Head of Human Resources

Are you an experienced HR leader looking for a strategic role that truly impacts business success? A leading international food manufacturing company is searching for a Head of Human Resources to lead their entire HR function for the corporate workforce.

This pivotal senior management role, based just 45 minutes outside Paarl in the beautiful Western Cape, offers you the chance to drive strategic people initiatives. You will partner closely with executive leadership to shape HR strategy, boost employee engagement, ensure compliance, and foster a vibrant culture of innovation, well-being, and a strong employer brand.

About the Company

Our client is a globally recognised and rapidly expanding international food manufacturing group. They are renowned for their commitment to innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence. Joining this company means becoming part of an organisation that prioritises its people. They foster a collaborative leadership culture, encourage personal growth through continuous training, and provide access to global networks. Employee well-being and inclusion are at the forefront, with clear pathways for career advancement both locally and internationally. You’ll be part of a supportive environment where your contributions are valued and rewarded.

What You Will Do (Key Responsibilities)

As the Head of Human Resources, you will be instrumental in aligning people strategies with business objectives and organisational growth. Your key responsibilities will include:

• Develop and implement comprehensive HR strategies that align with local business goals and broader group directives.
• Lead and mentor a talented HR team, ensuring high-quality HR service delivery.
• Collaborate with senior leaders on organisational design, workforce planning, and leadership development programs.
• Oversee all aspects of talent acquisition, employee retention, succession planning, and career development.
• Ensure full compliance with South African labour laws, Employment Equity requirements, and all relevant statutory obligations.
• Strategically manage complex employee relations matters, including grievances, disciplinary actions, and high-level labour dispute resolutions.
• Champion initiatives related to organisational culture, employee wellbeing programs, employer branding, and diversity & inclusion.
• Effectively manage HR budgets and continuously improve HR systems, processes, and policies for enhanced efficiency.
• Oversee robust reporting mechanisms for workforce metrics and analytics to inform data-driven decision-making.
• Represent the organisation in negotiations with external stakeholders (e.g., legal and labour forums) and ensure successful internal and external HR audits.

What You Will Bring (Required Skills & Qualifications)

To succeed in this senior role, you will need a strong background and proven expertise:

• A minimum of 8 years of experience in senior human resources leadership roles, preferably within manufacturing or similar complex industries with large-scale HR operations.
• A postgraduate qualification in Human Resources Management, Labour Relations, or a closely related discipline is essential.
• Comprehensive understanding of South African labour law frameworks and proven experience ensuring statutory compliance across large organisations.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex employee relations cases, including grievances, disciplinary procedures, and high-level labour disputes.
• Exceptional strategic thinking combined with strong operational execution capabilities.
• Proven track record of developing teams through inspirational leadership and influencing stakeholders at all organisational levels.
• Expertise in HR metrics tools, workforce analytics platforms, payroll systems, and modern HRIS solutions.
• Outstanding communication abilities and advanced stakeholder management skills to build trust across diverse groups.
• High levels of integrity, resilience under pressure, and a deep commitment to ethical HR practices and continuous improvement.

Why Join This Company?

This is a chance to join a reputable international group that leads in innovation within food manufacturing. You will benefit from being part of a growing enterprise focused on sustainability and operational excellence. The company promotes a collaborative culture, supporting personal growth through training and access to global networks. Employee well-being and engagement are paramount, ensuring an inclusive environment where every team member feels valued. With clear career paths to broader executive positions, both locally and internationally, your contributions will be recognised and rewarded through meaningful professional development.

How to Apply

If you are ready to embrace an influential role where your expertise can drive significant change across an entire organisation’s people strategy, we encourage you to apply!

Take the next step towards shaping your future as a Head of Human Resources within an inspiring international business. Click the application link provided to submit your application today.