Head of HR Operations

C40 Cities; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organization is seeking a Head of HR Operations in Johannesburg to transform the HR function within a dynamic Retail Segment. The ideal candidate has significant HR leadership experience, particularly in retail, and is skilled in creating efficient HR operations. This is a key role driving operational excellence while partnering with business leaders to align HR efforts with organizational goals.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of HR experience within the retail industry.
• 3–5 years in a senior HR Business Partnering or leadership role.
• Strong experience working in complex organisational structures.

Responsibilities

• Design and embed a new HR operations structure tailored to retail.
• Drive efficiency and consistency across people processes.
• Partner with business leaders to align HR delivery with organisational goals.
• Lead and develop a high-performing HR Ops team.
• Ensure compliance, operational excellence, and data-driven decision-making.

Skills

HR experience in retail

Leadership skills

Agility and adaptability

Strategic mindset

Education

Degree in Human Resources or related field

Job description

We’re seeking a Head of HR Operations to lead and transform the HR function within a dynamic Retail Segment, with added exposure to the evolving needs of the Healthcare business. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced HR professional to drive operational excellence, lead change, and shape the future of HR delivery in a fast-paced, complex environment. Based in Johannesburg, South Africa.

What We’re Looking For:

Degree in Human Resources or related field (required)

8+ years of HR experience within the retail industry

3–5 years in a senior HR Business Partnering or leadership role

Strong experience working in complex organisational structures

Proven success in setting up or reshaping HR Ops functions for high-volume environments

Agile and adaptable with a keen understanding of retail and healthcare business dynamics

Strategic mindset with hands-on operational capability

Key Responsibilities:

Design and embed a new HR operations structure tailored to retail

Drive efficiency and consistency across people processes

Partner with business leaders to align HR delivery with organisational goals

Lead and develop a high-performing HR Ops team

Ensure compliance, operational excellence, and data-driven decision-making