Country HR Business Partner - Australia

Overview

The Country HR Business Partner for Australia is responsible for acting as both the strategic and operational lead for HR activities across the corporate headquarters and retail stores. This role requires comprehensive expertise throughout all HR functions, a thorough knowledge of Australian employment legislation, and the ability to independently manage the full employee lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end recruitment and onboarding processes for corporate and retail roles, implementing inclusive and effective selection strategies.
• Oversee payroll administration alongside external Australian payroll providers, transitioning to standard local payroll systems such as ADP, ensuring statutory compliance for superannuation, leave entitlements, and taxation.
• Serve as the main HR contact for retail store managers, addressing employee relations issues including grievances, disciplinary matters, and performance improvement plans; collaborate with external legal counsel on disputes and litigation.
• Maintain accurate HRIS systems, ensure digital employee records compliance, and standardize HR processes for leave, benefits, and performance evaluations, moving away from outdated manual methods.
• Implement tailored performance management frameworks for both office and retail staff, identify learning and development needs, and support career progression opportunities.
• Update and enforce the Australian Employee Handbook, ensuring compliance with Modern Awards, National Employment Standards (NES), Fair Work Australia regulations, and workplace safety requirements.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Senior-level experience as an HR Generalist or HR Business Partner with the ability to balance strategic initiatives with day-to-day operations.
• Minimum 5 years' HR experience, preferably within retail or corporate environments.
• In-depth knowledge and practical experience with Australian employment law and payroll systems.
• Demonstrated capability to work effectively within matrix or dual-reporting organizational structures.
• Fluent proficiency in English is essential; knowledge of Italian is highly desirable to facilitate communication with international headquarters.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to develop robust relationships with local store managers, executive leadership, and corporate teams.