Africa Employment Forum

Managing workforces in Africa poses distinctive challenges for multinational employers. Whilst overarching labour law principles are shared, regulations, cultures and customs vary widely between countries. The convergence of artificial intelligence, a heightened emphasis on employee well-being, the imperative to embrace flexible arrangements, and evolving generational dynamics further amplifies these challenges.

Join industry leaders on Thursday 13 June, as we delve into strategies for navigating Africa’s diversity, while ensuring compliance and fostering positive labor relations through transparent and efficient practices. We are delighted to announce the new date for this event, which was rescheduled due to previous bad weather conditions.

Hear from keynote speaker, Dr Kate Barker on the future of work and its implications for employers on the continent. Recognised for her contributions to talent management, innovation, and advancements in people and technology, Dr Barker has been honored among the “Global Top 50 Women Leaders”, “Global Top 10 Voices on Future of Work”, and “Global Top 100 Executive Coaches.

Additionally, meet with our African employment lawyers from Kenya, Mauritius, Morocco, South Africa and Uganda at our individual country clinics, providing you the opportunity to ask questions on local employment law requirements and cultural contexts.

Open to legal or HR professionals whose remit includes responsibility for Africa, places are limited. Please register early to secure your seat.

13:15   Registration

14:00   Welcome and introduction

14:05   Keynote Address: The Future of Work: Unlocking potential in Africa

The future of work is emerging as a pivotal focus for organisations worldwide. Join Dr Kate Barker for insights into the transformative dynamics influencing the employment landscape – globally and across the continent.

From technological advancements to socio-economic shifts, Dr Barker will navigate the intricate landscape, shedding light to help employers unlock the region’s full potential.

Dr Kate Barker, Chief Futurist and Future of Work Expert

14:30   Workforce restructurings: Navigating African complexities in cross-border projects

Covering all four regions, our panel will explore effective strategies for overseeing multi-jurisdictional workforce restructurings, addressing scenarios where businesses aim to streamline their workforce continent-wide.

We will also analyse the challenges faced by organizations in adapting to the expectations of a workforce increasingly inclined towards flexible and remote working arrangements in the post-pandemic era.

Moderated by:

Monique Jefferson, Partner, DLA Piper, South Africa

Panelists:

Burty Francois, Partner, Jurisconsult Chambers (DLA Piper Africa, Mauritius)
Mehdi Kettani, Partner, DLA Piper, Morocco
William Maema, Senior Partner, IKM Advocates (DLA Piper Africa, Kenya)

15:15   Networking break

15:30   Efficiency unleashed: Strategies for transforming legal service delivery

Responsibility for managing employment law issues across multiple African markets raises a unique set of issues requiring a fresh perspective and approach. Hear from peers as to the strategies they’ve used to drive greater efficiencies in the management of employment risk within their organisation.

Moderated by:

Victoria Harris, Head of Legal Project Management, Business and Service Delivery, DLA Piper

Panelists:

Yasser Shabbir, Head of Employment Law, AME– Africa, Middle East & Pakistan, Standard Chartered Bank
Moses Segawa, Partner, S&L Advocates (DLA Piper Africa, Uganda
Sian Bowen, Regional Legal Director, Reckitt

16:15   Country Breakouts

Meet with DLA Piper and DLA Piper Africa lawyers from Kenya, Mauritius, Morocco, South Africa and Uganda. The clinics will provide you with an opportunity to ask questions whilst receiving an update on the employment legislative landscape.

Clinics will run for 40 minutes, giving attendees the opportunity to attend two to three country roundtables of their choosing.

17:30   Networking Reception

With over 20 years’ experience across all African jurisdictions and operations in 20 countries through DLA Piper Africa, we can help you succeed.
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