Organisational Development Manager

HR
KwaZulu Natal – South Africa

Organisational Development Manager – Strategic Leadership Role | Manufacturing Sector
 
Are you a seasoned HR and Organisational Development professional looking to make a high-level impact? Our client, a major player in the manufacturing sector, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Organisational Development Manager to lead and deliver transformative people development strategies across the business.
 
This role is central to enabling organisational capability through best-in-class development practices, learning interventions, and change management initiatives. You will work closely with senior leadership and HR teams to build a future-ready workforce and an adaptive, performance-driven culture.
 
Key Responsibilities
  • Contribute to overall business strategy by identifying and building critical people capabilities, behaviours, and structures.
  • Lead and oversee the full spectrum of learning and organisational development initiatives including leadership development, talent management, succession planning, and culture transformation.
  • Design and implement innovative learning programmes that align with business goals, including customised leadership offerings and career development frameworks.
  • Provide strategic direction and execution for all change management initiatives, ensuring alignment with transformation goals and operational priorities.
  • Act as an expert advisor to HR Business Partners and executive leadership on all aspects of people development and organisational design.
  • Develop and lead retention strategies for critical and scarce skills, ensuring workforce sustainability.
  • Monitor and report on training metrics and outcomes, ensuring continuous improvement and business impact.
  • Drive the implementation of coaching, mentoring, and career counselling programmes across the business.
  • Manage compliance with all statutory training and development requirements, including BBBEE, WSP/ATR, and SETA submissions.
  • Lead the organisational learning budget with effective forecasting, planning, and ROI tracking.
  • Partner with external consultants and vendors to support strategic OD initiatives.
  • Conduct organisational assessments to evaluate effectiveness, morale, and performance, and use insights to guide decision-making.
  • Maintain rigorous standards for all development processes, ensuring alignment with best practices and current scientific or professional knowledge.
  • Support the creation of a strong internal employer brand and ensure it is reflected across all HR practices.
 
Requirements
  • Honours degree in Human Resource Management, Organisational Development, Industrial Psychology, or a related discipline.
  • Certificate in Project Management or equivalent qualification.
  • Registration with HPCSA, SIOPSA, or SABPP advantageous.
  • Certification in psychometric assessments will be highly beneficial.
  • A valid Code 08 / EB driver’s licence.
  • A minimum of 8–10 years’ experience in a senior learning and organisational development role, preferably within a manufacturing or industrial environment.
  • Demonstrated experience as a Skills Development Facilitator and working with BBBEE, WSP/ATR, EE, SETA, and compliance-related submissions.
  • Proven ability to manage senior teams and lead large-scale programme implementation.
  • Expertise in coaching, curriculum development, talent management, and leadership development at an organisational level.
  • Strong stakeholder engagement, communication, and project management skills.
  • High attention to detail, professionalism, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
  • Familiarity with agile methodologies and OD/design practices is advantageous.
 
This role offers a unique opportunity to lead cultural transformation and futureproof talent pipelines in a complex and evolving industry. If you’re passionate about developing people, driving innovation in learning, and making an organisational impact, we encourage you to apply.