Human Resource Manager Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
Occupation overview
Plans, organises, directs, controls and coordinates human resource and workplace relations activities within an organisation.
What does a Human Resource Manager do?
A Human Resource Manager leads the people and workplace-relations function of an organisation. The role involves coordinating HR activities, organising processes, directing and controlling work, and helping the organisation manage its workforce effectively. Possible areas of focus include employee relations and organisational transitions.
Specialisations
How to become a Human Resource Manager in South Africa
- Build a foundation through a relevant human-resource or management qualification, such as a Further Education and Training Certificate in Human Resource Management, Human Resources Management and Practices Support, Generic Management: Human Resource Support, or Human Resources and Business Management.
- Consider a Higher Certificate in Human Resource Management as a further possible pathway.
- For more advanced preparation, consider the Advanced Occupational Certificate: Human Resource Management Officer, which is listed at NQF Level 6 and has 134 credits.
- Use education to develop knowledge of human-resource activities and workplace relations, while recognising that management roles commonly also involve workplace progression and increasing responsibility.
- Before enrolling, confirm the current qualification status, admission requirements, provider availability and assessment arrangements with SAQA, the relevant quality council or an accredited provider.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
Relevant education can support entry into the human-resources field and progression towards management. The listed routes include Level 4, Level 5 and Level 6 qualifications, with some described as direct pathways, a possible pathway or related qualifications. A qualification should not be assumed to be a universal requirement for every Human Resource Manager role. The Advanced Occupational Certificate: Human Resource Management Officer is listed as registered until 14 November 2028; verify its current status and availability before making study decisions.
Useful school subjects
- English
- Business Studies
- Economics
- Accounting
- Computer Applications Technology
Skills that may help
- Planning and organising
- Directing and coordinating activities
- Controlling and monitoring work
- Managing workplace-relations activities
- Human-resource administration and support
- Organisational decision-making