HR Manager Middle East & Africa

Gunnebo Safe Storage; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A global security solutions provider is seeking an HR Manager for the MEA region to lead HR and payroll functions. This role involves aligning HR strategies with business objectives, fostering an inclusive workplace, and driving sustainable practices. Candidates should possess a degree in Human Resources, relevant HR experience, and strong interpersonal skills. A proactive approach is crucial to support managers and enhance employee experience across multiple countries.

Benefits

Employee benefits

Training and development programs

Positive workplace culture

Qualifications

• Recognised HR qualification such as degree in Human Resources, SABPP certification, CIPD, SHRM, or equivalent.
• Proven experience managing multi-country payroll and HR operations.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills required.

Responsibilities

• Lead the full HR and Payroll function for the MEA Region.
• Partner with management to align HR strategies with business goals.
• Manage the end-to-end recruitment process consistently.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Strategic thinking

Problem-solving

Coaching

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Human Resources or equivalent accreditation

Tools

HRIS systems

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Overview

Do you want to be part of creating a safer world? Without thinking about it, you meet us in your everyday life – at home, in transit, and at work. We are at the airport, where you commute, where you work, play and shop. Diverse in our offering, our customer outreach and in our mindset, Gunnebo is leading the transformation of the security business through digitalisation and connectivity for the continuous developments of smart entrance control and safe storage solutions.

If you are passionate about being part of an exciting transformation journey working with a global, multi-cultural and highly motivated organisation, this is the opportunity for you. Gunnebo Safe Storage is small enough to see your ideas come to fruition, and big enough to realise your career goals.

Role Overview

The HR Manager for the MEA Region will lead the full Human Resources and Payroll function for all entities within the region, with the head office based in Dubai. This position is responsible for aligning HR strategies with business objectives, ensuring operational excellence, and maintaining compliance with UAE labour laws and other regional regulations and laws.

The role will champion culture, learning, and Employer Brand initiatives, acting as an ambassador for employee experience and Gunnebo organisational values across the MEA region - in addition to core HR responsibilities, the role will serve as the regional Sustainability Champion, driving initiatives that promote employee wellbeing, inclusion, and sustainable business practices across the MEA region.

Responsibilities

• Strategic HR Management: Partner with management to understand business goals and translate them into effective people strategies across the MEA region.
• Manage the end-to-end recruitment process, ensuring alignment with company standards and regional legal requirements.
• Develop and improve HR policies and procedures consistent with UAE Labour laws, DAFZA (free zone) regulations, South African Labour Laws, and any other applicable MEA country requirements.
• Ensure organizational structures, job descriptions, and grading frameworks support current and future business needs.
• Lead onboarding and induction programs to ensure a consistent employee experience across all locations.
• Coaches and supports managers on HR processes, performance management, employee relations, and people-development practices to ensure consistent application and fair decision-making.
• Acts as an Employer Brand ambassador, promoting the company’s values and culture, and strengthening Gunnebo’s reputation as an employer of choice across the MEA region.

• Employee Relations & Performance Management
  • Serve as a trusted advisor to management and employees on HR-related matters, ensuring fair and consistent resolution of performance and disciplinary issues.
  • Manage and facilitate performance appraisal cycles, development plans, and succession initiatives.
  • Promote a positive and inclusive workplace culture that aligns with Gunnebo’s core values.
  • Support conflict resolution, grievance handling, and employee engagement activities.

• Compensation, Payroll & Compliance
  • Manage monthly payroll administration MEA regional entities, ensuring accuracy, confidentiality, and compliance with local laws. (Bayzat payroll in UAE and Sage in South Africa)
  • Oversee the management of employee benefits, gratuity, end-of-service settlements, and assist with visa renewals.
  • Maintain compliance with MOHRE, DAFZA free zone authorities, South African BCEA and other regulatory bodies within the region.
  • Stay up to date on labour law changes across MEA countries and ensure company policies are updated accordingly.

• Learning, Development & Sustainability
  • Design, and deliver training and development programs to enhance skills, leadership capabilities, and career growth.
  • Drives a learning and high-performance culture, encouraging continuous development, knowledge sharing, and employee engagement.
  • Act as the Sustainability Champion for the region by:
    • Integrating sustainable practices into HR processes and office operations.
    • Promoting employee wellbeing and mental health initiatives.
    • Driving community engagement and environmental responsibility programs.
  • Support regional and corporate ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals through measurable initiatives.

Requirements

• Recognised HR qualification such as degree in Human Resources, SABPP certification, CIPD, SHRM, or equivalent HR accreditation, combined with relevant experience.
• Proven experience managing multi-country payroll and HR operations.
• Strong understanding of HR legislation, regulations, and best practices.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage effectively across all levels and cultures.
• Strong command of written and spoken English required; additional languages in the MEA region are an advantage.
• Proficiency in HRIS systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Demonstrated strategic thinking, analytical, and problem-solving ability.
• High degree of integrity, confidentiality, and professionalism.
• A proactive approach and the ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Strong coaching and advisory skills with the ability to support and influence managers and employees at all levels.
• Passionate about sustainability, inclusion, and continuous improvement.
• Gunnebo is operating in the security sector, and all offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory background and reference checks.

Main KPIs

• Payroll & Compliance
• Talents – Develop to Grow, Retain & Perform, Hiring of Great People
• Alignment of Workforce Plans with Business Goals – Getting Ready for the Future
• Employee Wellbeing – Thrive in a Positive Workplace

About Us

The Gunnebo Group is a global leader in security offering innovative products and services to protect and control the flow of people, and to safely secure valuables. Through our businesses Gunnebo Entrance Control and Gunnebo Safe Storage we offer solutions to customers in retail, public transport, public and commercial buildings, industrial and high-risk sites, and banking. We operate worldwide through our 3,400 employees, 25 country locations and 10 production facilities to serve customers in over 100 markets. Together we create a safer world.

Gunnebo Safe Storage specializes in certified physical security solutions. Whether this is to safely secure valuables, cash, private or business critical possessions from burglary, fire, and explosion, or to provide industries with customized solutions for specific storing needs, such as pharmaceuticals or luxury products - we provide peace of mind at home, in transit and at work.

Diversity Statement

Gunnebo Safe Storage is an equal opportunity employer. We know that great minds don’t think alike, and it takes all kinds of minds to make our products so unique. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and employment decisions are made without regards to race, colour, religion, origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, or any other dimension of diversity