Human Resources Specialist

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 over 194 member countries and works in more than 130 countries worldwide. The organization aims 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. FAO's Human Resources Division (CSH) is responsible for providing HR strategies, policies, tools, guidance, and oversight to ensure that the organization attracts, develops, and retains a diverse and skilled workforce.

Job Overview:
The Human Resources Specialist position is situated within the Strategy and Policy Team Branch (CSHP) of FAO's Human Resources Division. This role is crucial for providing comprehensive HR advice to managers and staff, particularly in the areas of workplace relations, performance management, and policy development. The Specialist will work closely with various stakeholders, including the Human Resources Officer (Administrative Law and Workplace Relations) and other HR officers, to address complex HR issues and ensure compliance with FAO's policies and regulations. The position requires a deep understanding of HR policies relevant to international organizations and the ability to navigate employment law and international administrative law effectively. The Specialist will also be involved in drafting strategy-related documents and policies, coordinating consultations with internal stakeholders, and providing guidance on disciplinary cases and performance matters.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Human Resources Specialist include reviewing requests for HR advice from managers and personnel regarding workplace relations issues, such as performance management and contract termination. The Specialist will liaise with various offices, including the Office of the Inspector-General and the Legal Office, on disciplinary cases and complex conduct issues. Additionally, the Specialist will prepare memoranda and communications related to unsatisfactory conduct, conduct research on FAO rules and regulations, and assist in the development of HR strategies and policies, particularly concerning harassment and abuse of authority. The role also involves preparing policy and position papers and briefing notes on complex administrative HR matters, ensuring that all actions align with FAO's mission and values.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Law, Administration, or Human Resources from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU/UNESCO). Alternatively, a Bachelor's degree combined with a post-graduate professional qualification in Law is acceptable. Candidates with only a Bachelor's degree must have two additional years of relevant professional experience. Furthermore, candidates should have at least five years of work experience in the field of Law, with a minimum of two years in reviewing and advising on administrative and/or employment law matters, and at least one year of experience with an international organization. A working knowledge of English at Level C proficiency is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in Law, Administration, or Human Resources from a recognized institution. Candidates with a Bachelor's degree must also have a post-graduate professional qualification in Law. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of HR policies and employment law at an international level.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of work experience in the field of Law, with at least two years focused on administrative and/or employment law matters. Additionally, candidates should have at least one year of experience working with an international organization, which is crucial for understanding the unique challenges and regulations that govern HR practices in a global context.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at Level C proficiency is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another FAO language would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively within the organization and with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The job posting does not specify the deadline for applications. It is important to note that the position is likely to be full-time, given the responsibilities outlined. The role may involve international recruitment, reflecting FAO's global presence and commitment to diversity in its workforce. Compensation and benefits details are not provided in the job description, but candidates can expect a competitive package in line with UN standards.