Merilyn Kana
HR Specialist
Stoneridge
Summary
Dynamic and results-oriented Human Resources professional with over 17 years of experience in HR generalist functions, talent management, employee relations, workforce planning, and strategic HR initiatives. Proven track record in driving HR strategies that enhance employee engagement, optimize talent development, and ensure compliance with labor regulations. Adept at aligning HR policies with business objectives, fostering a high-performance culture, and implementing organizational development programs that improve retention and productivity. I am seeking a Senior HR Generalist Management role where I can leverage my strategic expertise to drive HR excellence while supporting operational HR functions.
Organized and dependable candidate successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
HR Specialist
Salt Employee Benefits
12.2022 - Current
- Acting as a strategic HR business partner by conducting weekly HR meetings to support employee relations, HR compliance, and performance management.
- Managing full-cycle talent acquisition: creating job descriptions, posting vacancies, interviewing candidates, and coordinating onboarding.
- Implementing employee retention initiatives, including career development programs, internal promotions, and succession planning.
- Leading HR policy reviews and process improvements in collaboration with external legal consultants.
- Utilizing HR analytics and workforce data to identify trends and provide data-driven HR solutions.
- Handling employee relations cases, including disciplinary actions, grievance resolutions, and investigations, ensuring compliance with labor laws.
- Coaching managers and employees on performance management, career growth, and development planning.
- Designing and executing organizational development and cultural transformation programs to boost engagement and productivity.
- Leading BBBEE and Employment Equity compliance processes, including reporting and audit preparation.
- Supervising payroll operations: auditing payroll data, resolving discrepancies, and managing employee benefits.
- Conducting exit interviews and analyzing findings to improve retention strategies.
- Ensuring compliance with HR legislation, minimizing legal risks and enhancing HR governance.
- Performing skills gap analyses to align employee training with evolving business needs.
- Managing internal communications, public relations initiatives, and corporate social investment (CSI) programs to strengthen brand image and community engagement.
HR Business Partner
Mowana Properties
10.2015 - 02.2022
- Developed and implemented recruitment and selection strategies, managing full-cycle talent acquisition across 10+ departments.
- Collaborated with senior leadership to align HR initiatives with business goals, supporting effective workforce planning and organizational growth.
- Led the rollout of performance management systems, coordinating annual and quarterly review cycles to drive accountability and performance.
- Handled complex employee relations matters, including disciplinary actions, grievance processes, and conflict resolution in accordance with labor laws.
- Directed succession planning and workforce restructuring efforts to maintain business continuity and ensure a strong internal talent pipeline.
- Administered payroll, compensation, and employee benefits, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely processing.
- Oversaw Employment Equity and BBBEE compliance, managing reporting and audits, and advising leadership on transformation and regulatory strategies.
- Supervised and mentored a team of two HR administrators, fostering professional development and operational efficiency.
Talent Development Administrator
AECI
05.2015 - 10.2015
- Managed the administration of the Management Development Program (MDP), supporting leadership development and succession planning initiatives.
- Coordinated and delivered large-scale employee training programs, ensuring alignment with business goals and compliance with regulatory standards.
- Supported performance management cycles by collecting, analyzing, and reporting on employee performance data to identify competency gaps.
- Oversaw end-to-end onboarding and induction processes for over 1,000 employees across multiple regions, ensuring consistent and engaging employee experience.
- Provided HR reporting and workforce analytics to senior leadership to inform strategic planning and data-driven decision-making.
HR Administrator
Kyocera Document Solutions
08.2012 - 12.2014
- Led end-to-end recruitment and onboarding processes, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience for new hires.
- Managed payroll processing, benefits administration, and leave management, ensuring accuracy and compliance with HR policies.
- Contributed to the design and implementation of employee engagement and wellness programs to promote a positive work environment.
- Provided HR advisory support to line managers and employees on workplace policies, procedures, and labor law compliance.
HR Administrator
Sanlam
01.2012 - 07.2012
- Provided support across core HR functions, including recruitment, training coordination, benefits administration, and disciplinary processes.
- Contributed to the development of the company’s first Employee Development Plan, aimed at improving career progression and internal mobility.
- Improved the employee onboarding experience by redesigning the induction program to include comprehensive HR resources, policies, and support materials.
HR Assistant
CSIR
07.2008 - 10.2011
- Managed bursary and studentship programs, ensuring alignment with organizational talent development and skills pipeline strategies.
- Coordinated and facilitated mentorship initiatives to support bursars and students transitioning into full-time employment.
- Supported organizational development projects, including workforce planning, succession planning, and talent management initiatives.
Education
Bcom: Honours - Human Resources Management
Mancosa
01-2020
National Diploma - Human Resources Management
Tshwane University of Technology
01-2011
Matric - undefined
Hoerskool Louis Trichardt
01-2003
Skills
Consultation for business growth
Talent Management
Change Management
People Management
Workforce transformation
Project Management
Succession Planning
Customer Service and Liaison
Timeline
HR Specialist
Salt Employee Benefits
12.2022 - Current
HR Business Partner
Mowana Properties
10.2015 - 02.2022
Talent Development Administrator
AECI
05.2015 - 10.2015
HR Administrator
Kyocera Document Solutions
08.2012 - 12.2014
HR Administrator
Sanlam
01.2012 - 07.2012
HR Assistant
CSIR
07.2008 - 10.2011
Matric - undefined
Hoerskool Louis Trichardt
National Diploma - Human Resources Management
Tshwane University of Technology
Bcom: Honours - Human Resources Management
Mancosa