Labour Relations Specialist / Employee Relations Advisor

At EY, you’ll build a career with global scale, inclusive support and opportunities to grow, while helping us build a better working world. Job description As an Employee Relations Specialist / Labour Relations Advisor, you will support and manage employee relations matters end-to-end, including disciplinary processes, grievances, performance and probation matters, retrenchment support, CCMA-related processes and business transition matters. The opportunity You will provide practical guidance to Talent, Managers and business stakeholders, helping to assess issues, manage risk, apply policy consistently and reach fair, well‑documented outcomes. You will advise and provide integral support on policy interpretation, misconduct, incapacity, performance management and other workplace matters, escalating complex or high‑risk issues where required. Complex, sensitive or high‑risk matters will be escalated to Employee Relations leadership or Investigation stakeholders as appropriate. You will maintain accurate ER records, support reporting, be meticulous in matter‑record annotations and trend analysis, and contribute to continuous improvement of ER policies, processes and tools. Your key responsibilities Manage a portfolio of employee and labour relations matters, including complex or sensitive cases involving managers, partners or senior stakeholders. Assess each matter, determine the appropriate process, gather relevant information, document findings and recommend practical next steps. Partner with stakeholders such as Talent, General Counsel Office (GCO), Quality & Risk Management (Q&RM), Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and business leadership to ensure matters are managed consistently, confidentially and in line with EY requirements. Maintain complete and accurate case records, reporting updates and supporting documentation in the relevant ER systems. Identify trends and recommend training, communication or process improvements to reduce risk and improve employee relations outcomes. Skills and attributes for success Experience resolving complex employee relations matters including those involving Firm Leadership (PPMDDs). High levels of confidentiality, discretion and professional judgement. Sound knowledge of South African labour relations principles, employment legislation and HR/ER best practice. Critical thinking skills that allow you to manage complex employee situations. Ability to prepare clear, accurate and well‑structured case summaries, outcome documents, reports and stakeholder communications. Strong interviewing, fact‑finding and evidence assessment skills. Strong planning and prioritisation skills, with the ability to manage multiple matters under tight timelines. To qualify for this role, you must have 5+ years related work experience. Ability to engage professionally and confidentially with stakeholders at all levels. Strong attention to detail, time management and prioritisation skills, with a solid track record of managing multiple projects/cases simultaneously. Excellent written communication skills and an ability to convey complex facts, perspectives, and conclusions in a way that’s clear to any audience; experience with legal writing preferred. Strong interviewing and stakeholder engagement skills. Ability to build trusted relationships across Talent, Legal, Risk and business teams, and to influence multiple constituents and engage in respectful dialogue in cases of disagreement. Solid networking skills and the ability to build relationships. Ability to work independently on recurring matters, while seeking guidance on complex or high‑risk issues. Relevant bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience; HR qualification, industrial psychology, labour law or a related field preferred. Ideally, you’ll also have Additional training or certification in labour relations, employment law, investigations, mediation, conflict management or HR practice would be advantageous. Ability to quickly learn the business of the Firm or have a solid understanding of internal practices and procedures. What we look for We are looking for a practical, trusted and solutions‑focused advisor who can apply sound judgement, manage sensitive matters with discretion and support fair, consistent employee relations outcomes. Experienced professionals who are strategic, collaborative, and consultative and who can bring a fresh perspective will thrive in this environment. #J-18808-Ljbffr EY