Employment Law Specialist

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid contribution

Provident fund

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 in Soweto, South Africa, seeks an Employment Law Specialist with deep SA labour law expertise to guide HR and management on contracts, disciplinary processes, and compliance. The role requires strategic advice, strong negotiation skills, and experience with CCMA and Bargaining Councils.

You will help minimise legal risks and promote compliant employee relations, collaborating with HR partners, management, and operations across Gauteng.

Qualifications

• Admitted Attorney with post-admission experience in employment and labour law.
• Strong drafting, negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
• Experience representing employers in CCMA and Bargaining Councils.
• Ability to work independently and manage a significant caseload.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on all aspects of South African employment law.
• Draft, review, and update employment contracts, policies, and procedures.
• Advise on and manage disciplinary hearings, performance management, and grievances.
• Represent the company in conciliation and arbitration proceedings at the CCMA and Bargaining Councils.

Education

Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a large national retailer, is seeking a dedicated and experienced Employment Law Specialist to join their Human Resources and Legal departments in Soweto, Gauteng . This crucial role focuses on providing comprehensive legal advice and support on all employment-related matters across the organization. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of South African labour law, including the Labour Relations Act, Basic Conditions of Employment Act, and Skills Development Act. This is a significant opportunity to contribute to fostering a fair and compliant workplace environment within a leading retail group, impacting operations across Gauteng . We are looking for a proactive, detail-oriented individual with excellent communication and negotiation skills, capable of managing complex employee relations issues. You will be responsible for advising on disciplinary processes, CCMA/Bargaining Council disputes, employment contracts, and policy development. The successful candidate will play a key role in minimizing legal risks and promoting positive employee relations. You will work closely with HR business partners and management to ensure consistent application of labour law and company policies. The position demands a strategic approach to employment law issues and a commitment to ethical practices. This role is based in the vibrant community of Soweto.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on all aspects of South African employment law.
• Draft, review, and update employment contracts, policies, and procedures.
• Advise on and manage disciplinary hearings, performance management, and grievances.
• Represent the company in conciliation and arbitration proceedings at the CCMA and relevant Bargaining Councils.
• Conduct legal research on employment law matters and provide guidance on compliance.
• Assist in the development and implementation of HR strategies and initiatives from a legal perspective.
• Advise on retrenchment processes and other collective labour law matters.
• Manage the legal aspects of employee onboarding and offboarding.
• Conduct training for managers and HR personnel on employment law compliance.
• Stay abreast of legislative changes and case law impacting employment relationships.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney of the High Court of South Africa.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-admission experience, with a strong specialization in employment and labour law.
• In-depth knowledge of the Labour Relations Act, BCEA, EEA, and other relevant legislation.
• Proven experience in representing employers in the CCMA and Bargaining Councils.
• Excellent drafting, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage a significant caseload.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in retail or fast-paced operational environments is advantageous.
• Based in or willing to relocate to the Soweto area.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with your experience and expertise, along with performance-based incentives. Comprehensive benefits include a generous medical aid contribution, a provident fund, and ample paid time off. The company fosters a supportive and professional work environment, offering opportunities for continuous professional development and career advancement. You will be part of a significant retail organization, contributing to a fair and compliant workplace culture. This role provides excellent career growth opportunities within Gauteng . Make a difference in employee relations from Soweto .