REPORTS TO:

Regional Chief Executive Officer with a dotted line to the London based Group Human Resources Manager

SUMMARY OF OPPORTUNITY:

Establish responsibility and accountability for the delivery of a world class group human resources function, with particular emphasis on setting strategic direction in people management; defining overall policy and standards; overseeing quality and assurance issues; introducing new, innovative ideas and concepts; and catalytically interacting as a “change agent” so as to effect continual improvements in all human resource related matters.

COMPANY BACKGROUND:

South African subsidiary of an international insurance and reinsurance underwriting group employing about 50 people in three offices in South Africa.

YEAR ONE CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS: 

• Ensure the Human Resources strategy proactively supports, is aligned to, and enables the Business strategy and empowerment objectives and functions as an integrated business partner
• Working with the Chief Executive Officer, assist with the development of a cohesive management team with a culture and structure capable of operating nimbly and effectively in a global environment
• Establish policies and procedures to build a business function that is effective and align the Human Resources practices with those of the global Group

KEY JOB PERFORMANCE AREAS: 

• Contribute on strategic Human Resources Issues as a Member of the Management Team and focus on the current performance and development of the business
• Provide high level operational Human Resources support and establish strong relationships with management
• Manage employee relations, training and employment equity issues and leverage best practice Human Resources initiatives across the business
• Operate as an effective coach and sounding board for senior colleagues and be a mentor of the staff
• Establish succession planning for key roles and manage all recruitment and exits
• Lead key organisation and change management projects and introduce a style of Human Resources management that encourages innovation and improved methods of achieving objectives
• Contribute to the overall development of the Company by leading and shaping the organisation's human resource activities
• Manage the internal operations of the offices in South Africa

 EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION:  

• Must be a graduate in an appropriate discipline such as Social Sciences / Industrial Psychology
• At least fifteen years experience in the human resources field, with a minimum of two years experience as a Human Resources Head Office Business Partner
•  Ideal to have headed a human resources business or division in a financial services or corporate head office environment employing at least 30 people
• Experience of working closely with a senior team
• Should have a good working knowledge of the various Acts controlling the working conditions of employees and be knowledgeable about mediation, arbitration, interdicts, and all relevant legislation
• Must have had exposure to Black Employment Equity, organisation development and corporate social involvement
• Professional with excellent communication skills