Group HR Manager

Umhlanga Support Office

Purpose of the Role:

The Group HR Manager is responsible for providing strategic HR leadership and full oversight of HR operations, payroll, compliance, and governance across multiple African countries, including Botswana, South Africa, Lesotho, Zambia, and other Sub-Saharan regions. The role ensures alignment with corporate HR strategies while managing local legislative requirements, workforce planning, talent management, and HR best practices.

Key Responsibilities:

  • HR Strategy And Governance

    • Develop and implement regional HR strategies aligned with corporate objectives.

    • Ensure compliance with local labor laws, immigration policies, and industry regulations.

    • Standardize HR policies, SOPs, and best practices across all countries.

    • Monitor HR risks and implement mitigation strategies.

  • Payroll and HR Administration

    • Oversee payroll administration for 7+ African countries, ensuring accuracy and compliance.

    • Manage expatriate payroll, tax, and immigration compliance.

    • Ensure timely submission of statutory reports (tax, social security, labor filings).

    • Maintain and audit employee records in accordance with legal and corporate standards.

  • Talent Management and Workforce Planning

    • Lead recruitment and onboarding on HR operational sites

    • In partnership with Group Talent Manager drive succession planning for key roles.

    • In partnership with Group Talent Manager implement performance management and career development frameworks and drive leadership development

    • Foster and implement employee engagement initiatives.

    • Analyze workforce trends and recommend strategic interventions.

  • Employee Relations and Compliance

    • Working with in-country HR Officers and legal partners:

    • Resolve complex employee relations issues, including disciplinary actions and grievances.

    • Advise management on labor law compliance and industrial relations.

    • Maintain relationships with labor unions, government bodies, and regulatory agencies.

    • Ensure fair and consistent application of HR policies.

  • HR Operations and Systems

    • Optimize HR processes and digital tools (HRIS, payroll systems, Talent Appraisal System).

    • Implement workforce analytics to support decision-making.

    • In partnership with the risk department facilitate relevant HR audits and ensure corrective actions where necessary.

  • Leadership and Stakeholder Management

    • Coach and mentor HR teams across different countries.

    • Collaborate with senior leadership to align HR initiatives with business goals.

    • Represent HR in cross-functional and regional leadership forums.

Required Qualifications and Experience:

  • Education
    Bachelor’s, Honours or Master’s degree in HR Management, Business Administration, or related field.

  • Certifications
    HR professional certification (e.g., SHRM, CIPD) is advantageous.

  • Experience
    Minimum 7-8 years in HR leadership, with at least 5 years in a multi-country HR role.
    Proven track record in payroll management, compliance, and HR governance.
    Experience in Sub-Saharan Africa labor laws and workforce dynamics.

Other Requirements:

  • Valid driver’s license.

  • Willingness to travel across Africa

  • Medical Aid is compulsory

  • Valid passport

  • Willingness to ensure certain entry vaccinations (Yellow Fever).

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