SUMMARY:
Dynamic and innovative International organization that believes in fostering a collaborative and supportive workplace that empowers their employees to succeed is currently seeking an experienced HR Specialist – Shared Services to join their successful team and play a key role in streamlining HR operations, ensuring office efficiency, and supporting employee engagement across our locations. Offices based in the Northern suburbs of Cape Town.
POSITION INFO:
Dynamic and innovative International organization that believes in fostering a collaborative and supportive workplace that empowers their employees to succeed is currently seeking an experienced HR Specialist – Shared Services to join their successful team and play a key role in streamlining HR operations, ensuring office efficiency, and supporting employee engagement across our locations. Offices based in the Northern suburbs of Cape Town.
Job Overview
As the HR Specialist, you will be the backbone of our South African operations, providing essential HR support to a growing workforce (currently ~30 employees, expected to grow beyond 60). Reporting directly to the Country Manager (who also serves as Legal Counsel), you will take the lead on developing and embedding HR policies, procedures, and culture initiatives.
You will oversee one direct report (Office Administrator), with plans for two additional reportees (including a Payroll Administrator) as the team grows. For the first 6–12 months, the role will focus primarily on SA operations and HR, with minimal exposure to industrial relations.
Because you will serve as a bridge between our SA office and US-based parent group, excellent communication skills are critical. Beyond skills and experience, we place great emphasis on cultural fit: we want someone who will thrive in our collaborative, people-focused environment and help shape our culture as we grow.
Key Responsibilities
HR Policy Development and Implementation
- Develop, update, and implement HR policies and procedures to ensure compliance and consistency across the Group.
- Administer policies related to people management, attraction, deployment, and development to build a high-performance and positive culture.
- Communicate policy changes effectively and provide guidance on best practices.
- Support the Senior HR Director in driving global and stream-specific HR priorities, collaborating across functions for a seamless HR service.
- Conduct HR audits to ensure compliance and above-board practices.
- Ensure compliance with relevant labour laws, health and safety regulations, and industry standards.
Employee Engagement and Support
- Act as the primary point of contact for employees seeking HR support and resources.
- Provide business-focused HR support to the SA office, including onboarding, induction, and employee transitions.
- Monitor staff movements, attrition, and vacancies, ensuring timely and cost-effective hiring.
- Foster a positive, engaging workplace culture through proactive initiatives and daily interactions.
Liaison Between US and SA Offices
- Serve as the communication link between the SA office and international counterparts.
- Ensure alignment of HR practices and policies across geographies.
- Advise management on HR-related matters including conflict resolution, performance, and employee development.
Administrative & Operational Support
- Maintain accurate employee records and HR documentation.
- Support HR-related administration, including benefits, payroll queries, and compliance reporting.
- Oversee office administration to ensure smooth day-to-day operations.
- Provide support to direct reports and guide the future HR shared services team.
Qualifications & Competencies
Experience
- 5+ years of experience in an HR role, ideally within a multinational or cross-office environment.
- Exposure to building HR processes, policies, and culture initiatives will be advantageous.
Skills
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills (essential for working with international counterparts).
- Strong organizational, problem-solving, and interpersonal abilities.
- Ability to balance strategic initiatives with hands-on HR administration.
Knowledge
- Solid understanding of HR policies, procedures, and South African labour laws.
- Knowledge of cross-border HR practices (especially US/SA) will be beneficial.
Personality & Cultural Fit
- Approachable, empathetic, and people-focused.
- Proactive and adaptable, with a collaborative style.
- Culture-first mindset — ability to both embrace and actively shape the organization’s values.
