Senior Human Resources Officer (Talent Acquisition)

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. The organization operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members worldwide, focusing on improving agricultural productivity, enhancing nutrition, and promoting sustainable management of natural resources.

Job Overview:
The Senior Human Resources Officer (Talent Acquisition) plays a pivotal role in shaping the talent acquisition strategy for FAO, ensuring alignment with the organization's strategic framework and human resources strategy for 2025-202

• This position is responsible for leading the development and implementation of a global talent acquisition strategy that attracts and selects highly qualified and diverse talent from around the world. The officer will work closely with various stakeholders within the organization to ensure that talent acquisition processes are agile, effective, and strategically aligned with FAO's objectives. The role requires a strong focus on building partnerships across different functions and levels within the organization to enhance workforce management and support the overall mission of FAO.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Human Resources Officer will lead multidisciplinary HR teams and participate in cross-divisional teams and committees. Key responsibilities include analyzing HR strategic objectives and reform priorities to provide input into HR plans, supervising staff, and overseeing the delivery of HR programs and policies. The officer will provide HR advice and technical expertise to managers, promote new HR concepts, and manage related projects. Additionally, the role involves planning and developing communication and training programs to enhance understanding of HR policies and support organizational change initiatives. The officer will represent FAO in formal meetings and negotiations, monitor HR services, and recommend corrective actions as necessary. Specific functions include managing the talent acquisition function, establishing relationships with key stakeholders, designing inclusive recruitment policies, expanding talent pools, enhancing the employer image, and monitoring talent acquisition activities and outcomes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in human resources, organizational development, industrial psychology, law, business administration with a focus on human resources, or a related field. A minimum of ten years of relevant experience in human resources management within an international organization or large international setting is required, with a focus on workforce planning, talent acquisition, and talent management. Proficiency in English and intermediate knowledge of another official FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is mandatory. Candidates should demonstrate competencies in results focus, leadership, communication, partnering, knowledge sharing, and strategic thinking.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as human resources, organizational development, industrial psychology, law, or business administration with a focus on human resources. This advanced degree is essential to ensure that candidates have the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to effectively manage human resources in a complex international environment.

Experience:
Candidates are expected to have a minimum of ten years of relevant experience in human resources management, specifically in areas such as workforce planning, talent acquisition, and talent management. Experience in an international organization or large international setting is crucial, as is the ability to supervise a team of HR professionals. Additionally, experience in field positions and knowledge of HR management within the United Nations common system are considered strong assets.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a requirement for intermediate knowledge of another official FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish). This linguistic capability is essential for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders, ensuring that the officer can engage with a diverse range of candidates and partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Rome, Italy, at FAO Headquarters. While the job ad does not specify a deadline for applications, candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. The role is full-time and involves significant interaction with various stakeholders within the organization, requiring a high level of professionalism and strategic thinking. The position may also involve international recruitment efforts, reflecting FAO's commitment to attracting a diverse and skilled workforce.