Lead HR Generalist - Operations (Remote)

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Premium medical aid

Retirement fund contribution

Generous paid time off

Professional development opportunities

Attendance at key industry events

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Lead HR Generalist to steer operational HR across a remote-first setup. You will shape HR strategies, develop policies, oversee onboarding and training, and partner with leadership to drive engagement and performance.

The role demands 8+ years in HR with 3+ years in a leadership capacity, strong knowledge of SA labour law, and excellence in HRIS/Data analytics. A remote, distributed team is supported with strategic HR initiatives.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of progressive HR experience with 3+ years in leadership or senior generalist roles.
• Experience managing operational HR functions for remote or distributed teams.
• Master's degree in HR/BA or related field; professional certification is a plus (SHRM-CP/SCP or HRMP).
• In-depth knowledge of South African labour law and HR best practices.
• Proven ability to develop and implement effective HR strategies.
• Strong leadership, coaching, and influencing skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proficiency with HRIS and data analysis tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day HR operations with a focus on operational support.
• Develop and implement HR policies and procedures aligned to business needs.
• Oversee onboarding, training, and development programs.
• Manage employee relations, including conflict resolution and disciplinary actions.
• Partner with leaders to understand workforce needs and craft strategic HR solutions.
• Drive talent management, performance, succession, and development initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with South African labour laws and regulations.
• Utilize HR analytics to identify trends and inform decisions.
• Foster a positive, inclusive environment to boost engagement and retention.
• Lead remote HR projects from conception to completion.

Skills

Leadership

HR strategy

Employee relations

HR analytics

Communication

Stakeholder management

HRIS

Remote work

Education

Master's degree in HR/Business Administration

SHRM-CP/SCP or HRMP certification (plus)

Tools

HRIS systems

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding organization, is seeking a seasoned and strategic Lead HR Generalist to spearhead their operational HR functions. This role is designed for a leader who thrives in a fully remote setting and can provide comprehensive HR support to operational teams across different locations. You will be responsible for overseeing critical HR processes, ensuring compliance, driving employee engagement, and supporting talent development initiatives. As a remote-first company, we empower our employees with the flexibility and resources needed to excel. This position requires a strong understanding of operational HR challenges, excellent leadership capabilities, and a passion for building a high-performing workforce. The Lead HR Generalist will play a pivotal role in shaping HR strategies that support our business objectives and foster a culture of excellence and collaboration. This is a fantastic opportunity to influence HR direction and make a significant impact in a growing organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the day-to-day operations of the HR department, with a focus on operational HR support.
• Develop and implement HR policies and procedures that align with business needs and ensure compliance.
• Oversee employee onboarding, training, and development programs to foster a skilled and engaged workforce.
• Manage employee relations issues, including conflict resolution, disciplinary actions, and grievance procedures.
• Partner with business leaders to understand workforce needs and develop strategic HR solutions.
• Drive talent management initiatives, including performance management, succession planning, and career development.
• Ensure compliance with all South African labour laws and regulations.
• Utilize HR analytics to identify trends, measure HR effectiveness, and inform strategic decisions.
• Champion a positive and inclusive work environment that promotes employee engagement and retention.
• Manage HR projects and initiatives from conception to completion in a remote setting.

Requirements

• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in Human Resources, with at least 3 years in a leadership or senior generalist role.
• Demonstrated experience in managing operational HR functions, preferably within a remote or distributed team.
• Master's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field; a relevant professional certification (e.g., SHRM-CP/SCP, HRMP) is a plus.
• In-depth knowledge of South African labour law and HR best practices.
• Proven ability to develop and implement effective HR strategies.
• Strong leadership, coaching, and influencing skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proficiency in HRIS systems and data analysis tools.
• Self-starter with a strong ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a remote environment.
• Strategic thinker with a results-oriented approach.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package. As this is a fully remote position, you will enjoy the ultimate flexibility and autonomy in managing your work environment. Benefits include premium medical aid, a generous retirement fund contribution, and substantial paid time off. We are committed to your professional growth, offering opportunities for advanced training, certifications, and attendance at key industry events. You will be part of a collaborative and innovative team, leveraging modern HR technology and contributing to the strategic direction of the company. This role provides significant autonomy and the chance to lead impactful HR initiatives from anywhere in the world, making it an ideal opportunity for experienced HR professionals seeking a challenging and rewarding remote career.