Employee Relations Manager

Join Our High Performing ER Centre of Excellence – Global FMCG Brand

Based in Gauteng with Travel Requirements

Are you a passionate Employee Relations (ER) professional with a proven record of driving excellence and compliance. Our client is seeking a dynamic Employee Relations Manager to join their esteemed Centre of Excellence. This role is pivotal in shaping and delivering best-in-class ER strategies, ensuring compliance, and fostering a harmonious workplace culture.

Role Profile

As the ER Manager, you will play a critical role in driving excellence within a high-performing Centre of Excellence by shaping and implementing impactful Employee Relations strategies. Leveraging your extensive experience and expertise, you will ensure organisational compliance with evolving labor legislation, support a harmonious workplace culture, and foster strong relationships across all levels of the business.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive Employee Relations by providing efficient, effective specialist services, contributing to a centre of excellence within the HR function.
• Develop and implement robust ER policies aligned with Group HR strategy and evolving business needs.
• Monitor and interpret labour legislation developments, implementing strategies to ensure compliance and mitigate risk.
• Build and nurture excellent relationships with all stakeholders, including management, employees, employee representatives, and shop stewards.
• Critically assess and apply relevant laws, regulations, codes, and ordinances relating to employer obligations.
• Evaluate and refine labour models (insourcing, outsourcing, hybrid, etc.), developing strategies to establish a best-in-class operating model and structure.
• Leverage leading-edge technology, research, and processes to provide innovative ER solutions.
• Identify and lead the implementation of cutting-edge technologies and practices in ER.
• Continuously benchmark against best practice, seeking new opportunities for team and capability development.
• Hold an HR Business Partner (HRBP) role and possess proven experience in HRBP responsibilities, particularly within Employee Relations, to effectively contribute to the function's objectives.

Role Requirements

• A post graduate degree in Labour Relations and/or HR or equivalent - A labour law degree would be advantageous.
• Minimum 8 years' experience in Employee Relations, with a solid track record in problem-solving at operational, tactical and strategic level.
• Proven track records of mediations, conciliations and arbitration management including strong negotiation and sound presentation skills.
• Demonstrable experience at regional and/or global level within a Centre of Excellence or similar environment.
• Deep understanding of HR trends, best practices, and up-to-date knowledge of relevant labour legislation (e.g. Basic Conditions of Employment Act, Labour Relations Act, Employment Equity Act, etc.).
• Demonstrated expertise in industrial and employee relations, with a strong and consistent record of positive outcomes in CCMA proceedings.
• Proven ability to represent the company effectively in dispute resolution processes, achieving successful results at both the CCMA and Labour Court where required.
• Strong business acumen and experience in delivering effective, sustainable employee relations solutions.
• High level of computer literacy and technological savvy, including proficiency with MS Office and HR Information Systems (e.g. SAP).

Why Apply?

• If you are passionate about shaping workplace culture, driving meaningful change, and leveraging innovative practices in Employee Relations, this is the opportunity for you.
• Join a dynamic team committed to excellence and continuous development in a forward-thinking environment.
• Grow your career in a multicultural environment with exposure to international colleagues and leadership.

If you are ready to elevate your ER career within a world-class Centre of Excellence, we would love to hear from you. Apply now to join a collaborative and forward-thinking team