- Client:JCE Group
- Sector: Manufacture
- Location: Aberdeen
background
JCE Group is a respected engineering and manufacturing company headquartered in Aberdeen, delivering high-quality, bespoke solutions to clients across a variety of technical sectors. With decades of experience and a strong industry presence, the company had built its reputation on operational excellence and engineering precision. However, like many mid-sized firms focused on core service delivery, JCE Group did not have an in-house HR function and typically handled employee matters on an ad-hoc basis.
When an internal employment dispute arose, the management team quickly recognised the need for expert external support. The issue was sensitive in nature, carried potential legal implications, and posed a risk to internal morale and company reputation if not addressed promptly and professionally. To manage the situation effectively and ensure compliance with employment law, JCE Group approached us for urgent HR consultancy.
Challenges
1. Absence of In-House HR Expertise
The company had no internal HR team or procedures in place to deal with a complex employee relations issue, leaving senior management unsure how to proceed
2. Urgent Need for Legal and Procedural Clarity
The matter required immediate intervention to avoid potential legal exposure, with management needing step-by-step guidance to ensure compliance.
3. Uncertainty Around Disciplinary and Documentation Protocols
There was confusion around appropriate disciplinary actions, how to document proceedings, and what communication was legally sound.
4. Risk of Escalation and Reputational Damage
If the situation was mishandled, it could lead to tribunal claims, internal unrest, and damage to the company’s professional standing.
Solutions
1. Immediate HR Consultancy Support
We provided rapid-response HR consultancy services, ensuring the business could act decisively while adhering to legal and procedural standards.
2. In-Depth Case Review and Strategic Advice
After assessing the case details, we guided the leadership team on best practices for managing sensitive employee disputes, including how to communicate clearly and compassionately.
3. Documentation and Communication Management
We drafted all essential correspondence—including disciplinary letters, meeting notices, and case notes—ensuring the company maintained a legally compliant paper trail.
4. Process Oversight and Preventative Measures
We stayed engaged throughout the process, advising on timelines, meeting structure, and outcomes. Following resolution, we delivered a debrief and created tailored policy recommendations to help JCE Group prevent similar issues in the future.
Results
- The dispute was resolved quickly, with minimal disruption to business operations.
- All actions taken were fully aligned with UK employment law and ACAS guidelines.
- The management team felt supported and informed, gaining confidence to manage future employee issues effectively.
- Impressed by the level of service, JCE Group chose to retain us for continued HR support across all employee matters.
Would highly recommend.
