Join Solevo: Empowering Progress Across Africa
At Solevo, we connect communities and industries with the solutions they need to grow, thrive, and transform. From supporting agricultural self-sufficiency to driving industrial innovation, we are shaping the future of Africa’s life sciences and industrial sectors.
Who are we?
SOLEVO is a leading distributor of chemicals and inputs for specific industrial and agricultural segments in Africa. SOLEVO assists African farmers and Industries succeed by providing them with a full range of fertilizers, seeds, crop protection products and industrial chemicals they need with a guaranteed quality and good value. With over 75 years at the frontier of economic growth and transformation across Africa, we deliver critical raw materials and expertise to the continent’s high GDP-contributing life sciences and industrials sectors.
What are we looking for?
We are seeking an experienced and visionary Group HR Director to lead our HR strategy across our 11-country operation. This strategic role will play a critical part in driving transformation initiatives during our post-merger and acquisition phase, while supporting our international operational framework. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in agro-chemical or chemical distribution companies and demonstrate innovative HR leadership. Advanced proficiency in English and French is required; Portuguese is a valuable asset.
What do we expect from the candidate?
As a key member of our executive team, the candidate will be responsible for designing and executing strategic HR initiatives that enable business growth, integration, and operational excellence. We expect a proactive leader who can manage cross-border HR operations, support organizational change, and advise senior leadership on talent development, cultural alignment, and compliance across all countries of operation.
Key responsibilities:
* Define and implement the group HR vision and mission aligned with the business strategy.
* Contribute to the definition of the overall business strategy by translating it into a targeted HR strategy with specific action plans.
* Drive transformation initiatives in a post-merger and acquisition environment.
* Provide strategic HR guidance to leadership teams across our 11 countries of operation.
* Champion HR analytics and data-driven decision making.
* Lead process improvement initiatives to enhance organizational efficiency.
* Oversee the implementation of critical certifications across our international operations.
* Integrate ESG principles into HR policies and decision-making frameworks.
* Set up an adequate compensation strategy and related policies to strengthen merit-based performance management.
* Retain key talent by implementing comprehensive talent management processes, including identification, development, promotion, training, and internal mobility.
* Establish the employer brand and value proposition to attract top talent and build a robust succession pipeline.
* Lead the communication function to ensure consistent and clear messaging across all levels of the organization.
* Act as a “glue leader” by supporting the Group Director Human Capital & Legal and senior leadership, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and efficiency.
* Manage change initiatives related to post-merger integration and the transition to a stand-alone business, ensuring effective communication and training, as well as the proper implementation of administrative and compliance processes.
* Build and develop a high-performing team, promoting cross-regional collaboration and knowledge sharing.
* Foster a performance-driven culture that supports diversity, excellence, and organizational values.
If you possess…
Must-Have:
* Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in senior HR leadership roles, preferably in distribution, agro-chemical, or chemical industries.
* Proven expertise in HR innovation and analytics with hands-on experience in modern talent management systems.
* Strong background in private equity environments and significant involvement in merger and acquisition processes.
* Demonstrated ability to manage HR functions across multiple countries and cultures.
* Advanced proficiency in English and French.
* In-depth knowledge of European labor law.
* Proven ability to operate as a member of a global leadership team across diverse functions.
Nice-to-Have:
* Proficiency in Portuguese
* Experience implementing ESG principles within HR frameworks
* Certifications in change management or organizational development
* Previous experience in companies with African operations
* Advanced analytical skills for HR data analysis and reporting
If you are/have…
* A strategic mindset, you translate business needs into effective HR initiatives while driving innovation and optimizing processes and systems.
* Naturally build robust relationships with diverse stakeholder groups by leveraging excellent communication skills and adapting seamlessly to multicultural environments.
* Demonstrate a proven ability to manage complex projects in dynamic settings, delivering measurable results through a data-driven approach to organizational change.
* Passionate about talent development and creating inclusive workplace cultures, you approach challenges proactively and with a strong commitment to continuous improvement.
Why join SOLEVO?
* Strategic Impact: Lead HR initiatives that directly support business growth across 11 countries
* Transformation Opportunity: Play a key role in our post-merger integration and organizational development
* Private Equity Environment: Gain valuable experience working in a PE-backed company undergoing strategic transformation
* Professional Development: Expand your expertise in a complex, multicultural environment that values initiative
* Purpose-Driven Work: Contribute to sustainable business practices through ESG-focused HR strategies
How to join us?
If you're excited about this opportunity and meet our requirements, please submit your resume detailing your relevant experience. Our HR team will contact qualified candidates for an initial discussion.