IR Officer

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 companys 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.

Personality Traits:

• 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.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• 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.

Skilled Application of IR Principles:

• 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.

Industrial Relations Strategy Implementation:

• 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 Employment Equity Committee:

• 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.

Compliance and Policy Development:

• 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/Monthly Reporting for IR Matters for the Group:

• 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.

Employee Relations:

• 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.