JOB TITLE: SPECIALIST: HR GOVERNANCE, RISK AND COMPLIANCE REPORTING LINE: HEAD: TRANSFORMATION MANAGEMENT DIVISION: HUMAN RESOURCES SCALE CODE: 300 (Paterson D1, Peromnes 7) POSITION ID: 60023550 CLOSING DATE : 17 MAY 2026 PURPOSE OF POSITION: The purpose of the HR Governance, Risk and Compliance Specialist role is to support the effective implementation and continuous improvement of governance, risk management and compliance practices within the Human Resources function by ensuring that policies, processes and systems are aligned to legislative requirements and organisational standards. The role is responsible for monitoring compliance, identifying and mitigating HR-related risks, supporting audits and assurance processes, and providing expert guidance to HR stakeholders to strengthen internal controls, enhance operational integrity, and ensure consistent, compliant and efficient HR service delivery. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
* STRATEGIC SUPPORT AND TECHNICAL EXPERTISE
* Support the development and implementation of HR governance, risk and compliance frameworks, plans and initiatives.
* Provide subject matter expertise on governance, risk and compliance within the HR function.
* Translate strategic HR governance requirements into operational processes and controls.
* Support HR Business Partners (HRBPs) and Centres of Excellence (COEs) with governance-related guidance and solutions.
* BUSINESS OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY (Governance, Risk and Compliance /GRC   Opps)
* Implement and maintain HR governance policies, procedures and controls in line with legislation and best practice.
* Conduct regular HR compliance reviews and risk assessments to identify gaps and areas of exposure.
* Support and coordinate HR audits (internal and external), including preparation, facilitation and follow-ups.
* Track and monitor audit findings, ensuring timely implementation of corrective action plans.
* Maintain risk registers and compliance checklists for the HR function.
* Liaise with Internal Audit, Risk, Compliance and other assurance providers to ensure alignment and information flow.
* Prepare governance, risk and compliance reports.
* HR SERVICE DELIVERY AND GRC SUPPORT
* Support the development and maintenance of HR Service Level Agreements (SLAs).
* Monitor adherence to SLAs and highlight non-compliance or service gaps.
* Provide guidance to internal stakeholders on HR policies, procedures and service standards.
* HR PROCESS AND CONTROL MANAGEMENT 
* Analyse HR processes to identify control weaknesses, inefficiencies and compliance risks.
* Recommend and support implementation of process improvements and standardisation initiatives.
* Collaborate with HRSS to ensure systems support compliance, governance and risk mitigation requirements.
* HR PROJECT MANAGEMENT (GRC Related)
* Support the planning and coordination of HR governance, risk and compliance projects.
* Track project milestones, deliverables and timelines.
* Provide regular updates on project progress and risks. Support budget tracking for GRC-related initiatives where required.
* GOVERNANCE, RISK AND COMPLIANCE
* Maintain and update HR compliance frameworks, policies and procedures.
* Develop and implement compliance monitoring tools, dashboards and checklists.
* Monitor adherence to relevant legislation, regulations and internal policies impacting HR.
* Support policy reviews and updates in line with legislative changes and audit findings.
* Deliver or support compliance and risk awareness sessions for HR teams and stakeholders INHERENT/MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS QUALIFICATIONS National Diploma (NQF 6) and/or Degree (NQF7) in:
* Human Resources
* Governance, Risk and Compliance
* Internal Audit / Risk Management or related field EXPERIENCE
* Minimum 3–5 years’ experience in HR Governance, Risk and Compliance or a related field.
* Experience in HR compliance monitoring, audits and risk assessments.
* Exposure to HR systems and process improvement initiatives.
* Experience supporting internal and external audits.
* Project coordination experience (not necessarily full project management ownership). KNOWLEDGE
* Advanced knowledge of industry processes and regulations.
* Advanced knowledge of reporting procedures and record keeping.
* Excellent knowledge of Enterprise Risk Management principles, processes and methodologies.
* Advanced knowledge and understanding of governance, compliance and risk guidelines, policies and relevant legislation regulating HR processes and procedures.
* Solid project management knowledge.
* Good auditing and statistical analysis skills.
* Ability to formulate compliance policies, procedures and process mapping.
* Excellent computer and research skills.
* Good interpersonal and relationship management skills.
* Excellent Written and verbal communication skills.
* Ability to work under pressure with minimum supervision.
* Excellent prioritizing and planning skills.
* Excellent creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
* Risk assessment capabilities.