ER Consultant at Sappi

• At Sappi, we are a leading global provider with a reputation for delivering high-quality sustainable Woodfibre products and solutions for the global markets. We lead through our values centred around safety, integrity, courage, making smart decisions which we execute with speed. We are seeking unique people who believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive and safe environment.
• We’re on the lookout for an ER Consultant to provide high-level specialist Employee Relations (ER) advice and support to management, ensuring effective management of employee relations processes, compliance with labour legislation, and the promotion of a positive and productive working environment.

As an ER Consultant, you will be responsible for:

Ensure that all related IR/ER Administration is updated at all times

• Maintain accurate IR/ER databases, records and documentation in line with legal and company requirements.
• Compile monthly IR/ER reports, including incident reporting and trend analysis, and prepare documentation required for disciplinary and grievance processes.

Management of relationships with internal and external stakeholders within area of control

• Develop and maintain sound working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including management, trade unions, Bargaining Council, CCMA and consultative forums.
• Provide specialist ER advice to Line Management and support the identification and resolution of potential IR/ER risks and disputes.
• Monitor employee relations trends, including absenteeism, turnover and work stoppages, and recommend appropriate corrective actions.
• Facilitate training and awareness on relevant labour legislation, ER policies and procedures.

Management and control of all Transformation Objectives within the Organisation

• Coordinate and monitor Employment Equity activities and targets, including EE forums, reporting and compliance requirements.
• Monitor and report on BBBEE and EE objectives and provide regular updates to relevant stakeholders.

Facilitate internal dispute resolution, i.e. disciplinary and grievance matters

• Provide specialist advice and support on disciplinary and grievance matters and conduct internal ER investigations within the scope of responsibility.
• Manage and chair disciplinary hearings and facilitate grievance processes in accordance with company procedures and applicable legislation.

Accountability: Attend to labour litigation, i.e. CCMA and Labour Court matters

• Represent and support the business at CCMA, Labour Court and other relevant labour forums within the scope of responsibility.
• Conduct investigations and prepare evidence, documentation and case arguments in preparation for CCMA, Labour Court and related proceedings.

What are we looking for?

• National Diploma (NQF Level 6) or BCom/BA Degree in Labour Law, Labour Relations, Human Resources Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3–5 years’ experience in Employee Relations, Industrial Relations.  
• Computer literacy in MS Office and SAP.

What’s in it for you?

• Opportunity to work within a global organisation that continues to thrive in a rapidly changing world even after 80 years of existence.
• Learning and development programmes to fast-track your career within Sappi.
• Opportunities to travel.
• Market leading leave benefits.
• Employee wellbeing benefits.