Cape Town: IR Officer posted by Southey Contracting Offshore Division

Purpose of the Role

To manage and support all aspects of employee relations and labour law compliance, ensuring that workplace practices and policies align with South African labour legislation, company values, and operational needs.

Key Responsibilities

Industrial Relations

• Manage the end-to-end disciplinary and grievance processes, ensuring procedural fairness and legal compliance.
• Draft and deliver notices, warnings, and manage hearings, appeals, and outcomes.
• Conduct investigations into misconduct, conflict, or complaints, and compile accurate case reports.
• Guideline managers on best IR practices, offering coaching and policy clarification.

Legal Compliance & Policy

• Ensure company policies and procedures align with Labour Relations Act (LRA), BCEA, and other relevant legislation.
• Review and update IR policies, disciplinary codes, and employment contracts when needed.
• Represent the company at CCMA and external dispute resolution forums, including preparing bundles and case files.

Advisory & Reporting

• Provide sound IR advice to HR and management teams on disciplinary, performance, and absenteeism matters.
• Maintain detailed, accurate records of IR cases and outcomes.
• Generate IR reports and statistics for senior leadership.

Employee Engagement & Culture

• Support HR in fostering a positive, fair, and productive work environment.
• Assist with employee onboarding, policy inductions, and training sessions on workplace conduct and rights.
• Participate in transformation, wellness, and diversity initiatives where IR support is needed.

Qualifications & Experience

• National Diploma or Degree in Labour Relations, HR Management, or related field.
• Minimum 35 years experience in an IR or ER role (retail or manufacturing environment preferred).
• Solid knowledge of South African labour laws and CCMA processes.
• Proven experience managing disciplinary hearings, grievances, and investigations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English (Afrikaans an advantage).
• Ability to handle confidential matters with discretion and professionalism.
• Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook); experience with HRIS systems advantageous.

Key Competencies

• High emotional intelligence and conflict resolution skills
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in documentation
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and manage complex interpersonal situations
• Independent and proactive, yet a collaborative team player
• Strong ethical foundation and respect for company culture