Senior HR Manager - MENA

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established to provide assistance in disaster and hardship, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries worldwide. The organization partners with communities to implement bold solutions that help individuals overcome adversity and build stronger communities from within. Their mission is to empower people to create lasting change in their lives and communities, ensuring that they can thrive now and in the future.

Job Overview:
The Senior HR Manager is a pivotal role within the regional HR management support team, specifically for Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon, and Yemen. This position is responsible for ensuring that human resources are effectively planned and utilized to support the organization's programs. The Senior HR Manager will play a crucial role in the leadership of the country programs in Iraq, Lebanon, and Yemen, working under the guidance of the Deputy Regional Director – Operations and the Regional HR Director. This role involves strategic HR management, stakeholder engagement, compliance with labor laws, and the development of HR policies that align with both organizational goals and local needs. The Senior HR Manager will also oversee recruitment, talent acquisition, employee relations, and the overall HR operations across multiple countries, ensuring that the HR function supports the organization's mission and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement multi-country HR strategies that align with organizational goals and country-specific workforce needs.
• Serve as the primary HR liaison between country teams, regional leadership, HQ, and external stakeholders.
• Oversee the implementation of HR policies, ensuring compliance with local labor laws and donor regulations.
• Conduct risk assessments on employment contracts and labor law changes across multiple countries.
• Lead recruitment and onboarding processes, ensuring alignment with organizational and donor requirements.
• Ensure competitive salary structures and benefits packages.
• Lead talent development initiatives and implement HR training programs.
• Foster an inclusive workplace culture and enhance employee engagement and well-being.
• Supervise and mentor country HR teams, ensuring effective management of HR functions. 1
• Conduct regular performance reviews and build a culture of continuous learning within the HR function.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field. They should have excellent written and spoken English skills, with previous experience leading the HR department of large teams (100+ staff) preferred. Outstanding leadership and communication skills are essential, along with the ability to navigate difficult circumstances calmly and methodically. Candidates should demonstrate impartial, ethical, and empathetic behavior in the workplace, and be approachable, discreet, and confidential. Extensive knowledge of local community and culture is also required, along with sound judgment in HR matters.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or certifications in HR management are preferred but not mandatory. Continuous professional development in HR practices and regulations is encouraged.

Experience:
Candidates should have significant experience in human resources management, particularly in an international non-governmental organization (INGO) context. A history of managing HR functions across multiple countries and understanding of diverse labor laws and cultural practices is crucial. Experience in leading large teams and managing complex HR operations is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Proficiency in Arabic is highly desirable, given the regional focus of the position. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the MENA region would be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in one of the current MENA office locations and may require occasional travel to support country programs, including travel to insecure locations. The role is full-time and may involve working in challenging environments. Mercy Corps is committed to providing a respectful and inclusive workplace, and they actively seek diverse candidates to strengthen their team. The organization offers competitive compensation and benefits, including opportunities for ongoing learning and professional development.