HR Associate

Job Description: HR Associate

Location: Sandton, Gauteng (Hybrid)

Department: Human Resources

Reports to: HR Manager / COO

Employment Type: Full-Time

About Akiba Digital

Akiba Digital is a cutting-edge risk assessment and behavioral monitoring platform that enables high-volume accountable institutions to adapt to dynamic risks in real time. Our mission is to empower businesses with data-driven decision-making, automated risk workflows, and compliance solutions.

As we continue to scale, we are looking for a proactive and detail-oriented HR Associate to support our growing team by managing recruitment, onboarding, compliance, performance management, and employee engagement.

Role Overview

The HR Associate will play a key role in talent acquisition, employee relations, HR compliance, and operational support. The ideal candidate will have experience in HR administration within a tech, fintech, or startup environment, with a strong understanding of labor laws, HR technology, and organizational culture.

Key Responsibilities

1. Talent Acquisition & Recruitment
   • Support end-to-end recruitment processes, including job postings, screening, and interview coordination.
   • Work closely with hiring managers to ensure a smooth and efficient hiring process.
   • Assist in developing job descriptions, competency frameworks, and hiring scorecards.
   • Maintain candidate databases and applicant tracking systems (ATS).
   • Conduct reference checks and background verifications as needed.
2. Employee Onboarding & Engagement
   • Coordinate new hire onboarding and orientation programs to ensure a seamless experience.
   • Ensure all new employees complete required HR documentation and compliance training.
   • Develop and implement initiatives to enhance employee engagement and company culture.
   • Act as the first point of contact for employee inquiries regarding HR policies and benefits.
3. Compliance & HR Operations
   • Ensure compliance with labor laws (BCEA, POPIA, EEA) and company policies.
   • Maintain accurate employee records, contracts, and HR documentation.
   • Assist in preparing and updating HR policies, procedures, and employee handbooks.
   • Support the HR team with payroll, benefits administration, and leave management.
   • Handle employee data confidentiality and GDPR/POPIA compliance.
4. Performance Management & Development
   • Support the performance review process, ensuring timely feedback cycles.
   • Assist in identifying training and professional development opportunities.
   • Track HR KPIs and analytics, including retention rates, employee engagement, and performance trends.
5. Conflict Resolution & Employee Relations
   • Assist in handling workplace disputes, grievances, and employee concerns.
   • Support managers in performance improvement plans (PIPs) and disciplinary actions.
   • Foster an inclusive, positive, and productive work environment.
6. HR Technology & Automation
   • Manage HR platforms such as HRIS, payroll systems, and ATS to streamline HR processes.
   • Identify and implement automation tools to improve HR workflows.

Required Qualifications & Skills

1. Education & Experience
   • Bachelors degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
   • 2+ years of experience in an HR role, preferably in a tech, fintech, or startup environment.
   • Experience with HRIS, ATS, and payroll software (e.g., BambooHR, Workday, Deel, PaySpace, or similar).
   • Knowledge of South African labor laws (BCEA, POPIA, EEA) and HR compliance.
2. Core Skills
   • Strong knowledge of HR best practices, talent acquisition, and onboarding.
   • Excellent understanding of employee relations, engagement, and performance management.
   • Proficiency in HR analytics and reporting tools.
   • Strong attention to detail, organizational, and administrative skills.
   • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
3. Soft Skills & Mindset
   • Proactive and solution-oriented approach to HR challenges.
   • Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
   • Comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-growth, and dynamic environment.
   • Strong ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• HR certification (e.g., SHRM, CIPD, or similar) is a plus.
• Experience in remote or hybrid workforce management.
• Familiarity with DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives.

Why Join Akiba Digital?

• Be part of an innovative fintech startup disrupting the risk and decisioning space.
• Fast-paced and dynamic environment with opportunities for growth.
• Remote/hybrid work flexibility.
• A culture that values innovation, collaboration, and impact.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.

How To Apply

Interested candidates should submit their CV and a brief cover letter detailing their experience and why they are a good fit for Akiba Digital.

Ready to join our team? Start by clicking the link below.

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