Head of HR

Overview

Location: Cape Town, South Africa

Company: Healthcare recruitment agency

Position: Head of HR

Our client is seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of HR to lead and oversee the HR function at a global level. This role focuses on managing day-to-day HR operations while driving strategic projects, performance improvement initiatives, and succession planning. The ideal candidate will be a hands-on leader with experience in global HR operations, business partnering, and leading HR teams. As the right-hand person to the business, you will ensure that HR practices align with the company’s objectives, contribute to performance improvement, and support talent development across global operations.

• HR Operations Leadership
  • Lead and manage day-to-day HR operations across multiple locations, ensuring smooth and efficient HR processes.
  • Oversee the HR team, providing guidance and support to ensure high-quality service delivery.
  • Manage operational HR issues such as employee relations, policy enforcement, engagement, and legal compliance.
  • Ensure accurate HR data and records across global offices.
  • Act as a trusted advisor to senior management on operational HR matters.
• Strategic HR Leadership
  • Collaborate with the Global Head of HR and senior leadership to drive strategic HR initiatives aligned with growth and global expansion.
  • Manage talent acquisition, performance management, and retention strategies in partnership with the Head of Talent Acquisition.
  • Lead performance improvement plans (PIPs) and initiatives to drive organizational performance and culture change.
  • Oversee HR projects including organizational development, leadership development, and succession planning.
  • Develop and implement a comprehensive succession planning strategy to identify and develop key talent.
• Employee Relations & Performance Management
  • Manage complex employee relations issues, guiding managers and staff on conflict resolution and compliance.
  • Design and implement performance management systems aligned with company goals.
  • Explore HR technology to streamline processes, enhance data reporting, and improve the employee experience.
  • Promote a performance-driven culture with clear KPIs, ongoing feedback, and development programs.
• Business Partnering & Global HR Management
  • Act as HR business partner to leadership, aligning HR strategies with business objectives.
  • Provide HR leadership to key business units, aligning talent management with organizational needs.
  • Leverage global HR knowledge to scale initiatives across regions while accommodating local variations.
  • Collaborate with senior management on change management, organizational design, and employee engagement.
• Team Management & Development
  • Lead, mentor, and develop the HR team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing function.
  • Equip the team with tools, knowledge, and resources to support the business effectively.
  • Conduct regular performance reviews and support continuous professional growth.
• Project Management & Implementation
  • Oversee key HR projects and ensure timely execution and results.
  • Manage and implement global HR initiatives, including talent development and strategic partnerships.
  • Lead the implementation of HR best practices, policies, and systems to improve efficiency, compliance, and employee satisfaction.

Essential Qualifications and Skills

• Experience:
  
  Minimum 5-10 years in HR, with at least 5 years in a senior or leadership role.
• Proven global HR operations experience across diverse geographies, ideally in healthcare or similarly regulated environments.
• Strong background in strategic HR management, including employee relations, talent development, succession planning, and performance improvement.
• Demonstrated experience in managing complex employee relations issues and leading performance management initiatives.
• Familiarity with HR technology systems, data management, and performance management tools.
• Knowledge:
  Strong understanding of global HR best practices, compliance, and employee laws.
• Expertise in succession planning, leadership development, and talent management strategies.
• Experience driving cultural change and organizational transformation through HR…