Senior Human Resources Associate, (GS-7), LACRO, Panama, #90696 (Fixed-Term).

The Senior Human Resources Associate provides support to the supervisor and colleagues in the unit by executing Human Resources services through applying knowledge of theoretical Human Resources models, as well as understanding of organizational Human Resources policies and procedures.

UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential, from early childhood through adolescence.

At UNICEF, we are committed, passionate, and proud of what we do. Promoting the rights of every child is not just a job – it is a calling.

UNICEF is a place where careers are built: we offer our staff diverse opportunities for personal and professional development that will help them develop a fulfilling career while delivering on a rewarding mission. We pride ourselves on a culture that helps staff thrive, coupled with an attractive compensation and benefits package.

Visit our website to learn more about what we do at UNICEF.

For every child, OPPORTUNITIES!

The focus of this position is on the provision of support for specialized Human Resources Business Partner (HRBP) activities including but not limited to recruitment and placement, administration of entitlements, staff development and career development, job classification and performance management, data analytic and learning and career development. Specialized activities pertain to the application of Human Resources (HR) regulations, rules and procedures in the context of, on day-to-day basis, there typically being more complications that arise with a broader variety of solutions that are not always clearly covered in general guidelines, thus requiring a greater capacity to adapt and interpret. These position, require in depth knowledge of the subject matter and the capacity to carry out tasks with independence and HR acumen.

How can you make a difference? 

The Senior Human Resources Associate reports to the Human Resources Manager for close guidance, training and supervision. The incumbent provides support to the supervisor and colleagues in the unit by executing Human Resources services through applying knowledge of theoretical Human Resources models, as well as understanding of organizational Human Resources policies and procedures.

1. Support for Business Partnering

• Through research of policies and analysis of data, provide support to the Human Resources Business Partner in advising their clients on Human Resources-related needs and developing subsequent plans of action.

• Under the supervisor’s guidance, provide accurate and timely advice to clients on Human Resources processes and policies, ensuring the highest level of client-orientation.

• Support supervisor in proactively advising clients on the resolution of human resources issues by recommending equitable and transparent solutions that protects both the staff and organization’s interests in accordance with policies, regulations and procedures.

• Research and compile data that conveys organizational progress towards gender equity and cultural diversity.

2. Support to Implementation of assigned Human Resources Services

• Provide support to various or one specific Human Resources occupation (recruitment, job classification, career development, performance management, data analytics, learning & development etc.) to help their supervisors in implementing efficient client services that help either attract, retain and/or motivate staff of the highest caliber.

• When assigned casework in the relevant area on either a routine or non-routine basis, analyze and synthesize issues and problems, and interpret established, formal guidelines to address and recommend solutions or further actions required.

3. Learning and Capacity Development support

• Support the Human Resources Manager in the design and delivery of learning plans for staff.

• Contributes to the mapping of competencies for all staff included in the assigned client portfolio, assisting in the development of a comprehensive framework in support of the development of the talent pipeline.

• Support in capacity building initiatives to enhance the competencies of clients/stakeholders.

• Act as the focal point and under the supervisor’s guidance, facilitate the coordination with Division of Human Resources (DHR) in all aspect of the Learning and Career Development subject.

• Provide orientation briefing to new staff.

4. HR Data Analytics

• Collect, interpret and analyze Human Resources data to help supervisor to inform decision making on Human Resources processes and strategies.

• Support the development and implementation of data collection systems to optimize data quality.

• Support supervisor in the coordination with country offices and partners to provide assistance in their Human Resources information management.

5. Support in other HR projects

• Support the implementation of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives and strategies.

• Contribute to the implementation of Talent Sourcing strategies.

• Facilitates and support the coordination and preparation of materials for meetings, workshops, and other presentations by Human Resources team members.

• Supports any other Human Resources projects as needed.

If you would like to know more about this position, please review the complete Job Description here: Senior Human Resources Associate GS-7, LACRO.

To qualify as an advocate for every child you will have…

Minimum requirements:

• Education: Completion of secondary education.

• Work Experience: Minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in Human Resources, including Human Resources Administration of benefits and entitlements is required.

• Language Requirements: Fluency in English and Spanish is required.

Desirables:

• Experience in developing and using Human Resources data analysis, tools and systems is a strong asset.
• Experience in Learning and career development strategies and initiatives is a strong asset.
• Experience in an international organization is a strong asset
• Developing country work experience and/or familiarity with emergency.
• Knowledge of French or Portuguese language is an asset.

For every Child, you demonstrate…

UNICEF’s Core Values of Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust and Accountability and Sustainability (CRITAS) underpin everything we do and how we do it. Get acquainted with Our Values Charter: UNICEF Values

The UNICEF competencies required for this post are…

(1) Builds and maintains partnerships

(2) Demonstrates self-awareness and ethical awareness

(3) Drive to achieve results for impact

(4) Innovates and embraces change

(5) Manages ambiguity and complexity

(6) Thinks and acts strategically

(7) Works collaboratively with others 

[add the 8^th competency (Nurtures, leads and manages people) for a supervisory role]. 

Familiarize yourself with our competency framework and its different levels.

UNICEF is here to serve the world’s most disadvantaged children and our global workforce must reflect the diversity of those children. The UNICEF family is committed to include everyone, irrespective of their race/ethnicity, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, socio-economic background, or any other personal characteristic.

We offer a wide range of measures to include a more diverse workforce, such as paid parental leave, time off for breastfeeding purposes, and reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities. UNICEF strongly encourages the use of flexible working arrangements.

UNICEF does not hire candidates who are married to children (persons under 18). UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNICEF, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority, and discrimination. UNICEF is committed to promoting the protection and safeguarding of all children. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles. Background checks will include the verification of academic credential(s) and employment history. Selected candidates may be required to provide additional information to conduct a background check.

UNICEF appointments are subject to medical clearance.  Issuance of a visa by the host country of the duty station is required for IP positions and will be facilitated by UNICEF. Appointments may also be subject to inoculation (vaccination) requirements, including against SARS-CoV-2 (Covid). Should you be selected for a position with UNICEF, you either must be inoculated as required or receive a medical exemption from the relevant department of the UN. Otherwise, the selection will be canceled.

Remarks:

As per Article 101, paragraph 3, of the Charter of the United Nations, the paramount consideration in the employment of the staff is the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity.

UNICEF’s active commitment to diversity and inclusion is critical to deliver the best results for children. For this position, eligible and suitable candidates from underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.

Government employees who are considered for employment with UNICEF are normally required to resign from their government positions before taking up an assignment with UNICEF. UNICEF reserves the right to withdraw an offer of appointment, without compensation, if a visa or medical clearance is not obtained, or necessary inoculation requirements are not met, within a reasonable period for any reason. 

UNICEF does not charge a processing fee at any stage of its recruitment, selection, and hiring processes (i.e., application stage, interview stage, validation stage, or appointment and training). UNICEF will not ask for applicants’ bank account information.

Visa residence and working permit requirements: i.e.: UNICEF shall not facilitate the issuance of a visa and working authorization for candidates under consideration for positions at the national officer and general service category.]

All UNICEF positions are advertised, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process. An internal candidate performing at the level of the post in the relevant functional area, or an internal/external candidate in the corresponding Talent Group, may be selected, if suitable for the post, without assessment of other candidates.

Additional information about working for UNICEF can be found here.