Employee Relations Manager

Placements24; Benoni; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Benoni, Gauteng, is seeking a Senior Employee Relations Manager to lead all employee relations activities within the group, ensuring fair, consistent application of HR policies and effective handling of disputes.

You will advise management and staff, conduct disciplinary hearings, support performance management, and ensure compliance with the Labour Relations Act. This is a permanent, office-based, full-time role demanding integrity, resilience, and professional discretion.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in HR, Law, or related field.
• Minimum 7 years of progressive Employee Relations experience.
• In-depth knowledge of SA labour law including LRA, BCEA, EEA and Bargaining Council agreements.
• Experience conducting disciplinary hearings and investigations.
• Strong communication, negotiation and conflict-resolution skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement and maintain employee relations strategies and policies.
• Investigate and resolve grievances, disputes and disciplinary matters promptly and fairly.
• Advise and coach line managers on ER best practices and performance management.
• Ensure compliance with the Labour Relations Act and other SA labour laws.
• Conduct disciplinary hearings and assist in incapacity and retrenchment processes.
• Promote a positive ER climate and open communication.
• Deliver ER training to managers and employees.
• Represent the company in CCMA and other forums if required.
• Monitor morale and identify potential conflict areas.
• Stay updated with labour law changes and best practices.

Skills

Communication skills

Negotiation skills

Conflict resolution

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Training/coaching

Relationship building

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor's degree in HRM, Law or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading retail group in Benoni, Gauteng , is seeking an experienced and astute Employee Relations Manager to lead and manage all aspects of employee relations within the organization. This senior role is responsible for fostering a positive and constructive work environment, ensuring fair and consistent application of HR policies, and effectively managing disputes, grievances, and disciplinary actions. You will be the primary point of contact for employee relations issues, providing expert advice and guidance to management and employees alike. This is a permanent, office-based position located in Benoni, Gauteng . We are looking for a highly ethical, resilient, and skilled professional who can navigate complex employee relations challenges with professionalism and integrity, upholding the company's values and ensuring compliance with all relevant labour laws.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain effective employee relations strategies and policies.
• Investigate and resolve employee grievances, disputes, and disciplinary matters promptly and fairly.
• Advise and coach line managers on best practices for employee relations and performance management.
• Ensure compliance with the Labour Relations Act (LRA) and other relevant South African legislation.
• Conduct disciplinary hearings and assist in incapacity and retrenchment processes.
• Promote a positive employee relations climate and foster a culture of open communication.
• Develop and deliver training on employee relations matters to managers and employees.
• Represent the company in CCMA and other relevant forums if required.
• Monitor employee morale and proactively identify potential areas of conflict.
• Stay up-to-date with changes in labour law and best practices in employee relations.

Requirements

• A relevant Bachelor's degree in Human Resources Management, Law, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in Employee Relations, with a proven track record of managing complex cases.
• In-depth knowledge of South African labour law, including the LRA, BCEA, EEA, and Bargaining Council agreements.
• Experience conducting disciplinary hearings and managing investigations.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage sensitive situations with tact and discretion.
• Experience in training and coaching managers on ER matters.
• Demonstrated ability to build strong relationships at all levels of the organization.
• Must be willing to work full-time from our offices in Benoni, Gauteng .

Benefits

This role offers a competitive salary package of up to R per annum , reflecting the seniority and experience required. Our client provides comprehensive benefits, including medical aid, a provident fund, and ample annual leave. We offer opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a supportive and challenging environment located in Benoni, Gauteng .