Head of HR

SUMMARY:
This role is responsible for shaping and executing a people strategy that directly aligns with and drives the business objectives. This role requires a high-level cognitive function, a deep understanding of complex business systems, and the ability to leverage technology, data, and emotional intelligence to lead a modern workforce. The successful candidate will be a creative and strategic thinker who can navigate positional and adversarial environments with persuasion, collaboration, and resilience.

POSITION INFO:
Key Performance Areas & Responsibilities: Strategic & Business Leadership: Act as a trusted strategic partner to the CEO and executive team, providing counsel on all people-related matters that impact business strategy, growth, and long-term sustainability. Lead the development and implementation of an HR strategy that is forward-thinking and responsive to the unique challenges of the business, including digital transformation, the evolving nature of content creation, and a skills-based economy. Influence and drive cultural change, reinforcing the businesse's core values and fostering an environment of innovation, agility, and high performance. Manage a complex stakeholder environment, including executives, trade unions, and employees, with a focus on negotiation, persuasion, and collaborative problem-solving. Change and Transformation: Champion and lead significant organizational change initiatives, demonstrating the potential to grow into a primary driver of large-scale business transformation. Identify areas for strategic and operational change and develop a people-centric roadmap to achieve business objectives. Navigate the human side of change, demonstrating strong leadership and social influence to guide employees through periods of transition and uncertainty. Cognitive & Intellectual Acumen: Demonstrate exceptional problem-solving and analytical thinking skills to diagnose complex organizational challenges and design impactful solutions. Apply systems thinking to understand the interconnectedness of business units, technology, and people, ensuring HR interventions support the entire ecosystem. Leverage creative thinking to design innovative people programs that address complex issues, from talent acquisition in a competitive market to bespoke development pathways. Technology & Data-Driven HR: Show a strong understanding of technology literacy, with specific knowledge and proven application of AI and big data in the HR function. Utilize data analytics to inform decision-making in areas such as workforce planning, talent management, employee engagement, and retention. Identify and implement advanced HR technologies that streamline processes, provide predictive insights, and enhance the employee experience. People & Leadership Development: Exhibit high levels of emotional intelligence (EQ), self-awareness, and motivation to lead with authenticity and inspire trust. Develop and execute a robust talent management and succession planning strategy that identifies and nurtures future leaders. Champion leadership development across the organization, providing coaching and guidance that enhances social influence and effectiveness. Operational Oversight (Sufficient Experience Required): Must have sufficient, demonstrated experience in core HR functions, including but not limited to: Talent acquisition and retention Performance management Employee relations and labour law compliance (specifically in the South African context) Compensation and benefits management Learning and development Required Experience & Skills: Proven ability to operate at an executive, strategic level within a complex organization. A track record of high cognitive function, demonstrated through strategic project leadership, complex problem-solving, and a history of driving tangible business outcomes. Highly developed skills in persuasion, negotiation, and collaboration, particularly in positional or adversarial environments. A deep understanding of self-awareness, motivation, and emotional intelligence, with a history of building and leading high-performing teams. Demonstrated proficiency in systems thinking, creative problem-solving, and analytical thinking. Proven technology literacy and a working knowledge of how to apply AI and big data to business and people strategy. Exceptional resilience, flexibility, and agility to thrive in a dynamic, high-pressure environment. Experience in leadership and social influence, with a history of inspiring and guiding others. Sufficient, demonstrable experience in a broad range of human resources functions. A post- graduate qualification is a minimum requirement for this role