matters before the Employment Relations Authority.
• Demonstrated leadership skills, including the ability to mentor and support team members.
• Strong ability to manage stakeholders and cultivate effective relationships.
• A relevant tertiary qualification in Human Resources, Employee Relations, Employment Law, or a related discipline.

Benefits and Perks

• Enhanced KiwiSaver contributions with a 4.5% employer contribution and life insurance coverage.
• Annual leave of 20 days plus an additional 5 days "MyLeave" for personal priorities.
• Flexible working arrangements including remote work options via the company's myFlex program.
• Up to 50% discount on personal insurance products such as home and motor insurance.
• Health and wellbeing annual allowance of $500.
• Paid parental leave for 14 weeks.
• Access to professional development through LinkedIn Learning, IAG Academy, study assistance, and secondment opportunities.

Additional Information

Applications close on Sunday 26 July 2026 at 11:59PM AEDT.

If you require recruitment process accommodations or support, please contact the company confidentially.

IAG is committed to diversity, inclusivity, and fostering Māori prosperity in Aotearoa through its Māori Strategy, recognising the importance of diverse perspectives and life experiences. The company promotes a purposeful and connected workplace offering significant career and community engagement opportunities.