Head - Employee Relations/Industrial Relations - FMCG

Head of Employee Relations (ER) & Industrial Relations (IR)

Grade: DGM

Location: Corporate Office

Reports To: Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO)

Job Purpose:

The Head of ER & IR will lead the development and implementation of effective employee relations and industrial relations strategies that foster a positive working environment, ensure compliance with labor laws, and support the company's overall business objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership:

- Develop and implement ER & IR strategies aligned with the company's business objectives.

- Advise senior management on ER & IR issues, risks, and opportunities.

- Drive continuous improvement in ER & IR policies and practices.

Employee Relations:

- Manage and resolve complex employee relations issues.

- Oversee investigations into employee complaints and grievances.

- Develop programs to enhance employee engagement and satisfaction.

- Ensure consistent application of company policies and procedures.

- Change ManagementDevelop and maintain productive relationships with trade unions and employee representatives.

Industrial Relations:

- Develop and maintain productive relationships with trade unions and employee representatives.

- Lead negotiations for collective bargaining agreements.

- Monitor compliance with labor laws and collective agreements.

- Manage disputes and lead conflict resolution initiatives.

Compliance and Risk Management:

- Ensure the company complies with all relevant labor laws and regulations.

- Develop and implement policies to mitigate ER & IR risks.

- Conduct audits and assessments to ensure policy adherence and identify areas for improvement.

Training and Development:

- Design and deliver training programs on ER & IR best practices.

- Coach and mentor HR staff and line managers on ER & IR issues.

Data Management and Reporting:

- Maintain accurate records of ER & IR activities.

- Provide regular reports to senior management on ER & IR metrics and trends.

- Analyze data to identify patterns and inform strategic decisions.

Stakeholder Management:

- Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

- Act as a liaison between management and employees to address concerns and improve communication.

Qualifications:

- Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master's degree or HR certification is preferred.

- Minimum of 15 years of experience in employee relations and industrial relations, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.

- In-depth knowledge of labor laws and regulations.

- Proven experience in managing complex ER & IR issues and negotiations.

- Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.

- Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.

- Ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.

Key Competencies:

Leadership and Influence

Strategic Thinking

Conflict Resolution

Negotiation Skills

Analytical Skills

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Integrity and Professionalism

Change Management