HR Business Partner - Nairobi, Kenya - International Rice Research Institute

Description

Our Mission IRRI is dedicated to abolishing poverty and hunger among people and populations that depend on rice-based agri-food systems.

Through our work and partnerships, we aim to improve the health and welfare of rice farmers and consumers; promote environmental sustainability in a world challenged by climate change; and support the empowerment of women and the youth in the rice industry.

Our research for development is characterized by its collaborative nature:

from alliances with advanced research institutes; through strong collaborations and capacity development with governments and national agricultural research and extension systems; to partnerships with the development sector and our ability to broker novel delivery channels through the private sector.

IRRI's work is supported by a diverse network of investors aligned to common goals.

Responsibilities

Lead the implementation, administration and analysis of the human resource policies, procedures and programs to ensure high quality services and promote positive workplace relations for nationally and globally recruited staff.

Should also identify the current and future needs, proactively design plans and interventions, proactively update, implement and suggest improvements on existing HRS policies and procedures and benchmark HR processes and performance metrics to best practices from other organizations in the region, in consultation with HQ HROD
Establish and provide overall guidance in the end to end recruitment process for both staff and short-term appointments, learning and development, and workplace relations to ensure IRRI Offices HR processes clearly reflects IRRI's commitment to gender and diversity and develop IRRI Africa Regional Office awareness and commitment to Gender Strategy (Provide the strategic interface between HRS and line managers to ensure a more effective front line delivery, pre-empt issues and identify and implement possible solutions, provide high level advice and guidance to line managers and on the implementation and interpretation of IRRI related policies and procedures, ensure an efficient and effective administration and documentation of IRRI Africa Regional Office plans and programs)
In coordination with IRRI HQ, Implement and sustain an equitable and competitive pay philosophy and benefits structure to attract and retain quality staff
Prepare MOUs for HR related works and develop agreements with service providers
Liaise with headquarters (HQ) HR to ensure all IRRI Africa Offices HR processes related to recruitment, work places relations, HQ driven learning events and audits are efficient and effective and in line with IRRI HR guidelines, the IRRI Africa Offices's NRS Supplements, and labor laws within IRRI Africa Regional Office scope
Coordinate with government bodies as required, such as Ministry of Labor& Employment etc. to ensure that HR policies and guidelines are in accordance to local labor laws and inform HQ HROD accordingly for any changes
Update staff members on current HR issues and provide access to HR related materials
Effectively communicate and facilitate HR programs and training on HR policy, the Code of Conduct, compensation and benefits, IRRI's Gender Strategy, career development, performance management, health and wellness seminars, etc, motivation, and efficiency
Identify work objectives, provide performance feedback to the immediate supervisors, and suggest development initiatives to optimize productivity and achievement of goals in consultation with HQ HR Manager
Update and maintain confidentiality of all employee files including efficient documentation of disciplinary proceedings and completion of salary increase processes and transactions
Prepare on-boarding program and arrange induction meetings to ensure ease for new employee arrival and proper access to benefits
Provide focused counselling to staff and coordinate grievance procedures and performance-related concerns to handle complaints arising from employees/supervisors and provide dispute resolution services as required
Conduct interviews with exiting employees, coordinate smooth exit process, and provide written feedback to HQ HR office regarding trends revealed in the exit interviews
Provide stakeholders with staffing reports including exit interviews and prepare HRS annual budget for discussion
Perform any other relevant duties as assigned by supervisor from time to time

Requirements
Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Human Resource Management, Personnel Management, Industrial Psychology, or another discipline which provides suitable basic knowledge; and minimum 8 years relevant practical work experience acquired in an international setting; OR
Master's degree in human resource management, Personnel Management, Industrial Psychology; and 5 years relevant work experience acquired in an international setting

Skills Required

Experience in supervising with strong interpersonal relations skills
Excellent organizational skills sills, sound analytical and problem-solving ability together with high drive
Has significant experience in policy interpretation and in labor law compliance
Consistently maintains confidentiality
Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment
Can effectively establish priorities and meet deadlines
Proficient in Microsoft Office, experienced in using a database system
Excellent report writing skills
Experience in process improvement and has the ability to operate optimally in a fast paced and demanding environment
Has sound analytical and problem-solving ability together with high drive and self motivation
Ability to work independently and provide strategic advice and support to clients
Experience working in an international work environment, non-government sector and/or agricultural sector
Experience in using ERP system
Excellent English writing and speaking abilities with strong oral and written communication skills; good verbal and written communication in French