TRANSNET is looking for a dynamic and strategic leader to fill the role of General Manager within its People Management function. This role is pivotal in leading and executing the people management strategy across the organisation, ensuring alignment with business goals and fostering a high-performance, inclusive, and values-driven culture.

Purpose of the Role

The General Manager will drive the development and implementation of a comprehensive people management strategy that supports organisational performance, transformation, and workforce optimisation. This role provides strategic direction to ensure the effective deployment of talent, strong labour relations, and a culture of service excellence. It also plays a critical role in embedding the organisation’s values and leading the overall people agenda across Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM).

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of a people management strategy aligned with Transnet’s overall business and operating model.

• Drive initiatives to foster business growth, talent development, and a high-performance culture.

• Shape and promote a compelling employee value proposition to attract and retain top talent and scarce skills.

• Champion a robust performance management system linked to operational efficiency and incentive structures.

• Oversee strategic labour relations and collective bargaining processes, ensuring productive engagement with unions.

• Guide the design and implementation of a union engagement strategy that supports a healthy labour environment.

• Drive employment equity, diversity, and inclusion to ensure meaningful and sustainable workplace transformation.

• Lead disciplinary processes to ensure fair and efficient resolution of employee relations matters.

• Implement change management and transformation programmes aligned with strategic priorities.

• Oversee employee health and wellness initiatives to support workforce wellbeing.

• Guide the development of skills and capacity in key operational areas to future-proof the organisation.

• Lead strategic workforce planning to ensure optimal deployment and productivity.

• Drive the implementation of digital tools and systems to enhance the delivery of people management services.

• Oversee people-related transactional and administrative services in coordination with Group Shared Services.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management or a related discipline.

• Minimum of 12 years’ experience in a large, complex organisation, with at least 5 years in a senior management position.

• Alternatively, 12 years of relevant experience in the rail or related industry, with 8 years at senior management level in a complex operational environment.

• Postgraduate qualifications are advantageous.

• Demonstrated integrity and financial accountability in line with the National Credit Act Amendment 19.

• Willingness to undergo a lifestyle audit.

Standard Requirements

• Valid Code 8 driver’s license.

• Willingness to travel in accordance with business needs.

Core Competencies

• Strategic thinking and sustainability planning

• Inspirational and ethical leadership

• Effective business performance and results delivery

• Strong relationship and stakeholder management

• Corporate governance and compliance adherence

• Personal mastery and self-leadership

Equity Statement

TRANSNET is committed to transformation and employment equity. Preference will be given to suitably qualified applicants from designated groups in accordance with the organisation’s Employment Equity Plan and Targets.

This role is suited for a seasoned General Manager ready to lead the people function of a large and evolving organisation, with a clear focus on enabling business success through people.