Labour Relations jobs in South Africa

Job Title : Manager : Labour Relations

Are you a seasoned labour relations and transformation professional with a passion for driving equitable workplaces and meaningful organisational change?

Our client is looking for a strategic and dynamic manager to lead their labour relations and transformation agenda.

In this role, you will ensure legal compliance, champion fair labour practices, and drive the successful implementation of our Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) and Employment Equity (EE) frameworks, shaping a positive and inclusive organisational culture.

• Policy and strategy: Develop and implement labour relations policies aligned with South African legislation and the organisation's values.
• Dispute resolution: Provide expert guidance on internal investigations, disciplinary processes, grievances, conciliations, arbitrations, and labour court matters.
• Stakeholder engagement: Build and maintain strong, constructive relationships with trade unions and employee representatives to foster harmonious industrial relations.
• Representation & negotiation: Represent the organisation effectively in CCMA and bargaining council proceedings, balancing advocacy with fair outcomes.
• Compliance & risk mitigation: Monitor labour legislation, advise on potential risks, and ensure proactive compliance.

• Strategic transformation: Develop and execute a company-wide transformation strategy aligned with the B-BBEE Codes of Good Practice.
• B-BBEE compliance: Lead internal processes for B-BBEE verification and collaborate with verification agencies to ensure accurate, timely audits.
• Employment equity: Oversee EE reporting to the Department of Labour, providing analysis and actionable insights on progress.
• Inclusivity champion: Chair the Employment Equity Committee, driving initiatives across employment equity, preferential procurement, skills development, and other B-BBEE pillars.

• Trusted advisor: Provide expert guidance to leadership on labour legislation, transformation, and compliance.
• Data-driven insights: Analyse labour relations and EE data to identify trends, inform decisions, and support strategy.
• Communication & training: Deliver clear, engaging internal communications and training programs on transformation and employee relations best practices.

• LLB (or equivalent).

• Minimum 5 years senior / managerial experience in labour relations and transformation.

• Deep knowledge of South African labour legislation (BCEA, LRA, EE Act, Skills Development Act, B-BBEE Codes) and proven experience representing organisations at CCMA, labour court, and bargaining councils.

• Fluent in Afrikaans and English; Setswana is a strong advantage.

• Exceptional negotiation, mediation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
• Ability to inspire teams and engage diverse stakeholders.
• High emotional intelligence, discretion, and ethical judgment.
• Strategic, analytical thinking with data-driven decision-making.
• Organisational excellence with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

This is a unique opportunity to shape a fair, inclusive, and legally compliant workplace while driving transformation in a progressive South African organisation.

You will be at the forefront of fostering meaningful change and influencing culture at every level.