Director: Labour Relations

The Office of the Premier in Gauteng is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Director of Labour Relations to join their team in Johannesburg. This vital role involves overseeing all labour relations activities, ensuring compliance with legal frameworks, fostering positive relationships, and advising management on key employee relations issues within the Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG).

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive labour relations policies and strategies for the GPG.
• Manage and monitor collective bargaining structures and processes effectively.
• Oversee discipline and dispute cases in strict adherence to legislative frameworks within the GPG.
• Represent the Employer in labour-related judicial matters at the Labour Court and other relevant structures.
• Formulate and execute strategies designed to maintain positive labour relations across the GPG.
• Lead and actively participate in negotiations with unions to establish fair and effective collective bargaining agreements.
• Ensure all GPG Departments strictly adhere to labour laws, regulations, and internal policies.
• Proactively handle conflicts and grievances between management and employees, fostering a harmonious work environment.
• Offer expert support and advice to management on various complex labour relations issues.
• Analyze labour trends and assess their potential impact within the GPG.
• Create and deliver impactful training programs on labour relations topics for GPG staff.
• Track and continuously improve employee satisfaction and engagement levels across the GPG.
• Effectively manage the Directorate’s human, financial, and physical resources.

Requirements

• Education: An NQF Level 7 qualification in Labour Relations. A higher qualification (NQF Level 8) will be considered a significant advantage.
• Mandatory Certification: You must possess the Nyukela Certificate for entry into the Senior Management Service (SMS) from the National School of Government. Please note that prospective candidates will not be employed without this certificate.
• Experience: A minimum of 5 years of experience at a middle or senior managerial level in Employee Relations, Collective Bargaining, and Management.

Skills and Competencies

• Proven ability to lead and manage a team, develop strategic initiatives, and ensure alignment with organizational goals.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, essential for effective negotiation, mediation, and conflict resolution.
• In-depth understanding and practical knowledge of labour laws, regulations, and compliance requirements.
• Demonstrated expertise in handling disputes and grievances, with a strong focus on fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Analytical skills to interpret complex data, identify key trends, and make informed, data-driven decisions.
• Strong ability to build and maintain collaborative relationships with various internal and external stakeholders.
• Capability to develop and implement long-term strategies for labour relations and workforce management.
• A high level of integrity and ethical judgment, particularly when handling sensitive and confidential issues.

Package

This position offers an all-inclusive remuneration package ranging from R 1 266 714.00 – R 1 492 122.00 per annum.

Location

Johannesburg

Closing Date

19 September 2025

How to Apply

If you meet the requirements for this challenging and rewarding role, please submit your application online:

1. Visit the GPG Professional Job Centre website to apply: Apply Here.
2. Complete and sign the new Z83 form (this form is widely available on government websites).
3. Attach a detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) ONLY. Ensure you quote the relevant reference number: REFS/023043.
4. Your CV must include contact details for at least three (3) professional referees.

Important: Failure to submit all required documents may lead to your application not being considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and they will be required to submit certified copies of their qualifications and ID two days prior to their interview.

Important Notes for Senior Management Service (SMS) Applicants

• All shortlisted candidates for SMS posts will be subjected to a technical exercise designed to test relevant technical elements of the job. The logistics for this will be communicated by the Department.
• Following the interview and technical exercise, the selection committee may recommend candidates to attend a generic managerial competency assessment. This assessment will test generic managerial competencies using the mandated DPSA SMS competency assessment tools.
• The successful candidate will be required to conclude an annual performance agreement within three (3) months of commencing duty.
• The appointment of the successful candidate is strictly subject to the issuing of a positive security clearance by the State Security Agency.
• The incumbent will be required to disclose their financial interests in accordance with the prescribed regulations.
• Nyukela Programme: The Pre-entry Certificate to Senior Management Services (SMS), endorsed by DPSA, is a mandatory online course offered by the National School of Government (NSG). Full details and course access can be found at: https://www.thensg.gov.za/training-course/sms-pre-entry-programme. This certificate is a prerequisite for employment in an SMS post.
• Due to the large number of applications anticipated, only shortlisted candidates will receive a response. If you do not hear back within three (3) months after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
• The Gauteng Office of the Premier reserves the right to cancel the filling or not fill any advertised vacancy at any stage of the recruitment process.
• Please note that no late applications will be considered.