International Employee Relations Manager

We are looking for an experienced Senior Employee Relations Manager with extensive legal expertise in HR and labour laws, specifically within the Sub-Saharan African context.

A proven track record in fostering a positive workplace environment and enhancing employee engagement is essential.

Join us in leading our efforts to build a fair and inclusive workplace culture

This is not a junior/mid level role. We are looking for someone with International experience within Africa.

Recognized thrice by the Financial Times as one Africa's fastest growing companies (2022, 2023 and 2024) and by TIME100 Most influential companies in the world 2023 and 2024, we've served over 5 million customers, unlocking $1.5 billion in cumulative credit for the unbanked across Africa.

At M-KOPA, we empower our people to own their careers through diverse development programs, coaching partnerships, and on-the-job training. We support individual journeys with family-friendly policies, prioritize well-being, and embrace flexibility.

**_ It's an opportunity to work in a company where progress and humility are valued as highly as technical excellence? At M-KOPA we use the latest technologies and tools to build fantastic customer experiences with a socially and environmentally conscious mission that echoes throughout the organization._**:
Our hiring process is as much about us selling to you as the other way round. Our hiring process is a series of meetings as follows;
- Recruiter call 30 mins - an introduction to the process and M-KOPA_
- Hiring Team call 45 mins - High level introductions, from the Hiring Manager_
- then typically;_
- Presentation or Task prepared at home_
- Task Deep Dive with a panel 90 mins - This is where most of the magic happens._
- Pre-Final 45 mins - meeting some peers and stakeholders_
- Final Interview - 30 mins_

Detailed overview of the role and requirements
**Role Overview**

The Senior Global Employee Relations Specialist is a strategic partner responsible for managing complex employee relations issues, developing and implementing employee relations strategies, and ensuring compliance with employment laws and company policies across multiple African countries and the UK. This senior-level role requires advanced expertise in conflict resolution, policy development, and employee engagement to foster a positive and productive workplace environment.

**Key Responsibilities**

**Complex Employee Relations Management**
- Address and resolve high-level and complex employee relations issues, including sensitive complaints, disputes, and grievances.
- Lead thorough and impartial investigations into serious employee complaints, including harassment, discrimination, and misconduct, documenting findings, and recommending appropriate actions.
- Provide strategic advice to senior management on complex employee relations matters, including performance management, disciplinary actions, and legal compliance.

**Policy Development and Strategy Implementation**
- Lead the development and refinement of employee relations policies and procedures, ensuring alignment with best practices and legal requirements across all operating markets.
- Develop and implement strategies to improve employee relations and foster a positive organizational culture.
- Regularly review and update policies and procedures to reflect changes in laws, regulations, and organizational needs.

**Leadership and Mentorship**
- As SME provide guidance, coaching and training to other members of the People team, sharing expertise and best practices.
- Design and deliver advanced training programs for managers on complex employee relations issues, legal compliance, and effective conflict resolution techniques.

**Legal and Regulatory Compliance**
- Oversee compliance with employment laws, regulations, and industry standards across all operating markets, ensuring that all ER practices and procedures meet legal requirements.
- Identify potential risks related to employee relations issues and develop proactive measures to mitigate these risks.

**Reporting and Analysis**
- Analyse trends and data related to employee relations issues to identify root causes, track resolution effectiveness, and recommend improvements.
- Generate detailed reports for senior management on employee relations trends, key issues, and strategic initiatives.

**Employee Engagement and Communication**
- Develop and implement initiatives to enhance employee engagement, satisfaction, and retention.
- Act as a liaison between employees and management, facilitating effective communication and ensuring that employee voices are heard.

**Labour Relations**
- Lead Labour Relations at M-KOPA, including the design and implementation of HR policies and procedures aligned with business plans and company objectives.
- Support the process of negotiating collective agreements as applicable and interpret related labour legislations.
- Develop and maintain positive relationships with labour unions an