Employee Relations Specialist (Consultant)

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Mastercard Foundation is a global foundation based in Toronto, Canada. Our programs promote financial inclusion and advance youth learning in Africa. The Foundation was established in 2006 through the generosity of Mastercard when it became a public company. From inception, the Foundation was designed to be a separate entity and independent from Mastercard. Our policies, operations and funding decisions are made by our President and Board of Directors. The Foundation believes that every person has the potential to transform their lives and improve the lives of their families and communities. The Foundation collaborates with partners to advance sustainable and scalable solutions in microfinance and youth learning, focusing on countries that face high rates of poverty and growing numbers of out-of-school youth. Much of this work will be accomplished by building strong institutions in developing countries – particularly Africa – and investing in robust evaluation and learning agendas.The Foundation values innovative and fresh thinking as it strives to become a global thought-leader. Its work is achieved by a strategic, nimble and highly entrepreneurial team with a proactive and results-oriented approach to its philanthropic activities. The organization’s culture is shaped by people who are driven and passionate about the Foundation’s mission.COUNTRY OFFICE IN KIGALI, RWANDAMastercard Foundation is opening an office in Rwanda to support two new initiatives: Rwanda Employment and Enterprise Development Initiative (REEDI) will increase productive employment for young people; expand access to financial inclusion for tourism related businesses and improve the capabilities of, and coordination between, key stakeholders, in the tourism and hospitality industry; and, Secondary Education Teachers’ Initiative which seeks to improve the quality of teaching and learning in secondary schools.An office in Kigali provides an opportunity to oversee the management and implementation of the two initiatives, drive the country-level coordination of all Foundation interventions and represent the Foundation at a country level in close liaison with senior management in Toronto, Canada.

JOB SUMMARY

RequirementsBachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Industrial Relations, Law, or related field. 8 to 10 years’ experience in Employee Relations or Industrial Relations within Africa Strong knowledge of African labor laws and dispute resolution mechanisms. Excellent communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills. Ability to handle sensitive and confidential matters with discretion. Certification in HR/IR (e.g., SABPP, CIPD, or equivalent).  Experience in multinational or pan‑African organizations. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

As a consultant, the Employee Relations Specialist will strengthen the Foundation’s policies and procedures ensuring compliance with labor laws.  Advisory & Compliance Provide expert guidance to P&C business Partners and employees on ER policies, disciplinary procedures, and labor law compliance.  Ensure alignment with local employment legislation (e.g., South Africa’s Labour Relations Act, Kenya’s Employment Act, Nigeria’s Labour Act, etc.). Monitor and report on ER metrics, grievances, and dispute trends. Conflict Resolution & Case Management Ensure the Investigation and resolution of grievances, misconduct cases, and workplace disputes. Develop strategies to minimize workplace conflict. Stakeholder Engagement Policy Development, update & Training Draft, review, and implement ER policies and procedures. Conduct training for managers and employees on ER best practices, conflict resolution, and workplace ethics. Promote employee engagement and a positive workplace culture. Employee relations risk identification and mitigation/management Conduct audits to ensure compliance with ER policies and labor laws and recommend actions Works closely with: Legal, Compliance, P&C Business Partners, Enterprise Risk Management 

REQUIRED SKILLS

Communication, Business management, Human resource and personnel development, Talent management and planning

REQUIRED EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree