Senior Specialist HR at adidas Group

Purpose & Overall Relevance for the Organisation

• We are seeking a dynamic and experienced HR People Partner to support our Backoffice teams. This role requires a strategic thinker who can operate independently, take ownership of people-related projects, and drive impactful HR initiatives. The ideal candidate will be a trusted advisor to the business, with the ability to influence, coach, and collaborate across all levels.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as a strategic partner to business leaders, providing expert guidance on all people-related matters.
• Lead and execute key HR calendar activities including Talent Management, Performance Management, Learning & Development, DE&I, Rewards, and Employee Engagement.
• Support and/or lead strategic HR projects and initiatives that drive organisational effectiveness and culture.
• Own and drive talent experience moments for all employees including onboarding, offboarding and other key employee moments.
• Partner with Payroll and HR services to ensure accurate and timely processing of employee movements and monthly payroll inputs.
• Maintain and update HR policies, processes, and documentation in line with best practices and compliance requirements.
• Serve as the first point of contact for employees and managers in your business areas, providing timely and effective people support.
• Improve management’s leadership capability through continuous coaching on effective management and leadership practices.
• Lead HR reporting and analytics, including headcount management, monthly dashboards, and ad-hoc data requests.
• Stay current on HR trends and best practices, sharing knowledge and insights with the team and business leaders.

Requisite Education and Experience / Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or National Diploma in Human Resources or related field.
• 5 years’ in an HR role with at least 2 years’ experience in a strategic HR Business Partnering role within a medium-to-large organisation.
• Proven track record in managing complex employee relations matters and driving HR initiatives independently.
• Experience working with senior stakeholders and influencing at leadership level.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong business acumen and ability to align HR strategy with business goals.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and build trust at all various levels of an organisation.
• High level of initiative and ownership; able to work autonomously and manage multiple priorities.
• Strong analytical and reporting skills; proficiency in MS Excel and HR systems.
• Ability to coach and support leaders through change and transformation.
• Comfortable presenting to groups and facilitating workshops or training sessions.
• Solid knowledge of managing Employee Relations in alignment with the South African labour law.
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.