Reports to: Snr HR Manager
Purpose of the Role:
The Industrial Relations (IR) Specialist and Policy Development role focuses on managing employee relations, ensuring compliance with labour legislation, and developing comprehensive HR policies. This position supports a healthy workplace environment through dispute resolution, union engagement, and policy creation that aligns with GWM South Africa’s strategic objectives and legal requirements.
Key Responsibilities:
Industrial Relations (IR)
● Manage employee relations processes including disciplinary hearings, grievance resolutions, and dispute management.
● Facilitate communication and negotiations with trade unions and employee representatives.
● Provide guidance to management and employees on labour law compliance and best practices.
● Coordinate and support Section 189 retrenchment processes and organisational change initiatives.
● Collaborate with legal advisors regarding labour disputes, arbitration, and labour court cases.
● Maintain up-to-date knowledge of South African labour legislation and industrial relations trends.
Policy Development
● Develop, review, and update HR policies and procedures to ensure legal compliance and alignment with corporate values.
● Communicate and promote policies across the organisation to ensure clear understanding and consistent application.
● Facilitate training and briefing sessions for management and employees on new and existing HR policies.
● Monitor implementation and effectiveness of policies, recommending improvements as needed.
● Ensure policies reflect regulatory changes and industry best practices.
Qualifications & Experience:
● Bachelor’s degree or Diploma in Labour Relations, Human Resources, or related discipline.
● Minimum 3-5 years’ experience in industrial relations and HR policy development.
● Solid knowledge of South African labour legislation (LRA, BCEA) and relevant collective agreements.
● Experience managing disciplinary processes, grievances, and union engagements.
● Automotive OEM Industry experience is essential
● Strong policy writing and communication skills.
● Ability to manage confidential information with professionalism and integrity.
Competencies:
● Labour Law and Industrial Relations Expertise
● Conflict Management and Negotiation
● HR Policy Research and Writing
● Effective Communication and Training
● Stakeholder Engagement
● Analytical Thinking
● Integrity and Confidentiality
● Time and Project Management
CVs to be emailed to careers@gwm.co.za
Closing date: 30 November 2025
