HR Business Partner

HR Business Partner – Operations | BAT Kenya

Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Industry: Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG)
Function: Human Resources / People Operations
Employment Type: Full-Time
Experience Level: Senior Management
Keyword Focus: HR business partner jobs in Kenya, human resources roles in Nairobi, FMCG HR careers, employee relations jobs Kenya, HR leadership opportunities

About BAT

British American Tobacco (BAT) is a global, multi-category company leading innovation in tobacco and nicotine alternatives, including products like VELO, VUSE, and GLO. With a mission to create A Better Tomorrow™, BAT is consistently recognized as a Global Top Employer—offering exceptional working conditions, inclusive leadership, and world-class development opportunities.

Why Join the HR Team?

At BAT, our people are our most valuable asset. The HR function plays a strategic role in attracting talent, driving leadership development, and supporting organizational agility. If you’re passionate about HR transformation, talent strategy, and employee relations in Kenya, this opportunity is designed for you.

Role Overview

The HR Business Partner – Operations will be responsible for aligning human resources strategy with business objectives across BAT Kenya’s operations. This role supports business transformation through organizational development, change management, leadership coaching, and policy compliance. You will also collaborate with HR Centers of Excellence and Shared Services across East and Southern Africa.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic HR Partnership

• Implement HR initiatives focused on attracting top talent, building leadership capacity, and supporting business change.
• Drive strategic HR planning within the operations unit to meet organizational objectives.
• Lead HR commercial strategy execution and embed integrated work systems (Organization, Leadership, Education).

2. Change and Culture Leadership

• Facilitate change management programs to support BAT’s transformation strategy.
• Embed an energized, agile, and collaborative work culture across departments.
• Deliver leadership training programs and support individual development planning.

3. Employee Relations & Policy Compliance

• Manage employee relations in compliance with Kenyan labor laws and internal frameworks.
• Train line managers on grievance handling, performance management, and policy updates.
• Ensure fair, transparent people practices aligned to BAT’s values.

4. Stakeholder Engagement

• Partner with internal HR teams (Talent, Reward, OE) and external stakeholders to strengthen people services.
• Establish strong HR partnerships across BAT’s African network to share best practices.
• Conduct regular benchmarking and apply HR insights to enhance team performance.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field (HR certifications are an added advantage).
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive HR experience, including at least 3 years in a managerial or HR leadership role.
• Proven expertise in industrial relations and sound knowledge of Kenyan employment legislation.
• FMCG or multinational company experience strongly preferred.

Key Competencies

• Exceptional stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Strong business acumen and problem-solving ability.
• Agility in managing HR projects under pressure and tight deadlines.
• Track record of leading change and cultural transformation.
• Ability to influence senior leaders and coach high-potential talent.

What BAT Offers

• Market-leading annual performance bonus (based on eligibility)
• Comprehensive health plans and wellness initiatives
• Work-life balance programs and flexible leave policies
• Global learning platforms and personalized development programs
• Opportunities for internal advancement and international mobility
• Inclusive workplace culture and return-to-work support programs

Why HR Careers at BAT?

Join a world-class HR team that believes leadership is a mindset, not just a title. BAT is where human resources professionals in Kenya thrive through continuous learning, exposure to global HR strategies, and opportunities to make tangible business impact. Whether you’re seeking growth in employee relations, organizational effectiveness, or talent development, this is where your HR career will flourish.

How to Apply

Ready to lead change and shape the future of people operations at BAT Kenya? Click “Apply Now” and submit your CV with a tailored cover letter. If you require special accommodations during the application process, please notify us. BAT is committed to diversity and inclusion at every stage of the hiring process.