Job Summary
Build Exceptional Teams. Shape Culture. Change Lives. Great HR is built on strong policies, accurate payroll and robust procedures. But great people businesses are built on something more. We are looking for an exceptional Human Resources Manager to oversee the entire HR function for a small group of luxury hospitality properties on the West Coast. This is a role that demands operational excellence while never losing sight of the people behind the process. You'll ensure the fundamentals are executed flawlessly from compliance, payroll and employee relations to recruitment and performance management, but you'll also be a coach, a trusted advisor and a catalyst for positive change. Our teams are drawn from local communities where many people face significant socio-economic challenges, including unemployment, substance abuse, domestic violence and limited access to opportunity. We are looking for someone who can balance empathy with accountability, creating a culture where people are supported, challenged and empowered to succeed. This is an opportunity for an experienced HR professional who believes that people are the heartbeat of any organisation and that hospitality has the power to transform lives, strengthen communities and create lasting impact. The Role Reporting directly to the Owners and Operations Manager, you will lead and manage the full Human Resources function across our collection of luxury properties, partnering closely with departmental leaders to build engaged, high-performing teams. Your responsibilities will include: Leading the full employee lifecycle, including recruitment, onboarding, performance management and employee relations. Managing payroll and ensuring accurate and timeous processing. Developing; implementing and maintaining HR policies, procedures and systems that support operational excellence and legislative compliance. Ensuring compliance with South African labour legislation and HR best practice. Partnering with leaders across multiple properties to build confident, capable management teams. Driving organisational culture, employee engagement and values-based leadership. Leading change management initiatives that support business growth and operational excellence. Managing disciplinary processes, grievances and conflict resolution with fairness, consistency and professionalism. Developing talent through coaching, succession planning and learning and development initiatives. Providing strategic HR guidance to senior leadership while remaining hands-on in the day-to-day operation. Preparing HR reports, analysing people metrics and identifying opportunities for continuous improvement. What We're Looking For We're looking for someone who combines exceptional HR expertise with emotional intelligence, resilience and a genuine passion for developing people. You will ideally have: A relevant tertiary qualification in Human Resources or a related field. At least five years' experience in a generalist HR management role. Experience overseeing the full HR function within a multi-site business. Strong payroll experience and a sound understanding of HR administration and compliance. Excellent knowledge of South African labour legislation and employment practices. Proven experience leading organisational and cultural change. Experience managing employee relations in both unionised and non-unionised environments. Outstanding coaching, communication and conflict resolution skills. High levels of integrity, discretion and professionalism. A valid driver's licence and willingness to travel between properties. Experience within luxury hospitality, tourism or another service-driven environment will be highly advantageous. The Person This role requires far more than technical HR expertise. You are someone who: Understands that great HR is about balancing business needs with genuine care for people. Sees potential in people before they see it in themselves. Can hold difficult conversations with empathy, courage and fairness. Is comfortable working within small rural communities and appreciates the unique opportunities and challenges they present. Can navigate complex social challenges while maintaining clear professional boundaries. Builds trust without compromising standards or accountability. Is resilient, emotionally intelligent and calm under pressure. Inspires leaders to become better managers, coaches and mentors. Thrives in environments where no two days are ever the same. Wants to leave a lasting legacy through people rather than processes alone. Why This Role Is Different This is more than an HR management role. It is an opportunity to shape the culture of a growing luxury hospitality group while creating meaningful opportunities for people whose lives can be transformed through stable employment, strong leadership and genuine care. The work extends beyond the workplace. It is about helping people build confidence, supporting leaders to create thriving teams, strengthening families through meaningful employment and contributing to the long-term wellbeing of the communities in which we operate. Every policy you implement, every leader you coach and every person you develop has the potential to create a ripple effect far beyond our properties. If you believe exceptional hospitality begins with exceptional people, and that outstanding HR combines operational excellence with compassion, courage and accountability, we'd love to hear from you. To apply, please submit your CV together with a brief motivation outlining why this opportunity resonates with you.