Human Resources Manager

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to provide relief and development services, CRS operates in more than 100 countries, focusing on saving, protecting, and transforming lives in need without regard to race, religion, or nationality. The organization engages in various programs including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. CRS is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, and it welcomes staff from diverse faiths and secular traditions who share its values and commitment to serving those in need. The organization emphasizes the importance of safeguarding and has policies in place to protect program participants, community members, staff, and volunteers from all forms of exploitation and abuse. CRS also prioritizes candidates who are citizens or permanent residents of the countries where it operates, reflecting its commitment to local engagement and empowerment.

Job Overview:
The Human Resources Manager will partner with the Country Program (CP) Senior Management Team to provide strategic HR direction that supports high-quality programs aimed at serving the poor and vulnerable populations. This role involves analyzing and anticipating HR needs and challenges in various areas such as recruitment, staff development, performance management, employee relations, compensation and benefits, onboarding, policies, staff care, and employee administration. The HR Manager will introduce improvement solutions to enhance HR programs and services, ensuring they align with the latest agency, donor, and local legal requirements. The position requires a proactive approach to managing HR processes and activities, providing professional HR advice and coaching to managers and staff, and effectively managing talent and team dynamics. The HR Manager will also lead training and professional development initiatives, ensuring that staff retention strategies are competitive and equitable, fostering an engaging work environment that promotes personal and professional growth.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The HR Manager will manage HR processes and activities to ensure compliance with agency, donor, and local legal standards. Key responsibilities include providing professional HR advice and coaching on recruitment, performance management, and employee relations; managing talent and supervising staff; conducting training needs assessments; ensuring the provision of focused development programs; monitoring staff retention strategies; and overseeing record-keeping in accordance with regulations. The HR Manager will serve as the CP focal point for Code of Conduct and Ethics, ensuring adherence to safeguarding policies. Additionally, the role involves representing the organization in HR management forums, overseeing compliance with labor laws, and acting as the liaison between CRS management, HR, and external legal counsel. The HR Manager will also provide analytical reports on HR-related data to support decision-making and workforce planning.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management or Business Administration, with additional education potentially substituting for some experience. A minimum of two to three years of work experience managing an HR function is required, along with strong knowledge of HR best practices and standards, preferably within an international or local NGO context. Candidates should have at least three years of staff management experience and demonstrate strong skills in presenting, facilitating, and coaching on HR topics. Preferred qualifications include a Master’s degree in HR Management, Business Administration, or Organizational Development, along with experience analyzing and interpreting employment laws and regulations. Candidates should have thorough knowledge of local labor laws and compliance requirements, proven experience in staff management, and strong relations management abilities.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management or Business Administration as a minimum educational qualification. A Master’s degree in HR Management, Business Administration, or Organizational Development is preferred and may enhance a candidate's profile, particularly for those seeking to demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills in the field of human resources.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of two to three years of experience managing an HR function, with a strong understanding of HR best practices and standards. At least three years of staff management experience is essential, along with demonstrated experience in presenting, facilitating, and coaching on HR topics. Experience within an international or local NGO is highly desirable, as it provides context for understanding the unique challenges and requirements of HR management in such environments.

Languages:
Fluency in both French and English is required for this position. These language skills are essential for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders, including government authorities and peer organizations. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Antananarivo, Madagascar, and may require travel of up to 20%. The HR Manager will supervise HR Officers and will have key working relationships with internal stakeholders such as Senior Leadership Team members, Risk & Compliance Officers, and Regional and HQ HR Teams. Externally, the HR Manager will engage with the Ministry of Labor, labor inspectors, external legal counsel, and HR professionals from peer organizations. The role is full-time, and candidates should be aware that CRS prioritizes local candidates for its positions, reflecting its commitment to the communities it serves. The successful candidate will be expected to adhere to CRS's Code of Conduct and safeguarding policies.