International Employee Relations Manager

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We are looking for an experienced Senior Employee Relations Manager with extensive legal expertise in HR and labour laws, specifically within the Sub-Saharan African context.

To apply you should be able to demonstrate a strong understanding of employee relations strategies, conflict resolution and compliance with local regulations.

A proven track record in fostering a positive workplace environment and enhancing employee engagement is essential.

Join us in leading our efforts to build a fair and inclusive workplace culture!

This is not a junior/mid level role. We are looking for someone with International experience within Africa.

Recognized thrice by the Financial Times as one Africa's fastest growing companies (2022, 2023 and 2024) and by TIME100 Most influential companies in the world 2023 and 2024, we've served over 5 million customers, unlocking $1.5 billion in cumulative credit for the unbanked across Africa.

At M-KOPA, we empower our people to own their careers through diverse development programs, coaching partnerships, and on-the-job training. We support individual journeys with family-friendly policies, prioritize well-being, and embrace flexibility.

It's an opportunity to work in a company where progress and humility are valued as highly as technical excellence? At M-KOPA we use the latest technologies and tools to build fantastic customer experiences with a socially and environmentally conscious mission that echoes throughout the organization.

Join us in shaping the future of M-KOPA as we grow together. Explore more at m-kopa.com.

Our hiring process is as much about us selling to you as the other way round. Our hiring process is a series of meetings as follows;

Recruiter call 30 mins - an introduction to the process and M-KOPA

Hiring Team call 45 mins - High level introductions, from the Hiring Manager

then typically;

Presentation or Task prepared at home

Task Deep Dive with a panel 90 mins - This is where most of the magic happens.

Pre-Final 45 mins - meeting some peers and stakeholders

Final Interview - 30 mins

Detailed overview of the role and requirements
Role Overview

The Senior Global Employee Relations Specialist is a strategic partner responsible for managing complex employee relations issues, developing and implementing employee relations strategies, and ensuring compliance with employment laws and company policies across multiple African countries and the UK. This senior-level role requires advanced expertise in conflict resolution, policy development, and employee engagement to foster a positive and productive workplace environment.

Key Responsibilities

Complex Employee Relations Management

• Address and resolve high-level and complex employee relations issues, including sensitive complaints, disputes, and grievances.

• Lead thorough and impartial investigations into serious employee complaints, including harassment, discrimination, and misconduct, documenting findings, and recommending appropriate actions.

• Provide strategic advice to senior management on complex employee relations matters, including performance management, disciplinary actions, and legal compliance.

Policy Development and Strategy Implementation

• Lead the development and refinement of employee relations policies and procedures, ensuring alignment with best practices and legal requirements across all operating markets.

• Develop and implement strategies to improve employee relations and foster a positive organizational culture.

• Regularly review and update policies and procedures to reflect changes in laws, regulations, and organizational needs.

Leadership and Mentorship

• As SME provide guidance, coaching and training to other members of the People team, sharing expertise and best practices.

• Design and deliver advanced training programs for managers on complex employee relations issues, legal compliance, and effective conflict resolution techniques.

Legal and Regulatory Compliance

• Oversee compliance with employment laws, regulations, and industry standards across all operating markets, ensuring that all ER practices and procedures meet legal requirements.

• Identify potential risks related to employee relations issues and develop proactive measures to mitigate these risks.

Reporting and Analysis

• Analyse trends and data related to employee relations issues to identify root causes, track resolution effectiveness, and recommend improvements.

• Generate detailed reports for senior management on employee relations trends, key issues, and strategic initiatives.

Employee Engagement and Communication

• Develop and implement initiatives to enhance employee engagement, satisfaction, and retention.

• Act as a liaison between employees and management, facilitating effective communication and ensuring that employee voices are heard.

Labour Relations

• Lead Labour Relations at M-KOPA, including the design and implementation of HR policies and procedures aligned with business plans and company objectives.

• Support the process of negotiating collective agreements as applicable and interpret related labour legislations.

• Develop and maintain positive relationships with labour unions and negotiate Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) in collaboration with senior management as applicable.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Psychology, or a related field. A Master's degree or HR certification is preferred.

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in a specialist role heavily focused on employee relations and/or employment law work.

• Strong background and understanding of employment laws, labour relations, and HR best practices across Africa.

• Demonstrated experience in conducting workplace investigations and resolving complex employee relations issues.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Advanced conflict resolution and mediation skills.

• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.

• In-depth knowledge of employment laws, regulations, and HR best practices across multiple African countries.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact with all levels of the organization.

• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and coach employees.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and HR software systems.

• Ability to read, write, speak and understand English at a business level.

• Experience in stakeholder engagement, negotiations, and strategic IR management.

• Ability to work in an unstructured environment, both independently and as part of a team.