Chief, Human Resources Policies Division

UN Secretariat; New York (NY); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

UN Secretariat's HR Policies Division leads policy development for the UN common system, covering planning, recruitment, mobility, performance, and job evaluation. The role directs policy studies, advises the Commission and General Assembly, and oversees field entitlements and staff evaluation programs.

The incumbent brings 15+ years in HR policy, strong leadership, analytical abilities, and excellence in communication within multicultural settings.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in HR, public administration, or related field.
• Progressive HR policy development experience within a large organization.
• Strong leadership and project management skills.
• Experience advising senior bodies and working in multicultural settings.

Responsibilities

• Directs studies on HR management to develop system-wide policies.
• Oversees mobility/hardship schemes, duty station classifications, and rest frameworks.
• Forms policy recommendations and advises the Commission and General Assembly.
• Monitors policy implementation across common system organizations.
• Directs job evaluation system development and staff training.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Verbal/written communication

Policy development

Team leadership

Gender equity awareness

HR software

Education

Master's degree in Human Resources or related field

First-level degree with 2+ years of relevant experience

Tools

HR software

Job description

Organizational context: The Human Resources Policies Division (HRPD) within the UN Secretariat's International Civil Service Commission (ICSC) develops and revises HR policies for the UN common system. It covers areas like planning, recruitment, mobility, performance, and job evaluation. The Division also manages field entitlements and reports to the Executive Secretary, ensuring policies meet organizational and Member State needs.

Job purpose: This role leads the Human Resources Policies Division (HRPD) in supporting the International Civil Service Commission's (ICSC) mandate. The purpose is to develop, revise, and enhance HR management policies across the UN common system, focusing on strategic areas such as planning, recruitment, mobility, career development, performance management, and job evaluation. The incumbent will also oversee field entitlements, including hardship and mobility schemes, danger pay, and rest and recuperation frameworks. Key responsibilities include conducting studies, formulating policy recommendations, advising the Commission and General Assembly, monitoring policy implementation, and directing the Division's work program and staff performance to ensure relevance and efficiency.

Responsibilities: Develops and directs studies on human resources management to create system-wide HR policies, standards, and procedures, incorporating best practices. Manages the mobility/hardship scheme, including studies, duty station classifications, danger pay, and rest/recuperation frameworks. Formulates policy recommendations and provides expert advice to the Commission and General Assembly. Monitors and guides the implementation of approved policies by common system organizations. Directs the development, testing, and review of job evaluation systems and advises/trains staff on their application. Develops and manages the Division's work program and staff performance, fostering professional growth and a results-oriented environment.

Education: An advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in human resources, public administration, business administration, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level degree with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted.

Work experience: Requires at least 15 years of progressive experience in human resources management or HR policy development within the UN common system, including senior-level roles. Experience in staff management, team leadership, and working in a multicultural environment is also necessary.

Skills: Professionalism, analytical and research skills (qualitative/quantitative), adaptability to technological changes, effective communication (written/verbal), leadership, judgment, and decision-making. Experience with HR software and digital tools is beneficial. Knowledge of gender equity strategies and commitment to gender balance is also noted.

Required languages: English

Desired languages: French