AN officer who has played a pivotal role in maintaining stable industrial relations in the island is set to step down from his post in April.
Senior industrial relations officer Ian Cochrane is retiring after 15 years of providing advice to local employers, employees and trade unions.
Mr Cochrane, who joined the Manx Industrial Relations Service (MIRS) in November 1996 from ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) in the UK, has been instrumental in resolving a number of high-profile and complex employment-related issues.
The search is now on to appoint a successor to continue the wide-ranging remit of the independent, government-funded service.
Mr Cochrane says he can look back on his career with a great deal of satisfaction after overseeing a period of significant change for MIRS in terms of increased workload and public expectation.
‘The role is all about helping people to avoid problems and confrontations by finding a solution to their issues,’ he said.
‘One of the most important aspects is to remain impartial in challenging situations, as building up the trust of the parties involved is crucial.’
Mr Cochrane, who works alongside deputy industrial relations officer Julie Bradley, added: ‘I’ve very much enjoyed working for MIRS and believe it is a well-respected element of the employment services provided in the Isle of Man.’
Chief secretary Will Greenhow said: ‘I’d like to wish Ian a very happy retirement and place on record my thanks for his commitment and dedicated service over the past 15 years.’
The organisation’s main objectives include promoting a clear and practical understanding of legislation, encouraging a non-adversarial approach, and offering conciliation on complaints to the Employment Tribunal.
The post of industrial relations officer is currently being advertised.
The closing date for applications is next Friday (March 2).