HR Business Partner

Department: People & CultureLocation: JohannesburgDescriptionAre you ready to take the lead on people initiatives in a growing, people-first business?123 Consulting are a people-first accounting and advisory firm based in Johannesburg and Somerset West. They are proud to be part of the Sumer Group, a leading accountancy practice across the UK and Ireland.Here at 123, we believe in building long-term relationships with clients and giving our people the chance to thrive in a supportive, professional environment that values initiative, collaboration, and integrity.The RoleWe’re looking for a confident and compassionate People & Culture (HR) Business Partner to join our team, someone who can bring structure, insight, and meaningful engagement to the employee experience.You’ll be based in our Johannesburg office, and will partner with two parts of our organisation:Sumer Offshore Services (SOS) – a fast-scaling offshore support business that supports the UK and Ireland.123 Consulting – a well-established accounting and consulting hub with strong foundations.Together, we’re growing at pace. Your work will influence employee experience, engagement, and compliance across the entire employee lifecycle, the majority of your focus will be spent on rapidly expanding SOS team.You will report to the People & Culture Director based in the UK, whilst working closely and collaboratively with the Managing Director at 123 Consulting, so being adaptable to how you communicate and build working relationships is key. You will also work in collaboration with our People & Culture Business Partners across the UK and Ireland, sharing best practice and driving efficiencies. You’ll take the lead on any key initiatives that require roll out to your areas of the organisation. The role offers variety, and the chance to shape how people and culture work at scale, this could be your ideal next step.Key Responsibilities:Act as a trusted partner to leadership, advising on all people-related mattersLead employee relations, performance management, and policy developmentSupport the full employee lifecycle: induction, development, engagement, and exitBuild strong, supportive relationships with stakeholders and employeesEnsure compliance through utilising employment law and internal HR policiesBring a critical eye to existing processes and recommend improvementsHelp shape and uphold an inclusive, values-led cultureContribute to diversity and transformation efforts across the wider People and Culture community across the Sumer GroupAbout YouSkills & Experience:A strong understanding of employment law and employee relationsProven experience acting as a credible and approachable HR professionalConfidence to lead courageous conversations, handling them with empathy and professionalismExperience within professional services is beneficialExcellent interpersonal skills – you’re a critical friend, a coach, and a trusted voiceBelong @ SumerAt Sumer, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse work environment, not just as buzzwords, but as the heartbeat of our team. Our recruitment practices reflect this commitment, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds. We prioritise creating an environment where every candidate feels respected and supported throughout the hiring process.Everyone is unique and we understand that each individual may have distinct needs to showcase their best selves during interviews. Our commitment is to offer personalised support for all candidates. Let our team know how we can bring out your fullest potential.