CEO as Chairperson of the Employment Equity Committee
In my career spanning over three decades in corporate governance and human resources, I’ve witnessed a recurring query from unions and other vested parties that often sparks debate: Can the CEO serve as the Chairperson of the Employment Equity Committee? The short answer is the LRA, BCEA, and Employment Equity Act.
The Legal Perspective: A Green Light for CEOs
The straightforward answer is yes. A CEO can indeed take on the role of Chairperson of the Employment Equity Committee. This decision is more than a legal compliance issue; it’s a strategic choice reflecting the company’s commitment to employment equity. The legal frameworks, including the LRA, BCEA, and Employment Equity Act, do not bar top management, including the CEO, from assuming this pivotal role.
CEO as the Employer’s Representative: A Strategic Move
In my tenure as advisor, I observed the impact of having the CEO at the helm of the Employment Equity Committee. It strongly conveys the company’s dedication to equity and inclusiveness. The CEO, as the employer’s representative, can bring a strategic vision and authority to the committee, driving meaningful changes.
The Power of Nomination: Inclusive Leadership
Another crucial aspect is the CEO’s power to nominate any member of the Workplace Forum to act as chairperson. This move can empower individuals within the organization, fostering a culture of inclusion and shared responsibility.
Beyond Compliance: A Holistic Approach
The role of the CEO in this capacity goes beyond mere legal compliance. It’s about embedding the ethos of equity and fairness into the organizational fabric. As leaders and management, we ensure these values are not just tick-box exercises but are genuinely ingrained in the company culture.
Find more information on how to implement employment equity in my other articles or visit our website to enrol for the next employment equity training course.
Are you having difficulty with employment equity?
Please don’t hesitate to contact me.
By Stephan du Toit
Senior Advisor Employment Equity.
Website: employmentequity.co.za
eMail: info@employmentequity.co.za
WhatsApp +27825613022
Landline: +27212505007
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Reference.
- South African Government. “Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995.” www.gov.za. https://www.gov.za/documents/labour-relations-act.
- South African Government. “Basic Conditions of Employment Act 75 of 1997.” www.gov.za. https://www.gov.za/documents/basic-conditions-employment-act.
- South African Government. “Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998.” www.gov.za. https://www.gov.za/documents/employment-equity-act.
- South African Government. “Employment Equity Act: Code of Good Practice: Integration of Employment Equity into Human Resource Policies and Practices: Amendment.” www.gov.za. https://www.gov.za/documents/employment-equity-act-code-good-practice-integration-employment-equity-human-resource.
