People & Culture Business Partner

Company Description

Standard Bank Group is a leading Africa-focused financial services group, and an innovative player on the global stage, that offers a variety of career-enhancing opportunities – plus the chance to work alongside some of the sector’s most talented, motivated professionals. Our clients range from individuals, to businesses of all sizes, high net worth families and large multinational corporates and institutions. We’re passionate about creating growth in Africa. Bringing true, meaningful value to our clients and the communities we serve and creating a real sense of purpose for you.

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced and strategic People & Culture Business Partner to join our organisation in Johannesburg, South Africa. In this pivotal contract role, you will act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership and line managers, driving people-focused initiatives that align with our organisational objectives. The successful candidate will combine strong HR expertise with exceptional interpersonal skills, fostering a positive workplace culture whilst ensuring compliance with South African employment legislation.

• Partner with business leaders and managers to understand organisational challenges and develop people-centred solutions that support business strategy and growth
• Manage employee relations matters, including conflict resolution, disciplinary processes, and grievance handling, whilst maintaining confidentiality and fairness
•  Lead talent management initiatives, including succession planning, performance management, and career progression opportunities for high-potential employees
• Design and deliver organisational development programmes and change management strategies to enhance employee engagement and cultural alignment
• Analyse people data and HR metrics to identify trends, inform decision-making, and recommend evidence-based interventions
• Support recruitment and selection processes, ensuring alignment with organisational values and diversity objectives
• Develop and implement employee induction and onboarding programmes to enhance retention and engagement Provide coaching and mentoring to managers on people management best practices and HR policies
• Ensure compliance with South African labour law and company HR policies across all people-related activities
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design and deliver learning and development programmes that build capability and support career development
• Champion organisational culture initiatives and employee engagement activities that foster a positive and inclusive workplace

Qualifications

• Matric, Diploma ,Degree

Required Skills & Experience

• Minimum 5to 10 years' experience in a People & Culture or HR Business Partner role
• Demonstrated expertise in employee relations and conflict resolution
• Strong knowledge of South African employment legislation and labour law
• Proven experience in talent management, performance management, and career development
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to influence at all levels
• Proficiency in analysing HR data and using insights to drive decision-making
• Experience in change management and organisational development initiatives
• Strong people skills with the ability to build trust and credibility with diverse stakeholders
• Excellent time keeping and organisational abilities
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive matters with discretion
• Desirable Skills & Experience:
• Experience with HR information systems (HRIS) and HR technology platforms
• Knowledge of coaching and mentoring methodologies
• Experience in designing and delivering training and development programmes
• Familiarity with employee engagement survey tools and culture assessment models
• Project management experience
• Experience working in a multi-site or matrix organisational structure
• Understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) principles and practices **Domain Expertise:**
•  South African employment law and compliance requirements
• Organisational culture development and modelling
• Employee engagement and retention strategies
• Performance management systems and appraisal processes

Behavioural Competencies:

• Adopting Practical Approaches
• Articulating Information
• Embracing Change
• Establishing Rapport
• Exploring Possibilities
• Interpreting Data
• Inviting Feedback
• Managing Tasks
• Providing Insights
• Taking Action
• Team Working
• Upholding Standards

Technical Competencies:

• Decision Making
• Digital Advocacy
• Inclusive Facilitation
• Integrative Leadership
• Organisational Navigation
• Storytelling

Additional Information

View all current vacancies at Standard Bank Group →

1. Read the full job description and requirements on this page carefully before applying — tailor your application to what the employer actually asks for.
2. Update your CV and save it as a PDF. Make sure your contact details, most recent experience and qualifications are easy to find.
3. Click the apply button on this page to complete your application on Standard Bank Group's own careers site. The employer manages the shortlisting process directly.
4. Have certified copies of your ID and qualifications ready. Many South African employers request them once you are shortlisted.
5. Applications close on 11 September 2026. Submit well before the deadline — late applications are normally not considered.
6. Keep a record of what you submitted and when. If you have not heard back within a few weeks of the closing date, it is acceptable to follow up politely.

If Standard Bank Group shortlists you for the People & Culture Business Partner position, preparation makes the difference. Work through these steps:

• Research Standard Bank Group before the interview — look for their official website, social profiles and any recent news. Interviewers expect you to know why you want to work there specifically.
• Go through the job description above and prepare a specific example from your own experience for each of the main duties. Most interview questions will be drawn from what the advert emphasises.
• Structure your answers with the STAR method — Situation, Task, Action, Result. Concrete stories with measurable outcomes are far stronger than general claims about your abilities.
• Prepare two or three thoughtful questions to ask the panel — about the team, how success is measured in the role, or growth opportunities. It signals genuine interest.
• Plan your logistics early. Confirm whether the interview is in person in Johannesburg or online, and arrive or log in at least ten minutes early.