DEPUTY DIRECTOR: EMPLOYEE RELATIONS (DISPUTE RESOLUTIONS, MISCONDUCT AND LITIGATION)

This position offers a challenging opportunity for a seasoned labour relations professional to lead dispute resolution, misconduct management, and litigation processes within the Employee Relations directorate of a provincial health department. Based at the head office in Cape Town, with the work station situated on the premises of Stikland Hospital, the Deputy Director will operate in a demanding environment that requires sound judgement, legal precision, and the ability to manage multiple high-stakes matters simultaneously. The role is central to ensuring that the department handles labour disputes, disciplinary proceedings, and court cases in a manner that is legally compliant, procedurally fair, and aligned with broader public sector employment obligations.

Candidates must hold an appropriate three-year National Degree or Diploma in Law, specifically an LLB or a qualification focused on Labour Law. In addition to this formal qualification, the post requires substantial, appropriate experience in the handling and management of labour disputes, including conciliation and arbitration processes, as well as proven involvement in misconduct cases and labour court litigation. Managerial experience is also essential, as the successful applicant will oversee staff within the sub-directorate responsible for disputes and litigation. The ideal candidate will possess sound knowledge of all relevant labour legislation and other laws applicable to the health sector, along with practical expertise in the dispute resolution mechanisms of the CCMA and relevant bargaining councils. Familiarity with Labour Court procedures, strong communication and interpersonal skills, basic computer literacy, and the ability to perform under pressure are all key to success in this role.

The duties are wide-ranging and carry significant responsibility. The Deputy Director will provide formal legal advice and guidance to stakeholders on labour disputes, misconduct, and litigation matters, and will research, analyse, and evaluate applicable legislation and case law. The role also involves developing and presenting learning outcomes and training sessions on misconduct, disputes, and labour court matters, as well as managing and presenting evidence in formal proceedings. Attendance and active participation at employee relations forums is required, including presenting case law updates. Beyond these technical functions, the position entails direct management of staff within the disputes and litigation sub-directorate, and the incumbent will act as the Director of Employee Relations in the Director’s absence. This is therefore a senior leadership role that combines legal expertise with operational management and strategic oversight.

Applicants should note that no payment of any kind is required when applying for this post, and the position is advertised within a circular from the provincial administration. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced labour law practitioner seeking to make a meaningful contribution to public sector employment relations in a health service context.