Senior Employment Law Advisor

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24, on behalf of a leading financial services organization with significant operations in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, seeks a Senior Employment Law Advisor to provide expert counsel on all employment law matters.

The role is hybrid, combining in-office collaboration with remote flexibility, and offers opportunities to shape policy, lead investigations, and guide HR and line managers through complex disputes.

Qualifications

• Admitted Attorney with 6+ years post-qualification experience in employment law.
• Deep knowledge of South African labour legislation and case law.
• Proven experience representing employers in CCMA and bargaining council disputes.
• Excellent drafting, negotiation and advocacy skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Hybrid work setting with ability to manage multiple priorities.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice on all employment law matters including disputes.
• Draft and update contracts, policies, and staff handbooks for compliance.
• Conduct internal investigations and advise on disciplinary measures.
• Represent the organisation in CCMA and bargaining councils proceedings.
• Develop and deliver training on employment law for HR and managers.
• Advise on Labour Relations Act, BCEA, Skills Development Act, etc.
• Mitigate employment-related risks through proactive guidance.
• Stay abreast of changes in employment law and case law.
• Collaborate with HR and business leaders to align strategy.
• Negotiate and draft settlement agreements in disputes.

Skills

Employment law expertise

Legal drafting

Negotiation

Analytical thinking

Stakeholder management

Education

Admitted Attorney

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading financial services organization with significant operations in Mossel Bay, Western Cape , is seeking to appoint a highly qualified Senior Employment Law Advisor . This pivotal role will be responsible for providing expert legal counsel and strategic guidance on all aspects of employment law across the organization. The ideal candidate will possess deep knowledge of South African labour legislation, extensive experience in advising on complex employee relations matters, and a proven ability to develop and implement proactive employment law strategies. This position operates on a hybrid model, offering a blend of in-office engagement for collaboration and remote flexibility. You will play a crucial role in ensuring compliance, mitigating legal risks, and fostering a positive and productive work environment. We are seeking a candidate with exceptional analytical skills, strong negotiation capabilities, and a proactive, solutions-oriented approach.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert legal advice and strategic guidance on all employment law matters, including disciplinary actions, grievances, retrenchments, and CCMA/Bargaining Council disputes.
• Draft, review, and update employment contracts, policies, procedures, and staff handbooks to ensure legal compliance and best practice.
• Conduct internal investigations into workplace misconduct and advise on appropriate disciplinary measures.
• Represent the organization in conciliation and arbitration proceedings at the CCMA and relevant bargaining councils.
• Develop and deliver training programs on employment law for HR personnel and line managers.
• Advise on the interpretation and application of the Labour Relations Act, Basic Conditions of Employment Act, Skills Development Act, and other relevant legislation.
• Manage and mitigate employment-related legal risks through proactive measures and sound advice.
• Stay abreast of legislative changes and case law developments in employment law and advise on their implications.
• Collaborate closely with HR, legal, and business unit leaders to ensure alignment on employment law strategy and execution.
• Negotiate and draft settlement agreements in employment disputes.

Requirements

• Admitted Attorney with a minimum of 6 years of post-qualification experience, specializing in employment law.
• In-depth knowledge and practical application of South African labour legislation and case law.
• Proven experience in representing employers in CCMA and bargaining council disputes.
• Demonstrated ability to provide strategic employment law advice and develop proactive solutions.
• Excellent drafting, negotiation, and advocacy skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a hybrid work setting.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and influence stakeholders.
• Proficiency in legal research and standard office productivity software.
• Experience in a financial services environment is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical aid, a provident fund, and performance-related incentives. The hybrid work arrangement supports a flexible work-life integration. You will have opportunities for professional development, including attending seminars and gaining exposure to complex legal challenges. This role provides the chance to work within a dynamic and reputable organization, contributing to its strategic success. You will be part of a supportive team environment where your expertise is highly valued, with clear pathways for career progression. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned employment law professional to make a significant impact.