National HR Manager – Retail – Sandton (Ref 7199)

JOB SPECIFICATION 

The National HR Manager is responsible for the strategic and operational management of the Human Resources function across all regions, including oversight of compliance with labour legislation, payroll and workforce budgeting, training and skills development, employment equity, disciplinary processes, and the development of a high-performance workforce. This role manages a small HR team and partners closely with senior operations management to drive a compliant, engaged, andhigh-performing workforce.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

Key Responsibilities and Duties:

1. Human Resources Strategy & Leadership:

o      Lead and manage the national HR strategy in alignment with business objectives.

o      Provide expert HR advice and support to all levels of management including Regional Managers, Store Managers, and Commissary leadership.

o      Promote a positive, values-driven company culture across all stores and departments.

2. People Management:

o      Manage and mentor a HR team consisting of an HR Administrator and PRP Administrator.

o      Ensure accurate and timely execution of HR administrative processes and reporting.

3. Labour Relations & Discipline:

o      Chair and/or initiate internal disciplinary inquiries in line with the company’s disciplinary code.

o      Represent the company at external dispute forums including the CCMA and Bargaining Council.

o      Guide and coach managers on handling misconduct, grievances, incapacity, and poor performance.

o      Ensure all labour practices are aligned with the Labour Relations Act, BCEA, and other relevantlaws.

4. Recruitment, Selection & Onboarding:

o      Oversee the full recruitment and onboarding lifecycle for all positions nationwide.

o      Develop and maintain recruitment tools, standard interview templates, and onboardingchecklists.

o      Ensure consistent, fair, and compliant recruitment practices across all regions.

5. Training, Skills Development & Employment Equity:

o      Oversee and drive the company’s Skills Development initiatives, including submission ofWorkplace Skills Plans (WSPs) and Annual Training Reports (ATRs).

o      Identify and implement training programs aligned to operational and compliance needs.

o      Manage Employment Equity planning and compliance, including submission of EEA2 and EEA4reports.

o      Facilitate Employment Equity Committee meetings and updates. 6. Health & Safety:

o      Oversee and support the implementation of Health & Safety policies and procedures across alllocations.

o      Ensure compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

o      Monitor workplace incidents, conduct investigations where needed, and implement correctiveactions.

o      Ensure all IOD’s are reported with the relevant paperwork 7. Payroll & HoursBudget Oversight:

o      Oversee monthly payroll processing

o      Compile and monitor monthly worked hours budgets for all operational areas.

o      Ensure PRP system updates (rosters, leave, clock-ins) are accurate and submitted within deadlines.

o      Manage leave administration and ensure compliance with leave policies. 8. HR Policy & Compliance:

o      Develop, implement, and update HR policies and procedures in line with changing legislationand business needs.

o      Ensure HR processes are consistent across all regions.

o      Conduct routine audits on personnel files, uniform records, leave records, and PRP compliance.

9. Systems & Reporting:

o      Oversee and maintain HR and time management systems (e.g., PRP). o      Ensure accurate reporting and data integrity across platforms.

o      Submit monthly HR dashboards, reports, and analysis to executive management.

10. Stakeholder Management & Communication:

o Build strong relationships with operational and support leadership.

o Facilitate regular HR status updates and training sessions for Regional and Store Managers.

o Communicate legislative or policy changes to staff and management. 11. Other Duties:

o Assist with company-wide projects including store expansions, closures, or restructuring.

o Provide any reasonable and lawful assistance as required by a director or executive.

Skills & Competencies Required:

     Strong leadership and strategic thinking.

     In-depth knowledge of South African labour legislation.      Excellentconflict resolution and decision-making skills.

     Proficiency in HR systems, payroll processes, and time/attendance platforms (e.g., PRP).

     Highly organized, deadline-driven, and results-oriented.      Strong written and verbal communication skills.

     Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.      High emotional intelligence and interpersonal effectiveness.

Experience and Qualifications:

      Grade 12 or equivalent.

      Minimum bachelor’s degree in human resources management (BCom HR or similar) – Required.

      Minimum 5–7 years of HR experience, with at least 3–5 years at a senior or level.       Strongknowledge and practical experience with disciplinary processes, CCMA,

payroll oversight, and HR systems.

      Experience working in a multi-site, fast-paced retail, hospitality, or food service environment –Highly beneficial.

SALARY OFFERED : R 40k-R44k according to experience

Relevant tertiary qualification in Human Resources, Labour Relations, Industrial Psychology or equivalent. 

Clear criminal and ITC Record

Postgraduate qualification required. 

Minimum 8–12 years senior HR management experience in a national or multi-site environment. 

Proven hands-on experience in Industrial Relations, Payroll Governance and statutory compliance. 

Apply – by email with your CV, with photo on CV, to admin1@smartplacements.co.za

Tagged as: CCMA Representation, Industrial Relations, National HR Management, Payroll Governance, Statutory Compliance