View Vacancy – HR Manager (BEL24.218)

Who are we? 

Corporate Services Benelux (CSB), a joint service leading on operational support to the UK diplomatic missions in Brussels, Luxembourg and The Hague, is now looking for a HR Manager.  

Our daily work relies on the input of dedicated individuals who engage in many different topics and activities. We seek to employ a diverse range of candidates who bring their own talents and perspectives to the role. We have a strong corporate agenda that ensures we create a positive and inclusive working environment where everyone is valued for their contribution. 

Main purpose of job:

Provide best-in-class HR support to the UK Missions in Brussels, through high-quality operational and strategic support to staff and line managers, while improving HR processes and policies, and support the Missions’ management.  Advise staff and line managers on the range of HR policies and practices. Lead and develop HR Strategies for the implementation of changes to the labour law aligned with the overall business strategy and values of the FCDO and the UK Missions in Brussels. As part of the wider Corporate Services Benelux team, the Human Resources Manager will lead a small and highly motivated team to deliver professional HR services to over 350 staff across the UK Missions. 

Roles and responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the Corporate Services Benelux (CSB) Human Resources team working in close liaison with key stakeholders in Brussels and HR colleagues in Lisbon and London.
• Oversee terms and conditions of service for locally recruited staff and ensure compliance with local labour law and FCDO policies.  Build and maintain a professional relationship with Country Based Staff Representation group(s).
• Assess current and future policy requirements to support strategic aims and partner with respective Mission management to lead and deliver on high level cross-cutting and change management projects as required.
• Lead the implementation of new HR processes or projects: digitalisation of HR processes, monitor changes to the recruitment process of Country Based Staff and interns, etc.
• Deliver clear and timely advice to Missions’ Management on individual and wider HR issues, in order to ensure transparent and open recruitment and competitive Terms & Conditions.
• Provide expertise on HR matters including recruitment, induction, compensation, and performance pay processes as needed; review and authorise local employment offers.  Advise senior management on and handle employment termination.
• Provide guidance on sensitive staff matters for locally recruited staff, including management issues and dispute resolution.
• Provide HR support for pay and performance related pay reviews led from the FCDO. Lead on the calculation of annual leave entitlements, Time off In Lieu analysis and Country Based Staff public holidays, in close collaboration with Mission’s Management and the Finance Team. Ensure expenditure linked to HR activities provides value for money and remains within budget allocation.
• Raise awareness on the conditions of employment and related good practices. Increase visibility of the HR team: send regular communications (e.g., monthly HR newsletter, provide info sessions for staff and line managers. Host regular “drop-in” sessions to ensure accessibility to all.

Our Ideal Candidate shows: 

• Full professional proficiency in English (written and spoken, minimum of C1 level for CEFR framework*);
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in general HR management and operating in an international environment, preferably in a diplomatic mission;
• Knowledge of Belgian labour law;
• Competence to build and effectively manage interpersonal relationships at all levels including at senior levels;
• Self-motivated and results driven;
• Excellent active listening, negotiation and presentation skills;
• Solid experience in using databases. Proficient with MS Office, particularly Excel and Teams;
• Capable working autonomously from an early stage.