Hippo Valley Estates Limited VACANCY EMPLOYEE RELATIONS SPECIALIST Reporting To: The Head of Human Capital
Purpose of Role Responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining sound employee relations practices across the business by ensuring legal compliance, fair workplace conduct, and effective dispute resolution.
The role provides specialist legal and industrial relations expertise, represents the company at relevant courts and tribunals, and supports leaders to build a culture of trust, fairness, and constructive employee engagement.
Duties and Responsibilities
Strategic & Policy: -Develop and implement the Employee Relations strategy aligned with Group Human Capital policies and local labour legislation. -Monitor developments in labour law and propose updates to policies, procedures, and disciplinary codes. -Advise the Head of HC and senior management on trends, risks, and proactive mitigation measures.
Legal Representation & Case Management -Represent the organisation in statutory hearings, arbitrations, and court proceedings. -Prepare and submit legal documentation, pleadings, and evidence for cases involving dismissals, unfair labour practices, or collective disputes. -Liaise with external legal counsel where necessary to ensure consistent and compliant representation.
Collective Bargaining & Union Engagement -Support negotiations with trade unions and employee representatives, ensuring alignment with company objectives and labour laws. -Facilitate constructive dialogue to maintain stable industrial relations and prevent work stoppages. -Contribute to the development of industry-level position papers and coordinate with employer associations where relevant.
Advisory & Leadership -Provide expert advice to management on disciplinary, grievance, incapacity, and performance management processes. -Support the implementation of fair and transparent workplace practices that promote employee well-being and productivity. -Deliver ER training and awareness programmes for line managers and HR professionals.
Governance & Reporting -Maintain accurate case management records and prepare periodic reports on disputes, grievances, and ER trends. -Ensure that all actions and outcomes comply with applicable laws, company policy, and ethical standards. -Monitor and analyse employee relations metrics to identify emerging risks and recommend interventions.
Qualifications and Experience
-Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or equivalent legal qualification (essential). -Labour relations or mediation certification (advantageous). -7–10 years of experience in Employee/Industrial Relations or employment law. -Proven experience representing companies at Labour Court or equivalent forums.
COMPETENCIES AND ATTRIBUTES -In-depth knowledge of labour and employment legislation across applicable jurisdictions. -Strong understanding of dispute resolution processes and collective bargaining frameworks. -Excellent drafting skills for contracts, agreements, and legal documentation. -Strong integrity, confidentiality, and sound judgement. -Confident, assertive communicator able to influence at all levels. -High emotional intelligence with conflict resolution capability. -Strategic thinker with hands-on delivery approach. -Service-oriented and resilient under pressure.
How to Apply
Applications with a CV, Certified copies of educational certificates and qualifications should be submitted on or before 31 October, 2025 via the link below
Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted. If you do not hear from us in 14 days, please consider your application unsuccessful.
