Job Description: HR Manager – Colombo

We are hiring an HR Manager to lead our human resources function at our Colombo office. This role involves managing the end-to-end HR operations of the organization, ensuring compliance with labor laws, and developing people practices that are practical, respectful, and aligned with our operational needs.

The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing all core HR functions including recruitment, on boarding, payroll, performance management, and employee relations. You will work closely with department heads and senior management to support a productive and respectful working environment across all levels of staff.

Position Summary:

As the HR Manager, you will lead the Human Resources department and take direct responsibility for both strategic and day-to-day HR activities. Your role will be central in developing and maintaining HR systems that support organizational efficiency and legal compliance.

This role is suited for someone who is practical, firm when necessary, and confident working with staff and managers across a range of roles—from junior admin teams to senior executives. You will be a resource person for policy implementation, employee guidance, and conflict resolution, while also ensuring accurate HR documentation and reporting.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Recruitment and Onboarding

Manage the full recruitment cycle including job postings, screening, interviews, and final selection.
Collaborate with department heads to understand staffing needs and forecast hiring requirements.
Ensure onboarding processes are timely, compliant, and effective in preparing new hires for their roles.

2. HR Policy and Compliance

Maintain and update HR policies in line with changing labor laws and company requirements.
Ensure all HR procedures, contracts, and documentation comply with statutory regulations.
Lead internal audits related to HR and liaise with legal counsel as needed.

3. Payroll and Attendance

Oversee payroll processing and ensure accuracy in salary disbursement, deductions, and statutory contributions (EPF/ETF, taxes, etc.).
Monitor attendance, leave records, and working hours to ensure transparency and fairness.
Work with finance and IT to ensure systems used for time tracking and payroll are reliable and current.

4. Performance Management

Support the implementation of performance review cycles and employee evaluations.
Assist managers in setting performance goals and handling underperformance.
Coordinate feedback processes and maintain relevant documentation.

5. Employee Relations and Grievance Handling

Act as the point of contact for employees seeking advice on HR matters, concerns, or disputes.
Conduct fair investigations into complaints or disciplinary issues, and ensure appropriate action is taken.
Promote a working environment that values respect, fairness, and open communication.

6. Training and Development

Identify training needs in coordination with team leads and department heads.
Organize internal or external training sessions and track participation and outcomes.
Maintain records of all staff development activities and their impact.

7. Reporting and HR Metrics

Maintain up-to-date personnel files, HR databases, and reporting systems.
Provide regular reports to senior management on key HR indicators such as staff turnover, absenteeism, and recruitment timelines.
Prepare HR dashboards and help identify trends or areas for improvement.

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management, Business Administration, or related field.
At least 5 years of progressive HR experience, with 2+ years in a managerial role.
Sound knowledge of Sri Lankan labor law, payroll processes, and compliance obligations.
Experience handling confidential employee matters with professionalism and discretion.
Proficiency in MS Office, HRIS systems, and payroll software.

Preferred Attributes:

Strong written and verbal communication skills in English and Sinhala. Tamil is an added advantage.
Assertive and consistent in applying policies while maintaining fairness and discretion.
Highly organized with the ability to handle multiple tasks without compromising accuracy.
Calm and balanced when managing employee complaints or sensitive situations.
Capable of working independently and making decisions within defined guidelines.

Work Conditions:

The position is based in Colombo and requires on-site presence during regular office hours (8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday to Friday).
Occasional travel to other branches or locations may be required for HR audits or support.
Some extended hours may be necessary during payroll periods, disciplinary hearings, or recruitment drives.
The role requires dealing with sensitive employee matters and maintaining strict confidentiality at all times.

What We Expect From You:

You approach each task with consistency, fairness, and a strong sense of responsibility.
You are dependable, keep documentation in order, and stay ahead of deadlines.
You stay informed about labor law changes and adapt policies accordingly.
You are approachable but firm—providing support where it’s needed while upholding company standards.
You take ownership of the HR function and bring clarity to staff expectations and company processes.

What You Can Expect From Us:

A workplace where your contribution to the team is clearly defined and appreciated.
A management team that values structure, responsibility, and respectful communication.
Support in implementing HR practices that are practical, legally sound, and realistic for our workforce.
The autonomy to run your department within a clear framework, without micromanagement.
A stable working environment with room to improve systems and implement process improvements.

Who Should Apply:

This role is ideal for:

HR professionals who have led small to medium-sized HR teams or handled the full HR function independently.
Individuals who prefer clarity, structure, and quiet efficiency over vague strategies or inflated jargon.
Candidates who value fair treatment of staff and know how to maintain balance between business needs and employee rights.
Professionals already based in Colombo or nearby, looking for a stable, long-term HR leadership role.

You may want to reconsider applying if:

You are looking for a corporate HR job with a large support team under you.
You are uncomfortable making or enforcing firm decisions related to staff discipline or policy.
You are looking for remote or hybrid work without regular on-site responsibilities.

Application Process:

To apply, please send the following documents:

A current CV including details of your HR experience, qualifications, and relevant certifications.
A brief cover letter explaining your interest in this role and how your experience aligns with the position.
Contact details for at least two professional references (preferably one previous supervisor).
Any additional documentation such as certificates, HR training records, or sample policy work (optional).

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a two-stage interview process. This may include a case-based discussion and a brief policy analysis to understand your decision-making approach in HR matters.

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Final Word:

We understand that human resources is not just about paperwork or policy—it’s about maintaining a fair and functioning workplace. If you are someone who brings a quiet strength to HR work, prefers clarity over jargon, and is looking for a place where your attention to detail and practical approach will be respected, we’d like to hear from you.

This role is not for someone chasing titles or trends. It’s for someone who understands the responsibility that comes with managing people systems and is ready to take that on with professionalism.

We look forward to your application.