The University of Cape Town Lung Institute ), requires applications for a HEAD OF HUMAN RESOURCES* position, on a Fixed Term Contract.
The Lung Institute, a subsidiary of the University of Cape Town, is a globally recognised medical research facility with a mandate to address priority health issues through Education, Research and Service.
The HR HOD is responsible for leading and managing the Human Resources department, developing HR strategies, implementing policies, and ensuring that the organisation attracts, develops, and retains high-quality talent. The role supports organisational goals through effective people management and compliance with labour laws.
Minimum Requirements:
* Grade 12 / Equivalent
* Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources Management, Business Administration, or related field (Master's preferred)
* Minimum 7–10 years HR experience, with at least 3 years in a senior management role.
* Strong knowledge of labour laws and HR best practices.
* Experience with HRIS, organisational development, and change management.
Attributes & Behaviours
* High emotional intelligence
* Integrity and strong ethical values
* Ability to work under pressure
* Commitment to diversity, equality, and inclusion
Key Responsibilities
A. Strategic HR Leadership
* Develop and implement HR strategies aligned with organisational objectives.
* Advise executive management on workforce planning and employment trends.
* Drive organisational culture, engagement, and transformation initiatives.
B. Recruitment and Talent Management
* Oversee end-to-end recruitment and onboarding processes.
* Implement talent acquisition strategies to ensure quality hiring.
* Manage succession planning and career development programmes.
C. Employee Relations
* Manage employee relations, conflict resolution, grievance handling, and disciplinary procedures.
* Ensure compliance with labour laws and company policies.
* Promote a positive and inclusive workplace culture.
D. Training and Development
* Identify training needs and develop annual training plans.
* Oversee implementation of skills development programmes.
* Monitor training outcomes and continuous professional development.
E. Performance Management
* Oversee performance appraisal systems and ensure fair evaluations.
* Provide guidance to managers on performance improvement.
* Align performance processes with organisational goals.
F. HR Administration & Compliance
* Ensure accurate HR records, payroll coordination, and HRIS management.
* Develop, review, and update HR policies and procedures.
* Ensure compliance with labour legislation and organisational standards.
G. Compensation & Benefits
* Oversee salary structures, incentives, and employee benefits programmes.
* Participate in budgeting and cost-control initiatives relating to HR.
Additional Information:
* This position will be based in Mowbray, Cape Town
* 12 months Fixed Term Contract
* Full-Time position, 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday
Closing Date: 31 December 2025
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Should you not receive a response within 30 days of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
EMPLOYMENT EQUITY STATEMENT
The University of Cape Town Lung Institute is committed to equity in our employment practices and reserves the right not to appoint.
The selection process will be guided by the Employment Equity Plan and Targets of the University of Cape Town Lung Institute (Pty) Ltd.
POPIA STATEMENT
Please note that when applying for any position, reference checks will be completed, and personal information defined in the protection of personal information Act 4 of 2013 will be processed. In applying for this position, applicants will be deemed to have consented to such processing as defined in the policy statement.
*Please Note: This Position is not on UCT Conditions of Service.