Head of Human Resources

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Executive medical aid

Generous retirement fund contributions

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Head of Human Resources in Cape Town to lead the HR function, shaping strategy and directing talent management, performance, compensation, and compliance in a dynamic financial services environment.

The role requires strategic leadership, strong stakeholder engagement, and a track record of driving organizational change while building teams that deliver sustainable results in South Africa.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in Human Resources with progression to senior leadership
• Proven ability to develop and implement HR strategies
• Strong knowledge of HR functions: talent management, comp & benefits, employee relations, L&D

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute HR strategies aligned with business goals
• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, training, performance management and offboarding
• Manage employee relations and ensure productive work environment
• Design and administer compensation and benefits
• Drive organizational development and change management
• Ensure compliance with South Africa labor laws
• Lead and mentor HR team and manage budget

Skills

Leadership

HR strategy

Labor law knowledge

Stakeholder influence

Communication

Education

Master's degree in HR/Business

Professional HR certification (e.g., SHRM-SCP, SAHRM)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent organization in the financial services sector located in the heart of Cape Town, Western Cape , is seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Human Resources. This executive role is responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive HR strategies that align with the company's business objectives. You will oversee all HR functions, including talent management, employee relations, compensation and benefits, organizational development, and HR compliance. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of HR best practices, and the ability to drive positive change within the organization. This is a vital leadership position contributing to the strategic direction and success of the company in Cape Town .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute HR strategies aligned with the organization's mission and goals.
• Oversee all aspects of human resources operations, including recruitment, onboarding, training, performance management, and offboarding.
• Manage employee relations, ensuring a fair and productive work environment.
• Design and administer competitive compensation and benefits programs.
• Drive organizational development initiatives, including change management and leadership development.
• Ensure compliance with all labor laws and regulations in South Africa.
• Develop and implement HR policies and procedures.
• Lead and mentor the HR team, fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.
• Manage HR budget and resource allocation effectively.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to the executive team on all HR-related matters.

Requirements

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in Human Resources, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., HR Manager, Director, Head of HR).
• Proven experience in developing and implementing HR strategies within complex organizations.
• In-depth knowledge of all HR functions, including talent management, compensation & benefits, employee relations, and L&D.
• Strong understanding of South African labor law and HR best practices.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to drive change and influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience in the financial services industry is highly desirable.
• Master's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Professional HR certification (e.g., SHRM-SCP, SAHRM) is a plus.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Cape Town, Western Cape.

Benefits

• Highly competitive executive salary package, commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive bonus structure.
• Executive-level medical aid
• Generous retirement fund contribution
• Substantial annual leave

You will have unparalleled opportunities for strategic impact and professional growth within a leading financial institution. This role offers the chance to lead and shape the HR function in a dynamic environment in Cape Town , contributing to the long-term success of the organization and its employees.