JOBS IN UK: London office seeks Employee Relations Services Manager

JOBS IN UK: Mastercard has begun recruitment for a Manager-level position in its Global Employee Relations Services (ERS) team, marking a significant addition to its people management function in the United Kingdom. The role, formally titled ERS Manager-2, will be based at the company’s London office and will primarily focus on overseeing performance management processes across the UK and Ireland. The appointment comes at a time when multinational corporations are placing greater emphasis on structured employee relations, compliance, and workplace fairness.

Strengthening performance management frameworks

The incoming manager will play a central role in administering and refining performance management systems that affect thousands of employees. This includes handling cases related to underperformance, probation reviews, and policy adherence, particularly around hybrid working arrangements. Mastercard is seeking a professional who can balance organizational standards with individual employee concerns, ensuring that decisions are consistent, transparent, and legally sound.

Bridging managers, employees, and HR leadership

A key aspect of the role involves acting as a bridge between employees, people leaders, and HR business partners. The manager will provide guidance on performance-related matters, assist in drafting managerial coaching plans, and support leaders through disciplinary or dismissal procedures when necessary. The position requires not just procedural knowledge but also strong interpersonal skills, as sensitive conversations and confidential matters will be part of daily responsibilities.

Ensuring legal compliance across two jurisdictions

Given that the role covers both the UK and Ireland, the ERS Manager must be familiar with employment laws and best practices in both regions. This includes understanding statutory requirements, fair process obligations, and company policies related to performance management. Mastercard has emphasized that all actions must align with local regulations while also reflecting its broader corporate values of respect, fairness, and decency.

Driving continuous improvement in employee experience

Beyond case management, the position carries a strategic element. The selected candidate will be expected to identify gaps in existing processes and propose improvements that enhance employee experience and operational efficiency. This could involve refining workflows, updating documentation practices, or introducing clearer guidelines for managers handling performance issues. Mastercard is looking for someone who can adapt to change and actively contribute to organizational development.

Collaboration across a complex global structure

Working within Mastercard’s global, matrixed structure will require close collaboration with multiple internal stakeholders, including legal teams, HR partners, and business unit leaders. The manager must be comfortable navigating complex organizational dynamics while maintaining impartiality and professional judgment. The ability to influence without authority and build trust across departments is considered essential.

Skills and qualifications required

Applicants are expected to have prior experience in performance management, including familiarity with coaching frameworks and disciplinary procedures. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle confidential information with discretion are critical. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is required, along with excellent written and verbal communication abilities. A bachelor’s degree is listed as a minimum educational qualification.

Workplace culture and company values

Mastercard has highlighted that this role is not just about compliance but also about fostering a positive workplace culture. The company wants an ER professional who embodies its commitment to fairness, inclusion, and respect while helping managers lead with empathy and accountability. The emphasis on “decency and fairness” suggests that human judgment will be as important as procedural accuracy.

Location and application details

The position will be based in London, making it accessible to professionals within the UK’s HR and employee relations sector. While salary details for this role have not been publicly listed in the job description, Mastercard notes that U.S. salary ranges can be accessed through its internal People Place portal for reference.

Interested candidates can explore this and other opportunities on Mastercard’s official careers website: https://www.mastercard.com/careers

Part of a broader talent strategy

This hiring initiative reflects Mastercard’s broader strategy of strengthening its global HR capabilities as hybrid work models and digital workplaces become more prevalent. By investing in specialized employee relations expertise, the company aims to maintain consistent standards across regions while supporting its growing workforce in an increasingly complex employment landscape.