The Head of People Policy at UNOPS is a pivotal strategic leadership role responsible for the design, development, and implementation of human resources policies. Reporting to the Director of People and Culture, the incumbent plays a key role in shaping the organization’s people policies to align with UNOPS's mission, values, and strategic objectives. The role is responsible for developing, reviewing, and advising on HR policies across the employment lifecycle.
The incumbent of this position provides substantive expertise on the formulation, application and interpretation of the UN Staff Regulations and Staff Rules and UNOPS HR policies and procedures, with a focus on the provision of people-related transactional and advisory services, ranging from recruitment and selection to benefits and entitlements, contract management, personnel support, and exit management.
The incumbent conducts risk-based HR policy analysis and provides advice on waivers, exceptions, and discretionary decisions while liaising with other UNOPS units and external stakeholders to ensure alignment and consistency.
In performing their role, the Head of People Policy can communicate ideas and concepts clearly and convincingly while analyzing complex situations and coordinating actions beyond established procedures and models to resolve issues and deliver results.
Summary of functions:
Strategic HR Policy Development and Implementation
Strategic Advisory and Partnering
Representational and Management Support
People leadership
Impact of Results
The Head of People Policy’s contributions directly impact UNOPS' ability to support partners in achieving their goals. In addition, this position serves as a key strategic advisor to the leadership in helping spearhead UNOPS’ global HR transformation.
Education/Experience/Language requirements:
Education
Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) preferably in Human Resources Management, Public Administration, Labour Law, social sciences or related field.
Two (2) additional years of relevant experience in combination with a relevant first-level university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) as a substitute to the requirement of a Master’s degree.
Internationally recognized HR professional certification is a plus.
Experience
A minimum of 10 years of HR experience at the international level, with expertise in HR policy development and implementation required;
Experience in developing HR policies, processes, and best practices in the UN or similar international organization;
Minimum of 5 years of formal leadership or supervisory experience over a human resources unit/team/division;
Demonstrated expertise in designing and implementing HR policies and procedures, with a strong understanding of best practices, legal requirements, and industry standards;
Proven track record of strategic thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to translate complex issues into actionable policy recommendations;
Demonstrated experience in exercising sound judgment and decision-making;
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with ability to synthesize complex concepts;
Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively with stakeholders at all levels.
Desired:
Experience crafting HR policies, processes, and best practices in the UN or similar multilateral organization is a distinct asset;
Experience leading or participating in a strategic HR transformation desired;
Experience with an Integrated Service Management Solution (Umoja SAP, Peoplesoft, etc) relating to HR;
A strong network of HR professionals in the international HR community.
Language Requirements
Full working knowledge of English is essential.
Knowledge of another official UN language is an asset.
Think big. Meet challenges head-on. Help people build better lives.
UNOPS embraces diversity and is committed to equal employment opportunities. Our workforce is made up of people from varied nationalities, cultures and races. They speak a range of languages and have different gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities.
We encourage women and candidates from underrepresented groups in UNOPS to apply. These include candidates from racialized and/or indigenous groups, members of minority gender identities and sexual orientations, and people with disabilities. Click apply and join us!
Remarks: Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process.
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Human Resources
Industries
Non-profit Organizations
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