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 negotiation 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: 16 October 2026
