Head of HR Operations Excellence at Publicis Groupe

Job Purpose:

• The Head of HR Operations Excellence is responsible for leading and delivering efficient, effective, and compliant HR operational services across Publicis Groupe Africa. This role oversees the design, implementation, and management of HR systems, processes, and programs related to HRIS, compensation and benefits, payroll, onboarding, offboarding, data management, and contracts management. A key focus is on driving automation and digitization initiatives to streamline HR processes, improve service delivery, and enhance the employee experience.

Key Responsibilities:
HR Operations Strategy & Leadership:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive HR operations strategy that aligns with the overall Publicis Groupe Africa HR strategy and business objectives.
• Lead, manage, and develop the HR Operations Excellence team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and customer service.
• Establish and maintain service level agreements (SLAs) with key stakeholders, including HR Business Partners and employees, to ensure timely and accurate service delivery.
• Identify and implement best practices in HR operations to enhance efficiency, effectiveness, and compliance.

HRIS Management:

• Oversee the management, maintenance, and optimization of the HRIS to ensure data accuracy, integrity, and security.
• Drive the implementation of HRIS upgrades and enhancements to improve functionality, user experience, and reporting capabilities.
• Ensure the HRIS supports automation and digitization of HR processes.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Direct the design, implementation, and administration of compensation and benefits programs, ensuring they are competitive, equitable, and compliant with South African legislation and market practices.
• Manage the annual salary review process, ensuring accuracy, fairness, and alignment with budget guidelines.
• Oversee the administration of employee benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and other programs.

Payroll Management:

• Oversee the accurate and timely processing of payroll for all employees, ensuring compliance with all statutory requirements and company policies. *Manage the internal payroll department to ensure efficient and compliant payroll processing.
• Implement and maintain effective payroll controls, procedures, and audits.

Onboarding & Offboarding:

• Design and implement efficient and effective onboarding and offboarding processes to ensure a positive employee experience and compliance with legal requirements.
• Manage the administration of new hire paperwork, orientation programs, and exit procedures.

Data Management & Reporting:

• Establish and maintain HR data management policies and procedures to ensure data accuracy, integrity, confidentiality, and compliance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
• Develop and deliver HR reports, dashboards, and analytics to support decision-making, identify trends, and measure the effectiveness of HR programs.

Contracts Management:

• Oversee the preparation, administration, and management of employee contracts, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and company policies.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date contract records.

Automation & Digitization:

• Identify opportunities to automate and digitize HR processes to improve efficiency, reduce manual effort, and enhance the employee experience.
• Lead the implementation of HR technology solutions to support automation and digitization initiatives.
• Drive the adoption of self-service tools and technologies to empower employees and managers.

Compliance & Risk Management:

• Ensure compliance with all relevant South African labor laws, regulations, and ethical standards, including the Labour Relations Act, the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, the Employment Equity Act, and POPIA.
• Develop and implement HR policies and procedures to ensure compliance and mitigate risk.
• Manage HR audits and ensure that all HR records are maintained in accordance with legal requirements and company policy.

Qualifications:

• A Bachelor's degree in Human Resources Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A post-graduate qualification in HR Management or a related field is advantageous.

Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive HR experience, with at least 5 years in a senior HR operations management role.
• Proven experience in managing HR operations in a large organization, preferably within the advertising, media, or related industry.
• Extensive knowledge of South African labor laws and HR best practices.
• Demonstrated experience in managing HRIS, payroll, compensation and benefits, and HR data management.
• Experience in process improvement, change management, and project management.
• Experience in leading automation and digitization projects.

Additional information

Skills and Competencies:

• Deep understanding of HR operations, including HRIS, payroll, compensation and benefits, onboarding/offboarding, and HR data management.
• Strong knowledge of South African labor laws, including the Labour Relations Act, the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, the Employment Equity Act, and the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
• Proven ability to identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
• Excellent leadership, management, and team development skills.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in HRIS and other relevant HR technologies.
• Project management skills and experience in leading complex projects.
• Change management skills and experience in driving organizational change.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and compliance.
• Commitment to providing high-quality, customer-focused HR services.

Personal Attributes:

• Pro-active and results-oriented
• Strong work ethic and commitment to excellence
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment
• Culturally sensitive and adaptable
• Collaborative and team-oriented
• Strong drive for continuous improvement and innovation