TUPE for Managers
What transfers of undertakings mean in practice — obligations, consultation requirements, employee protections, and the commercial risks that sit behind the legal framework. Essential knowledge for acquisitions, outsourcing, and service changes.
TUPE is a commercial risk, not just an HR process
Most managers encounter TUPE when an acquisition, outsourcing arrangement, or service change is already underway. By that point, decisions have been made without understanding the obligations — and the commercial risk is already baked in.
This course gives managers and HR practitioners a practical understanding of TUPE before they need it. What triggers a transfer, what obligations follow, what can and cannot be changed, and where the real risks lie. Built around real scenarios, not a walkthrough of the regulations.
Read more: TUPE as a commercial negotiation, not just an HR process.
What this course covers
When TUPE applies
The legal tests for a relevant transfer — business transfers, service provision changes, and the grey areas where disputes arise.
Employee protections
What transfers automatically, what cannot be changed, and the very limited circumstances in which harmonisation is possible.
Consultation obligations
Who must be consulted, when, about what, and the consequences of getting consultation wrong — including protective awards.
Due diligence and disclosure
Employee liability information, what the transferor must disclose, and what the transferee needs to verify.
Commercial implications
How TUPE obligations affect deal structures, contract pricing, and the commercial decisions that need to account for people risk.
Who this is for
- Managers involved in acquisitions who need to understand the people obligations that come with a deal
- HR practitioners managing a TUPE transfer for the first time and needing to get the process right
- Private equity portfolio leads overseeing transactions where TUPE applies across multiple entities
- Procurement and contract managers involved in outsourcing or service changes that may trigger TUPE
Common questions
Is TUPE relevant to outsourcing?
Yes. Service provision changes — including outsourcing, insourcing, and changing suppliers — can trigger TUPE even when there is no business sale. This is one of the most commonly misunderstood areas.
Does this cover post-transfer harmonisation?
Yes. The course covers the legal restrictions on changing terms and conditions after a transfer, and the very limited circumstances in which harmonisation is lawful.
Can this be tailored to a specific transaction?
Yes. If you have a live or upcoming transfer, we can build the session around the specific circumstances and help your team prepare practically.
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