Global Employee Relations Director

Arcadis is the world's leading company delivering sustainable design, engineering, and consultancy solutions for natural and built assets.

We are more than 36,000 people, in over 70 countries, dedicated to improving quality of life. Everyone has an important role to play. With the power of many curious minds, together we can solve the world's most complex challenges and deliver more impact together.

Role description:

You will play a critical role in managing the people side of transformation-particularly during major transitions such as restructuring, mergers & acquisitions (M&A), and cultural shifts-by providing strategic ER/IR support to ensure smooth execution and minimal risk. Above all, you will ensure our people feel seen, heard, and respected during times of change. As a trusted advisor to senior leaders, you will navigate the complexities of the ER landscape while fostering fairness, transparency, and inclusion across the organization.

Role accountabilities:

Internally, partner closely with People Business Partners and Advisors, Legal, Compliance and senior leadership teams to embed best-in-class ER practices into day-to-day operations and strategic planning.

Externally, act as the face of the organization in engagement with works councils, regulators, and industry bodies. Represent the company with credibility, diplomacy, and a commitment to collaboration.

Lead a diverse, high-performing global ER/IR team. Cultivate a learning culture, build deep expertise, and ensure the team is equipped to navigate complexity with agility. Partner seamlessly with HR, Legal, Compliance, and senior leaders to co-create solutions.

1. Develop and execute a globally consistent ER/IR strategy that balances global consistency with local relevance.
2. Champion proactive risk management and compliance with labor laws and employment practices.
3. Lead labor relations strategies, including union engagement and collective bargaining.
4. Resolve sensitive and complex ER cases while modeling values-driven decision-making.
5. Provide strategic ER support during organizational transformations, such as M&A and restructuring.
6. Utilize data insights to drive continuous improvement and enhance employee experience.

Qualifications & Experience:

We're looking for a dynamic, globally minded leader who combines strategic vision with deep expertise in employee and industrial relations. The ideal candidate is someone who thrives in complex, multicultural environments and brings a balance of legal knowledge, people leadership, and business acumen.

Preferably equipped with a legal qualification and a strong background in employment law, with a comprehensive knowledge of employment regulations across multiple geographies.

Why Arcadis?

We can only achieve our goals when everyone is empowered to be their best. We believe everyone's contribution matters. It's why we are pioneering a skills-based approach, where you can harness your unique experience and expertise to carve your career path and maximize the impact we can make together.

Your Commitment to Equality, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging

We want you to be able to bring your best self to work every day, which is why we take equality and inclusion seriously and hold ourselves to account for our actions. Our ambition is to be an employer of choice and provide a great place to work for all our people.