Leadership Changes and Employment Law Reforms: A New Era for Organizations

Wake Smith Solicitors, based in Sheffield, has appointed Liam Kenealy as the new director and head of employment and HR services. Kenealy brings over 18 years of experience in advising employers and employees across various sectors, including hospitality and manufacturing. His role will involve expanding the employment team and enhancing service offerings alongside associate Harriet Gardner and newly qualified solicitor Charlotte Wallage. Kenealy emphasized the importance of adapting to recent employment law changes, particularly the forthcoming Employment Rights Bill, which is expected to introduce significant reforms over the next three years. Paul Gibbon, joint managing director at Wake Smith, praised Kenealy's expertise, noting that his leadership will be crucial for the firm's growth.

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Sewit Ahderom has been appointed as the President and CEO of the Mastercard Foundation, effective January 1, 2026. This marks a significant milestone as she becomes the first African woman to lead the organization. Ahderom's background includes a degree in electrical engineering and an MBA, with experience spanning investment banking and sustainable development. She has previously served on the Foundation's Board of Directors, which has equipped her with a deep understanding of its mission. Under her leadership, the Foundation aims to continue its flagship programs, such as Young Africa Works, which seeks to enable 30 million young Africans to access dignified work by 2030. Ahderom's vision emphasizes trust in local entrepreneurs and a commitment to empowering African youth.

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As the January 2026 deadline approaches, designated employers in South Africa must prepare for compliance with new sectoral employment equity targets. The Department of Employment and Labour (DoEL) will begin assessing employers against these targets, which were established on April 15, 2025. Employers are required to submit baseline reports that align with these sectoral targets, demonstrating credible progress towards the 2030 benchmarks. Failure to comply may result in significant financial penalties and disqualification from state contracts. Experts advise employers to conduct thorough analyses of their workforce composition and develop robust Employment Equity Plans (EEPs) to avoid non-compliance.

Employment equity overhaul: Key steps to meeting January 2026 targetsWake Smith appoints new head of employmentNew Head of School EECS - open nomination

The appointments of Kenealy and Ahderom, alongside the impending employment equity reforms, signal a transformative period for organizations navigating the evolving employment landscape. Kenealy's focus on adapting to legislative changes and Ahderom's commitment to empowering African youth reflect a broader trend towards inclusivity and responsiveness in leadership. As organizations prepare for compliance with new regulations, the emphasis on data-driven strategies and local partnerships will be crucial for fostering sustainable growth and addressing workforce challenges.

Sewit Ahderom, an African at the helm of the Mastercard Foundation

Liam Kenealy stated, “I hope to bring my practical, approachable, solutions-focused advice and build on what is a strong and growing team.” Sewit Ahderom expressed her commitment to the Foundation's mission, saying, “The Foundation’s commitment to helping young people access dignified and fulfilling work resonates deeply with me.”

Sewit Ahderom, an African at the helm of the Mastercard Foundation

• “This year we have seen several employment law changes, and the Employment Rights Bill represents the most sweeping package of employment law changes in decades.” — Liam Kenealy, Director, Wake Smith Solicitors

Wake Smith appoints new head of employment

• “We must trust African entrepreneurs, researchers, and innovators. They are the ones shaping the continent’s future,” — Sewit Ahderom, President and CEO, Mastercard Foundation

Sewit Ahderom, an African at the helm of the Mastercard Foundation

• “In addition, employers who cannot demonstrate compliance or provide a credible justification for non-alignment risk disqualification from state contracts, as an EE Compliance Certificate is required to tender for such work.” — Dhevarsha Ramjettan, Partner at Webber Wentzel

Employment equity overhaul: Key steps to meeting January 2026 targets

There are no conflicting reports noted in the sources regarding the appointments or the employment law changes. However, the implications of these changes on specific sectors and organizations remain to be fully assessed as the deadlines approach.

Employment equity overhaul: Key steps to meeting January 2026 targets