Employee Relations Specialist

SUMMARY:
We invite suitable qualified and experienced candidates to apply for the Employee Relations Specialist role for our client in the Automotive Industry, based in Port Elizabeth.

POSITION INFO:
The Employee Relations Specialist oversees labor relations, ensuring compliance with legal standards and promoting effective collaboration between management, employees, and trade unions.

This position necessitates a strong understanding of South African labor laws, collective bargaining, and the automotive manufacturing sector.

The role involves managing external labor litigation within the Dispute Resolution Centre of MIBCO and cases referred to the CCMA. Additionally, familiarity with Employment Equity and a comprehensive understanding of risks throughout the employment life cycle, from onboarding to termination, is essential.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in labour law, Human Resources, Industrial Relations, or a related field.
• A postgraduate qualification in Employment Law or previously admitted labour law attorney is advantageous.
  
• Minimum 5–8 years of experience in Employee Relations within the manufacturing sector, preferably automotive.
• Proven experience working with trade unions and handling collective bargaining processes.
• Strong understanding of South African labour laws and dispute resolution mechanisms.
• Experience in handling CCMA cases, arbitrations, and disciplinary processes.

• Maintain constructive relationships with trade unions through effective communication and collaboration.
• Facilitate wage negotiations, dispute resolutions, and grievance handling in accordance with labour laws.
• Represent the company in union-related engagements such as disciplinary hearings, CCMA cases, and bargaining councils.
• Monitor and advise management on changes in labour laws, union demands, and industry trends.

• Ensure compliance with the Labour Relations Act, Basic Conditions of Employment Act, Employment Equity Act, and industry agreements.
• Provide legal guidance on employment contracts, dismissals, unfair labour practices, and company policies.
• Assist in managing disputes, mediations, and arbitrations, mitigating risks for the company.

• Implement strategies to improve employee morale and resolve workplace conflicts.
• Develop and oversee engagement programs that promote positive industrial relations.
• Provide training to managers and supervisors on labour laws, dispute handling, and best HR practices.
• Act as a mediator between employees and management to resolve grievances fairly and efficiently.

• Review and update employee relations policies to align with legal and industry standards.
• Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for handling disputes, disciplinary actions, and employee grievances.
• Monitor policy compliance and recommend necessary improvements.

• Work closely with production and operations teams to address labour-related issues affecting productivity.
• Ensure compliance with workplace safety and health regulations as per industry standards.
• Support HR in workforce planning, shift structuring, and overtime agreements within legal parameters.
• Engage with external stakeholders, such as industry councils and legal advisors, on employment-related matters.