HR Executive (DRC)

Vodacom; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading telecommunications firm is seeking a Head of HR to establish and scale the HR function in a start-up environment. You will build a strong organizational culture, lead recruitment efforts, and ensure compliance with local labor laws. The ideal candidate has 8+ years of HR experience, preferably in telecom or start-ups, and is fluent in both French and English.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of progressive HR experience, ideally in telecoms, infrastructure, or start-up environments.
• Proven experience in building HR functions from scratch.
• Fluent in French and English.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement the foundational HR strategy aligned with the start-up’s growth plans.
• Lead end-to-end recruitment for critical roles.
• Oversee payroll, benefits, and HR administration with lean resources.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Strong interpersonal skills

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Human Resources or Business Administration

Job description

Overview

When it comes to putting people first, we're number 1. The number 1 Top Employer in South Africa. Certified by the Top Employer Institute 2025.

Role Purpose/Business Unit

As the Head of HR, you will be responsible for building and leading the Human Resources function from the ground up in a dynamic and fast-paced start-up environment. You will be the architect of the company’s people strategy, responsible for establishing and scaling the HR function in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment. You will work closely with the founding team to build a strong organizational culture, attract and retain top talent, and ensure compliance with local labor laws. This is a hands-on leadership role ideal for someone who thrives in ambiguity and is passionate about building from scratch.

Your Responsibilities Will Include

• HR Strategy & Setup
• Design and implement the foundational HR strategy aligned with the start-up’s growth plans.
• Set up core HR systems, policies, and processes (e.g., contracts, payroll, benefits, HRIS).
• Build scalable HR infrastructure to support future expansion across the DRC.
• Talent Acquisition & Employer Branding
• Lead end-to-end recruitment for critical roles, including technical, operational, and commercial functions.
• Develop cost-effective sourcing strategies and build a strong employer brand.
• Establish onboarding processes that reflect the company’s values and mission.
• Culture & Organizational Development
• Shape and nurture a high-performance, mission-driven culture.
• Facilitate leadership alignment and team-building initiatives.
• Promote values of transparency, agility, and accountability.
• Compliance & Risk Management
• Ensure full compliance with DRC labor laws and employment regulations.
• Manage employee relations and mitigate HR-related risks.
• Liaise with legal and finance teams to ensure proper documentation and governance.
• People Operations
• Oversee payroll, benefits, and HR administration with lean resources.
• Implement performance management systems and feedback loops.
• Support compensation benchmarking and equity planning.
• Performance & Change Management
• Implement performance management frameworks and KPIs.
• Lead change management initiatives to support organizational transformation.
• Support leadership in managing transitions, restructures, and growth phases.

The Ideal Candidate For This Role Will Have

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field.
• 8+ years of progressive HR experience, ideally in telecoms, infrastructure, or start-up environments.
• Proven experience in building HR functions from scratch.
• Strong understanding of labor laws and HR practices in the DRC or similar markets.
• Fluent in French and English.
• Experience setting up HR functions from scratch.

Key Competencies

• Strategic thinking and execution
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Cultural sensitivity and adaptability
• Leadership and influence
• Problem-solving and decision-making

Closing date for Applications: 16 October 2025.

The base location for this role is Kinshasa, DRC.

The company's approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply.

Vodacom is committed to an organisational culture that recognises, appreciates, and values diversity & inclusion.