Senior Employee Relations Manager

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Company vehicle

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 in Klerksdorp, North West, seeks a Senior Employee Relations Manager to lead proactive ER strategy, advise management on complex issues, and drive a fair, compliant workplace aligned with South African labour laws.

You will investigate, manage disciplinary processes, negotiate with unions, and build trust across the organization while mitigating risks. Mining or heavy industry experience is highly preferred.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in HRM, Labour Law, Industrial Psychology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in employee relations and labour law.
• Proven experience in conducting complex investigations and managing disciplinary processes.
• Strong knowledge of SA labour legislation (LRA, BCEA, EEA) and collective bargaining.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive employee relations strategies and policies.
• Lead and manage complex employee relations investigations, disciplinary hearings, and grievances.
• Provide expert advice to management on ER matters and labour law compliance.
• Facilitate conflict resolution and mediation to settle disputes amicably.
• Ensure consistent application of HR policies across the organization.
• Collaborate with trade unions and employee representatives on relevant matters.
• Monitor SA labour legislation and case law and advise on implications.
• Develop and deliver ER training programs for managers.
• Promote a positive culture and enhance employee engagement.
• Manage ER risks and advise on mitigation strategies.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Negotiation

Conflict resolution

Labour law knowledge

Education

Master's degree in HRM / Labour Law / Industrial Psychology

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a large and reputable industrial conglomerate based in Klerksdorp, North West , is actively seeking a highly experienced and adept Senior Employee Relations Manager. This critical position will lead the development and implementation of proactive employee relations strategies aimed at fostering a positive and productive workplace culture. The Senior ER Manager will be responsible for advising management on complex employee relations issues, conducting thorough investigations, managing disciplinary processes, and ensuring compliance with all South African labour laws. This is an unparalleled opportunity for a seasoned professional to make a substantial impact on organizational stability and employee satisfaction within a major industry player. You will be the key advocate for fair and consistent HR practices, building trust and maintaining open communication channels across the organization. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional negotiation, mediation, and conflict resolution skills, combined with a strong ethical compass and strategic foresight. We are seeking a leader who can navigate challenging situations with diplomacy and resolve, ensuring a harmonious work environment in Klerksdorp . Your expertise will be vital in mitigating risks and promoting a culture of respect and accountability. This role requires a deep understanding of industrial relations and collective bargaining.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive employee relations strategies and policies.
• Lead and manage complex employee relations investigations, disciplinary hearings, and grievances.
• Provide expert advice and counsel to management on employee relations matters and labour law compliance.
• Facilitate conflict resolution and mediation processes to ensure amicable dispute settlement.
• Ensure consistent application of HR policies and procedures across the organization.
• Collaborate with trade unions and employee representatives on relevant matters.
• Monitor and interpret South African labour legislation and case law, advising on implications.
• Develop and deliver training programs on employee relations best practices to managers.
• Promote a positive organizational culture and enhance employee engagement.
• Manage risks associated with employee relations and advise on mitigation strategies.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Human Resources Management, Labour Law, Industrial Psychology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in employee relations and labour law.
• Demonstrated expertise in conducting complex investigations and managing disciplinary processes.
• In-depth knowledge of South African labour legislation, including the LRA, BCEA, and EEA.
• Proven experience in collective bargaining and managing trade union relationships.
• Exceptional mediation, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage sensitive situations with integrity.
• Experience within the mining or heavy industry sector is highly preferred.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive executive salary package, including performance bonuses, a company vehicle, comprehensive medical aid, and a generous retirement fund. Employees in Klerksdorp, North West , will work in a challenging yet rewarding environment with significant opportunities for professional growth and development within a leading industrial group. The company is committed to employee well-being and provides access to advanced facilities and resources. This role offers a chance to shape employee relations strategies at the highest level, contributing to the long-term success and stability of the organization.