Employee Relations Legal Advisor (HR & Labour Law)

About the role

The Employee Relations Legal Advisor will provide strategic guidance on employee relations matters to executives, HR leaders and business stakeholders across local, national and international operations. The role focuses on managing employment‑related risks, navigating complex people issues and ensuring compliance with labour legislation.

Key responsibilities

• Influence employee‑relations strategy and culture initiatives to minimise conflict and reputational risk.
• Identify and mitigate employee‑relations risks, delivering preventative interventions.
• Draft, review and negotiate employment and independent‑contractor agreements, as well as workplace policies.
• Lead complex workplace investigations, including misconduct, whistleblowing, fraud and protected‑disclosure cases.
• Manage disciplinary, incapacity and grievance processes.
• Support regulatory investigations and partner with Compliance, Risk, Legal and Forensics functions.
• Analyse trends, produce dashboards and reporting on grievances, disputes, investigations and litigation outcomes.

Required profile

• LLB, BCom Law or equivalent law degree (completed); Masters in Law advantageous.
• 5‑7 years of legal practice experience, admitted legal practitioner.
• In‑house counsel experience preferred; strong background in employee‑relations and labour law.
• Demonstrated experience in labour‑court litigation, CCMA representation and organisational change.
• Experience in a highly regulated environment such as financial services is a plus.
• Valid driver’s licence, own vehicle and ability to travel.

Required skills