Chief of Human Resources

Leads UNU’s global human-resources portfolio for more than 700 personnel, directing operations, policy, compliance, recruitment, performance and staff development. The chief advises the Rector, coordinates the university-wide HR network and advances inclusive culture, organisational change and service quality.

• Lead global HR operations, services and the university-wide HR network for more than 700 personnel
• Direct the Centre HR team, recruitment, staff administration, welfare, compensation, benefits and payroll coordination
• Develop HR policies, structures and procedures aligned with UNU and UN system rules
• Oversee compliance reporting and close audit recommendations from UN oversight bodies
• Lead capacity building, performance management, mentorship, engagement surveys and staff development
• Advise the Rector, institutes, managers and personnel on HR strategy, restructuring and management practice
• Represent UNU in staff negotiations and inter-agency HR bodies and build external partnerships
• Lead gender, disability, inclusion, diversity and mental-health initiatives and reporting

• Master’s degree or equivalent in human resources management, business administration or a relevant discipline, or bachelor’s degree with two additional years of experience
• At least seven years of progressively responsible human-resources management experience in a large organisation
• At least five years of United Nations common-system experience with supervisory responsibilities
• Knowledge of United Nations staff rules and regulations
• Experience drafting reports, communications and presentations and managing teams
• Fluency in English

• Professional membership in an HR association such as CIPD or SHRM
• Experience with ERP systems
• Experience in an international environment

• Human Resources Strategy
• HR Operations
• Policy Development
• Recruitment Management
• Compensation and Benefits
• Performance Management
• Organisational Development
• Audit Coordination
• Change Management
• Diversity and Inclusion
• Executive Advisory
• Team Leadership

• ERP Systems

• Full-time fixed-term appointment for one year with possible renewal
• Expected start date is January 2027
• Applications require the UNU P11 form and a motivation statement
• Applications close on 6 September 2026 at 23:59 Malaysia Time
• Assessment may include an exercise, competency-based interview, background checks and references