Head of Human Resource

Boardroom Appointments; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Job summary

Boardroom Appointments seeks a strategic Head of Human Resources in Cape Town to lead the HR function and align people strategy with the business plan. You will partner with the CEO and executive team to drive talent management, organizational design and change initiatives while ensuring compliance with SA labour laws.

The role requires 10+ years of progressive HR leadership, with at least 5 years at executive level, and a track record in media, publishing or digital sectors is preferred.

Qualifications

• Formal education: B-degree in HR, Business Admin, Industrial Psychology or related field.
• Masters degree advantageous.
• Professional HR certification (e.g., SABPP).
• 10+ years of progressive HR leadership experience, with at least 5 years at executive level.
• Experience in media, publishing, or digital organizations preferred.

Responsibilities

• Strategic HR leadership: develop and implement HR strategies aligned with business strategy; participate in executive decision-making.
• Talent management & development: oversee recruitment, retention, succession planning, and leadership development.
• Organizational design & change management: lead design and restructuring, manage change for adoption.
• Employee relations & engagement: maintain positive employee relations and wellness programs; promote DEI initiatives.
• HR compliance & governance: ensure SA labour law compliance; develop policies and governance frameworks.
• HR operations & systems: oversee HR systems, monitor metrics, manage budget.

Skills

Strategic HR leadership

HR strategy development

Change management

People leadership

Stakeholder management

Education

B-degree in Human Resources or related field

Masters degree advantageous

Professional HR certification (e.g., SABPP)

Tools

HRIS / HR analytics

Job description

The Head of Human Resources is responsible for developing and executing the human resource strategy in support of the organisations overall business plan and strategic direction. This executive leadership role reports to the CEO and leads and directs the HR functions of the entire organisation while acting as a strategic business partner to the CEO and executive leadership team.

POSITION DESCRIPTION: OUTPUT

MAIN OUTPUTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THIS POSITION

Strategic HR Leadership

• Develop and implement HR strategies and initiatives aligned with the companys business strategy.
• Serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, contributing to overall company strategy and decision-making.
• Drive organizational effectiveness and sustainability through innovative HR practices.

Talent Management & Development

• Design and oversee comprehensive talent management programs, including recruitment, retention, and succession planning.
• Lead performance management systems and processes across the organization.
• Develop leadership capabilities through targeted development programs.
• Create and implement employee engagement initiatives to foster a positive workplace culture.

Organizational Design & Change Management

• Lead organizational design and restructuring initiatives as the company evolves.
• Manage change processes effectively to minimize disruption and maximize adoption.
• Ensure alignment between organizational structure and business objectives.

Employee Relations & Engagement

• Establish and maintain positive employee relations across all business units.
• Oversee employee wellbeing and wellness programs.
• Develop and implement diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies and initiatives.

HR Compliance & Governance

• Ensure compliance with South African labour laws and regulations.
• Develop and implement HR policies, procedures, and standards.
• Manage HR risk and implement appropriate governance frameworks.

HR Operations & Systems

• Oversee the implementation and optimization of HR systems and technology.
• Monitor HR metrics and analytics to drive continuous improvement.
• Manage the HR budget effectively.

JOB EVALUATION CRITERIA: INPUT

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• FORMAL EDUCATION
  At least a B-degree in Human Resources, Business Administration,
• Industrial Psychology, or related field.
• Masters degree in a relevant field would be advantageous.
• Professional HR certification (e.g., SABPP registration).
• EXPERIENCE
  10+ years of progressive HR leadership experience, with at least 5 years at executive level.
• Proven experience in a media, publishing, or digital organization preferred.
• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing HR strategies that support business objectives.
• Significant experience in leading organizational change and transformation.
• Experience working in a diverse, multi-faceted organization.

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

• In-depth knowledge of South African labor legislation and employment practices.
• Strong business acumen and strategic thinking capabilities.
• Excellent leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate data into actionable insights.
• Proven ability to influence at all levels of an organization.
• Experience with HR information systems and digital HR tools.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Forward-thinking, innovative approach to HR management.
• Strong ethical standards and integrity.
• Resilient and adaptable to change.
• Collaborative team player with the ability to build strong relationships.
• Results-oriented with a focus on execution.
• Passion for developing people and organizations.