HR Specialist- Respectful Workplace and Employee Relations

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Position Title: HR Specialist- Respectful Workplace and Employee Relations
Location: New York
Country: United States
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that focuses on sustainable development and the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Established in 1965, UNDP operates in 170 countries and territories, employing a diverse workforce dedicated to helping nations develop strong policies, skills, partnerships, and institutions. UNDP's mission is to assist countries and communities in pursuing peaceful and prosperous lives while ensuring harmony with the planet. The organization emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering an environment where all personnel can contribute to its mission. UNDP is committed to rigorous standards of conduct, including zero tolerance for sexual exploitation, harassment, and discrimination, ensuring a safe and respectful workplace for all employees.

Job Overview:
The HR Specialist- Respectful Workplace and Employee Relations will play a pivotal role in enhancing UNDP's organizational culture by promoting civility, respect, and psychological safety in the workplace. This position is integral to the implementation of the People for 2030 strategy, which aims to transform UNDP's culture and workforce capacity. The incumbent will work under the guidance of the Chief of the People Performance Unit and will be responsible for designing and implementing policies and initiatives that advance equal opportunities and foster a supportive work environment. The role requires a strong commitment to promoting open dialogue, accountability, and trust across all levels of the organization, ensuring that all personnel feel valued and empowered to contribute their best work.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and implementation of policies and programs to advance equal opportunities in the workplace, ensuring alignment with UNDP’s Policy on Harassment, Sexual Harassment, Discrimination, and Abuse of Authority.
• Strengthen UNDP’s workplace culture by promoting respect, fairness, and psychological safety through targeted initiatives and behavior change programs.
• Establish and implement high-quality support services for employees facing workplace concerns, ensuring fair treatment and access to guidance on professional conduct.
• Collaborate with various offices to design and implement knowledge and capacity-building initiatives that promote workplace respect and prevent misconduct.
• Analyze workforce data to identify gaps and deploy actionable interventions that improve workplace civility and respect.
• Facilitate dialogues and listening sessions to capture employee experiences and identify barriers to a respectful workplace culture.
• Develop and implement monitoring systems to assess the effectiveness of respectful workplace initiatives and report on progress.
• Lead the design and implementation of corporate recognition programs that highlight individuals and teams exemplifying respectful behaviors.
• Supervise temporary personnel, including contractors and consultants, ensuring effective project management and delivery of HR programs.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced University degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Human Resource Management, Social Sciences, Organizational Development, Psychology, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) with an additional two years of qualifying experience will be considered.
• Minimum 7 years of relevant experience in human resources, employee relations, or organizational development (9 years with a bachelor’s degree).
• At least 5 years of project/program management experience with measurable outcomes.
• Demonstrable experience providing subject matter expertise in employee relations, equal opportunities, and workplace respect policies.
• Experience leading behavioral change strategies and facilitating multi-stakeholder discussions.
• Proven ability to use data-driven insights to improve employee experience and develop training programs addressing psychological safety and leadership integrity.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree) in relevant fields such as Human Resource Management, Social Sciences, Organizational Development, or Psychology. A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) combined with additional qualifying experience may also be considered.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in human resources, employee relations, or organizational development, with at least 5 years in project/program management. Candidates should have a proven track record of leading complex projects and providing expertise in employee relations and workplace respect policies. Experience in the UN system or similar international organizations is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required. Working knowledge of another UN language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's profile for this role.

Additional Notes:
The position is contingent upon the successful completion of a probationary period, with an initial appointment duration of 12 months. The role involves supervising temporary personnel and requires adherence to UNDP's core values and standards of conduct. UNDP is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from marginalized or excluded populations.