Employee Relations Specialist (Remote)

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 620,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Remote work

Annual leave

Retirement plan

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Employee Relations Specialist to lead ER matters in a fully remote capacity across South Africa. You will guide employees and managers, conduct investigations, and ensure policy compliance while fostering a fair and confidential workplace culture.

The role emphasizes conflict resolution, policy interpretation, and remote collaboration with HR and legal teams. A strong ethical compass and 5–7 years of SA ER experience are essential.

Qualifications

• 5-7+ years in employee relations or IR roles.
• Experience conducting complex workplace investigations and disputes.
• Strong knowledge of South African labor law and IR principles.

Responsibilities

• Investigate and resolve grievances and disputes fairly and thoroughly.
• Provide expert guidance to employees and management on ER matters and HR policies.
• Ensure compliance with SA labor laws and company policies.
• Develop and update ER policies and procedures as needed.
• Conduct ER training for managers and staff.
• Advise on disciplinary processes with fairness and consistency.
• Monitor morale and identify potential issues for intervention.
• Maintain confidential ER records and collaborate with HR/legal teams.
• Support cross-functional projects related to engagement and change.

Skills

Employee relations

Labor law

Investigation skills

HR policies

Education

Bachelor's in HR/Law/IR

Tools

HRIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an innovative financial services provider, is seeking an experienced Employee Relations Specialist to join their team in a fully remote capacity. This role is critical for fostering a positive and compliant work environment across the organization, which operates extensively in **South Africa**. You will be the primary point of contact for employee relations matters, providing guidance to employees and managers, conducting investigations, and ensuring adherence to company policies and labor laws. This position requires a deep understanding of complex employee relations issues, excellent investigative skills, and a strong commitment to fairness and confidentiality. As a remote-first role, you must be adept at managing these sensitive situations effectively through virtual communication channels. You will play a vital role in conflict resolution, policy interpretation, and promoting a culture of respect and equity. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to a supportive and ethical workplace culture from anywhere in **South Africa**.

Key Responsibilities

• Investigate and resolve employee grievances and workplace disputes in a timely, fair, and thorough manner.
• Provide expert guidance and support to employees and management on employee relations matters, HR policies, and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable South African labor laws, regulations, and company policies.
• Develop and update employee relations policies and procedures as needed.
• Conduct proactive employee relations training for managers and employees.
• Advise on disciplinary processes, ensuring consistency and fairness.
• Monitor employee morale and proactively identify potential issues, recommending interventions.
• Maintain confidential and accurate employee relations records.
• Collaborate with HR colleagues, legal counsel, and other stakeholders on complex ER cases.
• Promote a positive and inclusive work environment through effective communication and conflict resolution strategies.
• Stay abreast of changes in labor legislation and best practices in employee relations.
• Participate in HR projects related to employee engagement, policy development, and organizational change.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources Management, Law, Industrial Psychology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of dedicated experience in employee relations.
• Proven experience in conducting complex workplace investigations and resolving disputes.
• In-depth knowledge of South African labor law and industrial relations principles.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a keen eye for detail.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
• Proficiency in HRIS and other relevant HR software.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage sensitive situations remotely.
• Experience in the financial services industry is a plus.
• Strong ethical compass and commitment to fairness.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Fully remote work arrangement offering significant flexibility.
• Comprehensive medical and dental insurance.
• Generous annual leave and paid sick leave.
• Retirement savings plan with company contributions.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development and certifications.
• Access to mental health and wellness support programs.
• A supportive and ethical work culture.