HR Business Partner (2 posts)

Job Posting Organization:
The European Space Agency (ESA) is an intergovernmental organization dedicated to the exploration of space. Established in 1975, ESA has grown to include 22 member states and employs over 7,700 professionals across various locations in Europe. The agency's mission is to shape the development of Europe's space capability and ensure that investment in space continues to deliver benefits to the citizens of Europe and the world. ESA operates in multiple countries, including Germany, the Netherlands, France, and Italy, among others, and is committed to fostering international cooperation in space exploration and research.

Job Overview:
The HR Business Partners will play a crucial role within the HR Business Partnering Division of the Human Resources Department at ESA. This division consists of over 100 professionals who provide high-quality HR services to a diverse workforce of more than 7,700 employees across various ESA establishments. The primary function of the HR Business Partners is to support ESA Directorates in strategic workforce planning and the transformation of organizational structures, ensuring that the agency remains adaptable and efficient. They act as the main interface between Human Resources and the business, aligning Directorate priorities with the agency's people strategy. The HR Business Partners will provide strategic advice and operational support to leadership teams on various aspects, including organizational design, capability development, and change management. They will also work closely with HR Competence Centres and the Employee Services Division to address complex organizational challenges and foster a high-performing work environment. Additionally, they will be responsible for translating ESA's people strategy into impactful initiatives that meet Directorate-level needs while contributing to the overall HR agenda.

Duties and Responsibilities:
As an HR Business Partner, the individual will supervise a team of HR Advisors and will be responsible for a variety of key functions. These include providing strategic advice and guidance to senior leaders, contributing to the development and implementation of people strategies that align with business objectives. The HR Business Partner will lead and support key organizational initiatives such as workforce planning, organizational design, talent development, and employee engagement. They will build strong relationships with senior stakeholders, drive organizational effectiveness, and support change management initiatives. The role also involves promoting a high-performance culture, collaborating with HR Competence Centres, and contributing to the continuous improvement of HR policies and processes. The HR Business Partner will leverage data and analytics to inform decision-making and provide reporting insights to leadership. They may also represent HR locally towards key stakeholders and will be expected to travel frequently within Europe.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Engineering, Psychology, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of 10 years of directly relevant professional experience is required, with at least 7 years in an HR advisory, business partnering, or similar role. Candidates should also have a minimum of 3 years of experience in coordinating a team of HR Business Partners or HR Advisors. Alternatively, candidates with a bachelor’s degree and an additional 4 years of relevant professional experience may be considered. The role requires strong leadership capabilities, excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and the ability to handle confidential information with discretion.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a master’s degree in a relevant field such as Human Resources, Business Administration, Engineering, or Psychology. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of HR functions and the strategic alignment of HR practices with business objectives. Candidates with a bachelor’s degree may also be considered if they have additional relevant experience, demonstrating the importance of practical knowledge alongside formal education.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically a minimum of 10 years in relevant professional roles. Out of this, at least 7 years must be in an HR advisory, business partnering, or similar function. Furthermore, candidates should have at least 3 years of experience in a leadership role, coordinating a team of HR professionals. This level of experience is crucial for effectively managing HR initiatives and providing strategic guidance to senior leadership.

Languages:
The working languages of the European Space Agency are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these languages is mandatory for the position. Additionally, knowledge of another Member State language would be considered an asset, reflecting the agency's commitment to diversity and inclusiveness in its workforce.

Additional Notes:
The position is a four-year appointment, which may be extended to an indefinite duration based on performance and organizational needs. The HR Business Partner role is classified under Grade Band A

• The agency is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusiveness, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability, or other characteristics. The recruitment process may include selection tests, and successful candidates will undergo basic screening before appointment. The agency values diversity and seeks to accommodate individuals with disabilities, providing necessary support during the recruitment process.