For Kedibone Letsika, HR is more than policies and procedures; it's about people, strategy, and creating meaningful change in the workplace.
As the people and culture director at JTI South Africa, Kedibone has seamlessly blended her legal expertise with her passion for people management. “I had a successful career in law, and my enthusiasm for people management inspired me to transition into this field,” she says.
“I have always had a deep understanding of labour legislation, and I was drawn to the technical aspects of human resources that focus on people management within robust policies and procedures — while maintaining the empathetic side and striking the impossible task of aligning business objectives with employee satisfaction.”
Kedibone’s ability to merge legal expertise with people management has set her apart in the HR field.
“Many might not expect this combination from someone in HR, but I believe it gives me a unique edge. My legal background helps me navigate complex regulations and ensure compliance, while my passion for people allows me to foster a positive workplace culture.”
According to Kedibone, a career-defining moment for her came when she realised how her legal background could transform HR practices.
“This realisation solidified my belief that I was meant to lead in this domain. It was further reinforced post an organisational restructure. Despite the challenges that come with such transitions, I was still able to maintain trust with the people I serve. I had also gained the collaboration of other functions that now believed in the new path the organisation was taking.”
Throughout her journey, Kedibone says she has gained invaluable lessons about HR’s evolving role. “One of the biggest lessons I’ve learnt is the importance of balancing legal compliance with empathy. Transparent communication during organisational changes is also key to maintaining trust and engagement.”
“I navigate this balance by prioritising open communication and ensuring that our people and culture strategies align with business goals while also considering employee satisfaction,” she says.
Kedibone describes her leadership at JTI South Africa as one rooted in fostering an inclusive and engaging workplace.
“The culture at JTI South Africa is characterised by openness, engagement, and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). This makes our company unique in its approach to employee well-being and development.”
JTI’s efforts to attract and retain top talent have not gone unnoticed, as the company has been recognised as a global top employer. For this achievement, Kedibone credits initiatives such as:
- Flexible working conditions that allow employees to choose how, when, and where they work.
- Support for employees and their families, including a global family leave policy that offers equal parental leave opportunities.
- A strong focus on DEI, ensuring a culture where everyone can thrive.
- Tools and resources to help employees grow and develop professionally.
- Special emphasis on women in leadership and broad-based black economic empowerment (B-BBEE) objectives.
- A behavioural framework, "Our Way," that helps employees bring their best selves to work.
Beyond workplace initiatives, she also credits community investment and sustainability for playing a significant role in JTI’s employer brand.
“People increasingly want to work for companies that make a difference today for a better tomorrow. That aligns perfectly with our ‘Our Way’ behavioural framework and our pillar, Shape Tomorrow, Today.”
“However, key challenges in talent management include adapting to a competitive market and managing employee expectations,” Kedibone explains. “JTI addresses these by offering unique career opportunities and fostering a culture of continuous learning.”
For HR professionals looking to build strong workplace cultures, her advice is simple yet powerful: “Be authentic, maintain integrity, and cultivate genuine connections with employees,” she says.
When not shaping HR strategies, Kedibone says she finds joy in family, travel, and personal development.
“I enjoy engaging in community events and team-building activities. I also love spending quality time with my family, watching documentaries that spark my curiosity, and exploring new destinations around the world.” And on a lighter note? “I also love dessert; it adds a sweet touch to my life outside of work.”
Based in Johannesburg, she is a proud wife and a mother to four beautiful children. One of her passions is guiding her children in setting up vision boards — a practice she believes fosters clarity and ambition.
“Creating a vision board is a powerful tool for visualising goals and aspirations. By teaching my children to establish their vision boards now, while they are still young, I am instilling in them a sense of purpose and direction.”
