Demotion
A workplace change where an employee is moved to a lower position, lower grade, reduced responsibility level, or lower remuneration structure.
Definition
Demotion can arise as a disciplinary sanction, an alternative to dismissal, a restructuring measure, or an agreed change to employment terms. The practical review should check the contract, job description, consultation record, disciplinary record, notice of the change, pay impact, reasons given, consistency with other employees, and whether the dispute should be framed as unfair labour practice, unfair dismissal, discrimination, or breach of contract.
Key takeaways
A workplace change where an employee is moved to a lower position, lower grade, reduced responsibility level, or lower remuneration structure.
Labour Law
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Related legal problems
This glossary provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice.
Common situations
Demotion dispute
Unfair labour practice
Disciplinary sanction
Related resources
Resources and guides
CCMA Checklist
Preparation checklist for CCMA referral, conciliation, and arbitration steps.
Labour LawChecklistDisciplinary Hearing Checklist
Checklist for preparing notices, evidence, witnesses, timelines, and questions before a disciplinary hearing.
Labour LawPreparation PackEmployment Dispute Pack
Employment Dispute Pack for organising facts, dates, documents, and next steps before seeking labour law help.
Labour LawFAQs
Demotion FAQs
What does Demotion mean?
A workplace change where an employee is moved to a lower position, lower grade, reduced responsibility level, or lower remuneration structure.
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