HR Operations Manager

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Wellness programs

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 in East London, Eastern Cape, seeks an experienced HR Operations Manager to oversee day-to-day HR services and lead a dedicated HR team. The role requires strong operational management, HR policy implementation, and a solid grasp of SA labor laws.

You will drive efficiency, ensure compliance, and shape the employee experience across the organization. The successful candidate will have 8+ years in HR with at least 4 years in a management capacity, and proven expertise in payroll,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Master's degree or relevant professional HR qualification is highly desirable.
• At least 8 years HR experience including 4+ years in a management/operational leadership role.
• Proven experience in HR operations: payroll, benefits, HRIS and employee relations.
• Deep knowledge of South African labor law and HR compliance requirements.
• Strong leadership and team management, with excellent communication and analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee HR operations including payroll, benefits, HRIS, and record-keeping.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the HR operations team to high performance.
• Develop, implement and enforce HR policies ensuring legal compliance.
• Manage the HR budget and cost-effective delivery of services.
• Drive continuous improvement to enhance efficiency and service quality.
• Serve as a primary advisor on complex employee relations matters.

Skills

Leadership

Payroll management

Employee relations

Strategic thinking

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in HRM/BA/related

Master's degree or HR qualification

Tools

HRIS software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in the logistics sector based in the bustling port city of East London, Eastern Cape , is actively seeking an experienced and dynamic HR Operations Manager. This critical role is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day HR operations, ensuring efficient and effective HR service delivery across the organization. The HR Operations Manager will lead a team of HR professionals, manage HR systems, and implement HR policies and procedures to support business objectives. The ideal candidate will possess strong operational management skills, a deep understanding of HR best practices, and a proven ability to drive efficiency and compliance. This is an excellent opportunity to lead HR operations in a key strategic location for our client in the Eastern Cape and contribute to the company's ongoing success and growth. You will be instrumental in shaping HR service delivery and ensuring a seamless employee experience for our workforce.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all HR operational functions, including payroll, benefits administration, HRIS management, and employee record-keeping.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the HR operations team to ensure high performance and service quality.
• Develop, implement, and enforce HR policies and procedures across the organization, ensuring compliance with labor laws.
• Manage the HR budget and ensure cost-effective delivery of HR services.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within HR operations to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
• Act as a key point of contact for complex employee relations issues and provide expert advice.
• Ensure the smooth running of the performance management and talent management processes.
• Oversee compliance with all relevant South African labor legislation and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with other HR functions (e.g., talent acquisition, L&D) to ensure integrated HR service delivery.
• Manage vendor relationships related to HR operations (e.g., payroll providers, benefits administrators).

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Human Resources Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A Master's degree or relevant professional HR qualification is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive HR experience, with at least 4 years in a management or operational leadership role.
• Proven experience in managing HR operations, including payroll, benefits, HRIS, and employee relations.
• In-depth knowledge of South African labor law and HR compliance requirements.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop staff.
• Excellent strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Proficiency in HRIS software and HR analytics tools.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in the logistics or manufacturing industry is a plus.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment, balancing office-based and remote responsibilities.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive salary package, including a performance-related bonus, comprehensive medical aid, and a robust retirement fund. We believe in investing in our employees' growth and provide excellent opportunities for professional development and further training. You will join a well-respected organization in East London , Eastern Cape , known for its commitment to its workforce. Benefits also include generous leave allowances and access to wellness programs. This hybrid role allows for a blend of in-office collaboration and remote flexibility, situated in the dynamic environment of East London .