Chief, People Operations Policy Unit

Job Posting Organization:
The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is an international financial institution and a specialized United Nations agency established to eradicate rural poverty and hunger. IFAD focuses on investing in rural people, financing programs and projects that enhance agricultural productivity and increase rural incomes. The organization advocates for policies that contribute to rural transformation at local, national, and international levels. IFAD operates globally, with a mission to empower rural communities and improve their livelihoods through sustainable agricultural practices and effective resource management. The organization is structured into various departments, including the Corporate Services Department (CSD), which provides essential human resources, administrative services, safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, information technology resources, and medical support services to fulfill IFAD's objectives.

Job Overview:
The Chief of the People Operations Policy Unit (POP) is a senior HR Manager responsible for providing technical leadership in various HR specialties and expert advisory services on policy development, implementation, and administration. This role requires a high degree of independence in delivering reliable HR program services. The Chief will oversee the management of HR policies, social security functions, and the development of HR technology architecture to support integrated HR and talent management processes. The position involves leading corporate initiatives, managing HR payroll, and ensuring the integrity of HR systems and staffing data. The Chief will also play a crucial role in designing and publishing corporate staffing and workforce data to support organizational strategy and decision-making. The incumbent will work closely with senior management to align HR operations with IFAD's strategic priorities and will advocate for HR policies that promote a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Serve as a human resources advocate, ensuring PCD's reputation as a reliable service provider and implementing new or revised HR policies and initiatives.
• Act as an agent of change, applying change management principles and promoting acceptance of new methods and technologies among staff.
• Manage HR resources by providing strategic inputs into budget preparation and overseeing accountability of resources.
• Ensure continuous knowledge management by updating HR content and identifying best practices.
• Lead strategic planning and design of corporate HR initiatives, aligning them with IFAD's organizational objectives.
• Analyze and define HR policies and procedures in line with global HR policy architecture.
• Manage HR projects, including the development of HR technology strategies and roadmaps.
• Provide expert advice to senior management on HR matters and negotiate solutions to complex HR issues.
• Establish and maintain relationships with external HR policy representatives and interagency bodies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in Human Resources Management, Public Administration, Business Management, or a related field. A minimum of ten years of progressively relevant experience in human resources management is required, preferably within the United Nations or an international financial institution. At least three years of experience in leading teams or supervising HR professionals is highly desirable. Certifications such as CIPD accreditation or equivalent are considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical skills, project coordination abilities, and expertise in HR policies and procedures.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in Human Resources Management, Public Administration, Business Management, or a related field is required. For internal candidates, this requirement will be assessed in accordance with IFAD's Human Resources Implementing Procedures.

Experience:
At least ten years of progressively relevant experience in human resources management is required. This experience should preferably be within the United Nations or an international financial institution, with at least three years in a leadership role supervising HR Analysts, Officers, and specialists. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing complex HR issues and leading teams effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with a proficiency level of 4 (Excellent). Knowledge of French, Spanish, and/or Arabic is considered an asset, with a proficiency level of 3 (Good).

Additional Notes:
This position is a short-term opportunity with a duration of 6-11 months, expected to start shortly after selection. The contract type for external candidates will be that of a Temporary Professional Officer (TPO). Internal candidates may be assigned as a Temporary Assignment. Applicants should verify and obtain their supervisors' support for release. The appointment carries no expectation of continuous employment or conversion to another type of appointment with IFAD. All staff members are international civil servants subject to the authority of the President of IFAD and are required to be geographically mobile. IFAD is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applications from persons with disabilities. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and official communication will come from emails ending in @ifad.org.