IR Officer

SUMMARY:
We’re seeking a dynamic and skilled Industrial Relations Officer to foster positive employee relations, ensure legal compliance, and expertly manage industrial disputes. You’ll represent the company at the CCMA and lead Employment Equity initiatives. You will use your skills in dispute resolution, communication, and negotiation to maintain a positive workplace. If you're ready to make a significant impact in a forward-thinking organisation, we'd love to hear from you!

POSITION INFO:
Minimum Requirements:

• Diploma/Degree in HR/Labour Relations.
• Advanced Microsoft Suite.
• Skills in negotiation, mediation, and arbitration.
• An understanding of specific labour relations needs and challenges related to the company’s business strategy.
• A track record of delivery in the planning and execution of employee relations initiatives, with the ability to lead, motivate, and gain the commitment of others in fostering strong employee-employer relationships.
• Proven experience in managing employee relations, grievances, and negotiations.
• Demonstrated ability and experience in representing organisations in legal and industrial relations hearings.
• Experience representing the company in CCMA matters, including conciliation and arbitration hearings.

• Strengths in situational leadership, ethics, problem-solving, strategic thinking, and cultural competency.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Ability to work independently, prioritise tasks, and manage time effectively.
• Industrial relations focus that is responsive to contemporary issues.
• Integrity, confidentiality, and the ability to work with a diverse group of people.

• The ability to settle labour-management disputes through mediation and resolution, rather than costly court battles.
• Manage the effective implementation of grievance procedures and the disciplinary code.
• Hear grievances from employees and ensure they are resolved.

• Implementing retrenchment/separation agreements for the company as instructed by the Group Head of HR, ensuring compliance with the law and preventing CCMA cases due to incorrect processing.
• Representing the company professionally at various dispute resolution forums (CCMA).
• Ensuring legislative compliance by implementing adherence to applicable legislation and conditions of service.
• Professional development of meeting minutes using the designated template, with feedback provided until all actions are completed.
• Responsible for updating weekly and monthly IR reports to the Group Head of HR.

• Ensuring the delivery of strategic action plans related to the Group HR strategy within the HR/IR department.
• Consolidating records of all CCMA procedures, disciplinary actions, grievances, and union membership for the Group Head of HR.
• Supporting the Human Resources department and line management in managing relationships between employees and management.

• Full participation in the implementation of an effective Employment Equity Committee.
• Contributing to job classification by understanding current practices within the group, including wages, salaries, working hours, and shift requirements.
• Ensuring adequate training for members of the Employment Equity Committee.
• Facilitating the development of diversity and inclusion through the Employment Equity Committee.
• Staying updated on labour laws, regulations, and industry trends to ensure compliance with all applicable legal requirements.

• Develop, implement, and review HR policies and procedures to ensure compliance with labour laws and maintain harmonious employee relations.
• Provide guidance and advice to management and employees on matters related to rights, disciplinary actions, performance management, and conflict resolution.
• Conduct investigations into employee complaints, facilitate resolutions, and recommend appropriate actions.
• Liaise with relevant stakeholders, such as union representatives, the labour department, and legal counsel, to manage and resolve industrial disputes effectively.

• Weekly Return to Work Interviews (RTWI) report every Friday morning.
• Monthly Disciplinary Report and Monthly Grievance Report in PowerPoint presentation for the Group.
• Annual Employment Equity reporting and submission.

• Represent the company in CCMA matters, including attending conciliation and arbitration hearings on behalf of the organisation.
• Develop and maintain Employment Equity plans, including conducting workforce analysis, setting goals, and monitoring progress.
• Develop and implement employee communication strategies to promote understanding, transparency, and positive employee relations.
• Plan and coordinate employee engagement initiatives such as town hall meetings, employee forums, and feedback mechanisms.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records related to employee relations activities, grievances, disputes, and resolutions.