With over 20 years of experience in Human Resources and Skills Development, I bring extensive expertise in HR management, talent acquisition, training and development, industrial relations, and BBBEE compliance. I am an experienced facilitator of both accredited and non-accredited programmes, as well as a professional coach, with a strong track record of developing people and building organisational capability. I have successfully led large-scale training initiatives, secured SETA grants, driven transformation targets, and partnered with business leaders to deliver measurable business and people outcomes. Through the creation of sustainable talent pipelines via graduate and learnership programmes, I achieved significant cost savings while expanding opportunities for unemployed learners and enabling internal career progression—fostering a culture of learning, development, and engagement. These initiatives, together with other strategic interventions, contributed to consistent year-on-year improvements in the BBBEE scorecard over a four-year period. I am a resilient, adaptable team player who thrives in agile environments and is eager to contribute strategic, people-focused solutions to an organisation aligned with my expertise and values. Since April 2025, I have focused on enhancing my coaching expertise and providing HR consulting support to small businesses.
Hi, I’m
Chantal Celeste Petersen
Skills Development Facilitator/Lead | HR Professional | Talent Development Specialist/Trainer/Executive Coach
Cape Town,WC
Summary
Overview
25
years of professional experience
2
Languages
Work History
Pepsico Sub Saharan Africa
Skills Development Lead
04.2021 - 04.2025
Job overview
- Staff compliment
- 11 500
- Following the acquisition of Pioneer Foods, the responsibilities of two SDF roles were merged. In this capacity, I led the accredited training portfolio for over 11,000 employees.
- Secured annual Discretionary Grant funding from the FoodBev SETA.
- Delivered accurate and timely submission of Workplace Skills Plans (WSP) in line with legislative and SETA requirements.
- Designed and executed learning and absorption strategies, contributing to sustaining the company’s Level 4 status.
- Built and maintained strong partnerships with accredited training providers.
- Presented strategic Skills Development progress updates to National Skills Development priorities.
- Spearheaded the implementation of targeted training solutions, including learnerships, skills programmes, apprenticeships, and internships, enabling career progression.
- Managed the Employee Bursary Scheme, supporting career advancement.
- Administered the Employee Dependent Bursary Scheme to strengthen employee engagement.
- Learning Programme Oversight: Managed approximately 650 accredited training programmes, ensuring upskilling and compliance with regulatory standards.
- Reason for Leaving: Exploring entrepreneurial opportunities and focus on professional growth
Pepsico
Human Resources Manager
09.2014 - 04.2021
Job overview
- Recruited, developed, and retained high-calibre talent in line with recruitment strategies.
- Implemented HR generalist initiatives, including performance management processes to enhance workforce engagement and productivity.
- Developed and executed staffing strategies, successfully filling critical roles.
- Conducted exit interviews and applied insights to improve retention and engagement.
- Oversaw onboarding and induction programmes, ensuring smooth integration.
- Managed wellness programmes and social initiatives, enhancing employee well-being.
- Supported performance management processes and PMP calibration.
- Directed employee relations processes at plant level, advising management on improvement plans to maintain a positive ER climate.
- Chaired monthly union meetings, fostering healthy labour relations and engagement.
- Led People Planning initiatives, identifying and developing high performing talent.
- Facilitated quarterly roundtable discussions to improve staff morale, engagement, and organisational culture.
- Reason for Leaving: Transitioned to a new role within the company to take on increased responsibilities and broaden my experience
Faurecia Emissions Control Technologies
Talent Specialist
07.2013 - 08.2014
Job overview
- Staff compliment
- 800+
- Focused on recruitment for senior technical roles, including managing multiple expatriate placements and French VIE contract assignments.
- Led the design and execution of leadership development programs for mid- and senior-level managers.
- Supported the Ford Q1 accreditation process by implementing assessment programs for the management team, identifying strengths and development areas, and delivering targeted management development initiatives.
- Reason for Leaving: Moved back to FMCG environment - Simba
Heinz Foods SA Pty Ltd
Human Resource Manager/Talent Management & Recruitment
06.2012 - 08.2012
Job overview
- Staff compliment:
- 450+ (casual component of 350)
- People reporting to me:
- 2 (payroll clerk, HR clerk)
- Indirect - clinic sister
- Recruitment:
- Initiated and managed SLA with various recruitment agencies.
- Selection of the correct advertising medium based on the readership and target market.
- Liaised with business on correct job specification.
- Compiled structured outcomes based interview guides and customize it according to the business needs.
- Conducted telephonic screenings with shortlisted candidates prior to the interview process.
- Decided on the suitable assessment tool/battery and arrange assessments with the psychometrist.
- Interpreted assessment feedback with assistance from psychometrist when required.
- Compiled offer of appointment & managed the on-boarding process.
- Training & Development:
- Compiled the training policy and communicate with all stakeholder.s
- Ensured that the actual training process are in line with the policy by training the trainers.
- Provided input in terms of HR related training initiatives for budgeting purposes.
- Ensured that the training documents are updated on a regular basis and communicated to all stakeholders.
- Provided direction in terms of the development programs of individuals by ensuring that the training needs are aligned with the performance management tool.
- Coordinate the development programs of individuals by ensuring that the training needs are aligned with the performance management tool.
- Managed and coordinated the training needs analysis process with the various stakeholders.
- Tracking of training planned and the execution thereof via the training matrix.
- Oversee and in certain cases assist with the arrangement of the actual training sessions.
- Manage the training costs in line with the training budget.
- Guide the team in terms of the correct recording and filing of training documents.
- Conduct sessions with department heads afterwards to determine the effectiveness of the training.
- Industrial Relations:
- Compiled disciplinary procedure and communicate it during induction process.
- Assisted line managers during disciplinary proceedings to ensure a procedural fair process.
- Advised staff on the appeal procedure and ensure that it is handled within the required time frame.
- Represent the company at the CCMA.
- Attend monthly union and management meetings.
- Payroll:
- Approve monthly salary reconciliations for all four units.
- Ensure all payroll documentation is accurate and compliant with the SLA and company policy.
- Verify that salary packages are correct and aligned with the approved budget.
- Implementation of a new recruitment strategy across all sites.
- 100% Compliance ito training process in line with Heinz Foods Quality Management System.
- Reason for Leaving: Stepped away from full-time employment to support my family during a critical time
Heinz Foods SA Pty Ltd
Human Resources Manager II
02.2008 - 05.2012
Job overview
- Manage the Human Resource function for Heinz SA, with focus on the Human Resource function for the Wellington Office in Paarl. Responsible for attracting, selecting, developing & retaining talent for the various business units with a Group responsibility into training and development.
- Staff compliment:
- 150+ casual labour force of 50
- Assisted with organization design and development efforts to improve business results.
- Translate business objectives into human resource and OD strategies and plans.
- Provide consultative business and human resources advice to line leadership.
- Handle all recruiting, induction, training and development of staff.
- Addressed and resolved employee relations issues which includes supporting line management.
- Initiated employee and leadership development activities.
- Implemented and improve HR processes to drive improved business results and organizational development.
- Management of payroll related activities (SAP) and recon of salary inputs.
- Maintain Legal compliance on all HR matters.
- Responsible for compiling and management of annual Human Resources budget.
- Facilitating (chairing) Equity/training forum.
- Responsible for completion of Equity Report/Plan (includes all four sites).
- Responsible for completion of WSP & WSPIR (includes all 4 sites.)
- Member of BBBEE/CSI forum.
- Spearheaded CSI projects in Wellington, enhancing community development and footprint.
- Ensure that all policies & procedures adhere to the Quality Risk Management System of Heinz International and prepare department for annual audits.
- Implementation of E-Learning of Heinz Foods SA and official administrator of the system.
- Align HR policies and procedures in line with the Total Quality Management System.
- Take ownership of the training standard of Heinz Foods and roll out programs to all sites.
- Developed and implemented the company’s recruitment procedure to ensure compliance with the Total Quality Management System.
- Developed and rolled out HR policies and procedures across all units.
- Achieved 100% compliance in training audit, demonstrating full adherence to the Total Quality Management System.
- Established Equity/training committees to ensure there is transparency and accountability in the process.
- Reason for Leaving: Transitioned to a broader portfolio within the same company to expand scope and responsibilities
Bokomo Moir’s
Human Resources Manager I
01.2005 - 01.2007
Job overview
- Managed the Human Resources function for Pioneer Foods’ Moir’s business unit, attracting, developing, and retaining talent. Provided full HR support to the manufacturing operations, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
- Staff compliment:
- 150 employees
- Direct reports
- 2 (payroll clerks)
- Clinic sister
- Assist with organization design and development efforts to improve business results.
- Translate business objectives into human resource and OD strategies and plans.
- Provide consultative business and human resources advice to line leadership.
- Handle recruitment, induction, training and development.
- Responsible for completion of WSP; WSPIR & Equity Report for the site in line with legislative requirements.
- Address and resolve employee relations issues.
- Chair monthly management and union meetings and close out action list.
- Provide clear guidelines to line management in terms of the disciplinary process.
- Assist employees as well to ensure we fairness in the role of HR.
- Assist line managers to formulate disciplinary charges and ensure that the process is fair.
- Update disciplinary records.
- Arrange IR training for all line managers to ensure alignment with our company policies.
- Visibility during the disciplinary hearing – attend all disciplinary hearings.
- Initiate employee and leadership development activities.
- Implement and improve HR processes to drive improved business results and organizational development.
- Management of monthly payroll input and signing of recon.
- Drive strategies that retain, develop and attract employees.
- Maintain Legal compliance on all HR matters.
- Involve with various IR related issues including restructuring of business.
- Management of occupational health sister on site and working together with the clinic sister.
- Transfer of staff from external payroll agency (CRS) onto SAP Payroll.
- Implementation of HR systems; i.e.: personnel files, alignment of procedures and processes.
- Assist line managers to address personnel issues in order to run shifts without any disruptions.
- Transfer of staff from one operating unit to a different operating unit.
- Reason for Leaving: Better opportunity
Pioneer Fishing
Human Resources Clerk
01.2000 - 12.2004
Job overview
- Staff compliment:
- 500
- Provided HR generalist support to line managers across all people-related functions.
- Sourced and managed training providers, compiled the annual training schedule.
- Facilitated employee induction programmes to ensure smooth integration.
- Assisted in compiling Workplace Skills Plans (WSP), Workplace Skills Implementation Plans (WSIP).
- Coordinated Equity Forum meetings and served as secretary for the Western Cape region.
- Acted as the key contact for medical aid and provident fund administration.
- Administered staff compensation and benefits, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
- Industrial Relations:
- Chaired disciplinary hearings and provided guidance to supervisors throughout the process.
- Acted as secretary during monthly union–management meetings and managed action list.
- Served as a member of the central negotiation team, contributing to discussions and agreements.
- Represented the company at the CCMA, ensuring effective case preparation and representation.
- Recruitment
- Advertised vacant and new positions through appropriate channels to attract suitable candidates.
- Shortlisted suitable applicants based on role requirements and organisational fit.
- Coordinated and scheduled interviews, ensuring an efficient and professional process.
- Reason for Leaving: Better opportunity
Education
University of Stellenbosch Business School
Management Development Program
01-2008
University Overview
Industrial Relations Program
RAU
from Education, Training & Development
01-2004
University Overview
University of Stellenbosch
BA Degree from Psychology & Sociology
01-1998
University Overview
Learnership, 1-year programme
Weston High SchoolVredenburg, South Africa
High School Diploma
04.2001
University Overview
Skills
Strategic HR & Skills Development
Learning & Development Strategy
SDF, SETA & BBBEE Compliance
Accredited & Non-Accredited Facilitation
Coaching, Mentoring & Leadership Development
Change & Transformation Management
Talent Pipeline & Learnership Programmes
Stakeholder & Executive Engagement
Organisational Capability Building
Industrial & Employee Relations
Change management
MS Word
Excel
Accomplishments
Accomplishments
- Exceeded BBBEE Skills Development targets, achieving 14 points improvement from a Level 6 to Level 2 Contributor
- Foodbev Seta Silver Award: Awarded for exceptional Skills Development utilisation, and achieving high post-programme absorption rates
- Standard Bank Women’s Award: Selected as one of 13 finalists from 200 applicants for innovation in Skills Development delivery
- Apprenticeship Programme: Successfully qualified 40+ apprentices for trade tests in 2024 and 2025
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): Enabled 20+ employees to achieve formal qualifications
- SETA Grant Management: Secured and managed approximately R11 million in funding for the business.
- Bursary Programmes: Awarded and administered 250+ employee and dependent bursaries, supporting programme execution and employee development.
- Implementation of a new recruitment strategy across all sites.
- 100% Compliance ito training process in line with Heinz Foods Quality Management System.
- Transfer of staff from external payroll agency (CRS) onto SAP Payroll.
- Implementation of HR systems; i.e.: personnel files, alignment of procedures and processes.
- Assist line managers to address personnel issues in order to run shifts without any disruptions.
- Transfer of staff from one operating unit to a different operating unit.
Timeline
Skills Development Lead
Pepsico Sub Saharan Africa
04.2021 - 04.2025
Human Resources Manager
Pepsico
09.2014 - 04.2021
Talent Specialist
Faurecia Emissions Control Technologies
07.2013 - 08.2014
Human Resource Manager/Talent Management & Recruitment
Heinz Foods SA Pty Ltd
06.2012 - 08.2012
Human Resources Manager II
Heinz Foods SA Pty Ltd
02.2008 - 05.2012
Human Resources Manager I
Bokomo Moir’s
01.2005 - 01.2007
Weston High School
High School Diploma
04.2001
Human Resources Clerk
Pioneer Fishing
01.2000 - 12.2004
RAU
from Education, Training & Development
University of Stellenbosch
BA Degree from Psychology & Sociology
University of Stellenbosch Business School
Management Development Program