Employee Relations Manager

Join Our High Performing ER Centre of Excellence – Global FMCG BrandBased in Gauteng with Travel RequirementsAre you a passionate Employee Relations (ER) professional with a proven record of driving excellence and compliance. Our client is seeking a dynamic Employee Relations Manager to join their esteemed Centre of Excellence. This role is pivotal in shaping and delivering best-in-class ER strategies, ensuring compliance, and fostering a harmonious workplace culture.Role ProfileAs the ER Manager, you will play a critical role in driving excellence within a high-performing Centre of Excellence by shaping and implementing impactful Employee Relations strategies. Leveraging your extensive experience and expertise, you will ensure organisational compliance with evolving labor legislation, support a harmonious workplace culture, and foster strong relationships across all levels of the business.Key ResponsibilitiesDrive Employee Relations by providing efficient, effective specialist services, contributing to a centre of excellence within the HR function.Develop and implement robust ER policies aligned with Group HR strategy and evolving business needs.Monitor and interpret labour legislation developments, implementing strategies to ensure compliance and mitigate risk.Build and nurture excellent relationships with all stakeholders, including management, employees, employee representatives, and shop stewards.Critically assess and apply relevant laws, regulations, codes, and ordinances relating to employer obligations.Evaluate and refine labour models (insourcing, outsourcing, hybrid, etc.), developing strategies to establish a best-in-class operating model and structure.Leverage leading-edge technology, research, and processes to provide innovative ER solutions.Identify and lead the implementation of cutting-edge technologies and practices in ER.Continuously benchmark against best practice, seeking new opportunities for team and capability development.Hold an HR Business Partner (HRBP) role and possess proven experience in HRBP responsibilities, particularly within Employee Relations, to effectively contribute to the function's objectives.Role RequirementsA post graduate degree in Labour Relations and/or HR or equivalent - A labour law degree would be advantageous.Minimum 8 years’ experience in Employee Relations, with a solid track record in problem-solving at operational, tactical and strategic level.Proven track records of mediations, conciliations and arbitration management including strong negotiation and sound presentation skills. Demonstrable experience at regional and/or global level within a Centre of Excellence or similar environment.Deep understanding of HR trends, best practices, and up-to-date knowledge of relevant labour legislation (e.g. Basic Conditions of Employment Act, Labour Relations Act, Employment Equity Act, etc.).Demonstrated expertise in industrial and employee relations, with a strong and consistent record of positive outcomes in CCMA proceedings.Proven ability to represent the company effectively in dispute resolution processes, achieving successful results at both the CCMA and Labour Court where required.Strong business acumen and experience in delivering effective, sustainable employee relations solutions.High level of computer literacy and technological savvy, including proficiency with MS Office and HR Information Systems (e.g. SAP).Why Apply?If you are passionate about shaping workplace culture, driving meaningful change, and leveraging innovative practices in Employee Relations, this is the opportunity for you.Join a dynamic team committed to excellence and continuous development in a forward-thinking environment.Grow your career in a multicultural environment with exposure to international colleagues and leadership.If you are ready to elevate your ER career within a world-class Centre of Excellence, we would love to hear from you. Apply now to join a collaborative and forward-thinking team!