Senior Human Resource Officer – Employee and Industrial Relations

The Senior Human Resource Officer ER/IR is responsible for overseeing and managing all aspects of employee and industrial relations within the company.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Senior Human Resource Officer ER/IR is responsible for overseeing and managing all aspects of employee and industrial relations within the company. This role involves developing and implementing strategies to foster a positive work environment, ensuring compliance with labour laws, and effectively managing relationships between management and employees, including union representatives. Additionally, the incumbent will lead recruitment and selection initiatives to ensure the acquisition of qualified personnel aligned with the company's objectives. This candidate is proactive, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple responsibilities efficiently.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Reviews and develops Job Descriptions and Standards of Performance for positions across the organization for approval by the Human Resource Manager and Directors.
• Prepares internal and external job advertisements, interview assessment tools and practical assessments as required.
• Co-ordinates and leads recruitment drives.
• Reviews applications and shortlists applicants and forwards to respective hiring Manager for approval.
• Plans and conducts interviews, prepares interview reports and submits
• recommendations to the Human Resource Manager for approval.
• Ensures post interview arrangements (pre-employment screening; testing; certificates; reference checks and background checks) are effected in accordance with company guidelines.
• Prepares offer letters and contracts for appointment.
• Leads, the orientation, onboarding and placement of new recruits.
• Reviews, develops and communicates policies to staff.
• Notifies and guides Managers and Employees as it relates to breaches of policies.
• Makes administrative arrangements for mediation sessions and prepares all necessary documentation regarding such sessions including Mediation Agreements.
• Maintains accurate and confidential records of employee relations matters, including investigations and resolutions.
• Monitors employee satisfaction levels and implements initiatives to enhance morale and retention.
• Acts as a trusted advisor to both employees and management on employee relations issues.
• Conducts Exit Interviews as required.
• Conducts the necessary research into employee complaints and grievances and prepares the necessary recommendations to Management for resolving same.
• Prepares warning letters, charge and penalty letters.
• Chairs/attends meetings with the employee representatives or employees to review grievances and determine or recommend solutions.
• Conducts research on litigation matters and other labour laws for all Tribunals and reviews employee files prior to Tribunal.
• Coordinates and sits on disciplinary, investigative and Appeal tribunals as and when required including preparing necessary documentation such as Tribunal Reports and responses to employees at the conclusion of matters.
• Recommends Disciplinary approaches to address identified breaches of leave policy.
• Maintains organized records of all contracts and related documentation.

• Prepares Performance Appraisal Instruments and conducts performance appraisal meetings with subordinate staff.
• Monitors, reviews and administers all employee benefits (Employee retirement plans,  medical plans and leave entitlements/eligibilities).
• Assists in maintaining office organization and documentation systems.
• Administers staff communications via email, phone, and other channels with professionalism and timeliness.
• Plans and coordinates internal staff engagement initiatives.

KSA REQUIREMENTS: 

Knowledge: Solid knowledge of employee relations and industrial relations principles and strategies. Strong knowledge of Human Resource best practices. Proficient use of HRIS software is a distinct asset. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Skills: Strong relationship management capabilities. Strong analytical skills. Strategic thinking capabilities, excellent communication skills (written and verbal), excellent interpersonal skills. Exceptional organizational skills with a keen eye for detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

Abilities: Ability to be flexible and receptive to change. Ability to navigate complex HR challenges and recommend solutions for same. Ability to work independently and adapt to changing priorities.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS:

Education/Training: Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resource Management or  Business Administration. Certification in industrial relations/labour relations.

Experience:  A minimum of three (3) years of progressive experience as a Human Resource or ER/IR professional. Experience in a unionized environment.

Certificates and Licenses:  Valid Drivers’ Permit.