HR Specialist (P-3)

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established nearly 70 years ago, is a leading humanitarian and development agency dedicated to advocating for the rights of every child. Operating in 190 countries and territories, UNICEF focuses on reaching the most disadvantaged children to save their lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. In Nigeria, UNICEF operates in a complex humanitarian and development setting, partnering with the government, civil society, children, and families to protect children's rights. UNICEF Nigeria is one of the largest country offices globally, emphasizing its commitment to improving the lives of children and their families through various initiatives and programs.

Job Overview:
The HR Specialist at the P-3 level is a seasoned HR professional responsible for delivering HR services and providing advisory support across various HR functional areas. This role requires sound professional judgment in interpreting and implementing HR policies and procedures in complex environments. The HR Specialist is accountable for implementing HR services that enhance the capacity of clients to achieve their business goals. This includes anticipating HR-related needs and developing plans and solutions that align HR management with business objectives. The position demands an in-depth understanding of HR principles and practices, particularly in emergency and field-based contexts, to support organizational effectiveness and workforce agility.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Business Partnering: Serve as the primary contact for clients regarding all aspects of the employment life cycle, providing accurate and timely advice on HR processes and policies. Proactively resolve HR issues, ensuring equitable solutions that protect both staff and organizational interests. Promote gender equity and cultural diversity within the organization.
• Strategic Human Resources: Collaborate with HQ Divisions and regional offices to support corporate HR strategy formulation and implementation. Provide feedback on HR systems and policies, and implement best practices in HR management.
• Implementation of HR Services: Support various HR functions such as recruitment, job classification, and performance management, assisting supervisors in attracting and retaining high-caliber staff. Analyze casework and recommend solutions based on established guidelines.
• Learning and Capacity Development: Design and deliver learning plans for staff, contributing to competency mapping and talent pipeline development. Recommend cost-effective learning products and participate in capacity-building initiatives.
• HR Data Analytics: Interpret and analyze HR data to inform strategic decision-making, developing systems to optimize data quality and coordinating with country offices for HR information management.

Required Qualifications:

• Education: An Advanced University Degree in human resource management, business management, international relations, psychology, or a related field is required.
• Experience: A minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience in human resource management within an international organization or large corporation is required.
• Technical Skills: Strong skills in results-based HR planning, monitoring, and reporting, with the ability to use HR data and analytics effectively. Knowledge of UNICEF HR policies and procedures, with experience in workforce planning, recruitment, and staffing. Proven capacity to provide HR advisory services, support staff wellbeing, and manage performance in high-pressure environments. Excellent coordination and communication skills, with proficiency in HR information systems and standard office software.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an Advanced University Degree in human resource management, business management, international relations, psychology, or a related field. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of HR management and the application of relevant policies and procedures in various contexts.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of increasingly responsible professional experience in human resource management. This experience should ideally be within an international organization or a large corporation, demonstrating a solid understanding of HR principles and practices, particularly in emergency and hardship duty station contexts.

Languages:
Fluency in English (both verbal and written) is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language, such as French, or a local language is considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration within diverse teams and communities.

Additional Notes:
The HR Specialist position is a full-time role based in Maiduguri, Nigeria. UNICEF promotes flexible working arrangements and has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with the aims of the United Nations, including discrimination and harassment. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, including verification of academic credentials and employment history. Candidates may also be required to meet medical clearance and vaccination requirements. UNICEF does not charge any processing fees during the recruitment process, and all positions are advertised publicly.