Human Resources Specialist (Policy), HR

Organizational Context

The Human Resources Specialist (Policy) role is within the Human Resources Branch of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), reporting to the Deputy Director, Human Resources. This position serves as the lead expert on HR policy, responsible for reviewing, developing, and ensuring compliance with HR policies and procedures. The role requires independent work aligned with organizational strategies and directives.

Job Purpose

The HR Specialist (Policy) is the lead expert responsible for the comprehensive review, development, and implementation of human resources policies and procedures within ICAO. This role involves assessing existing policies for gaps and best practices, developing new policies aligned with organizational goals and UN system standards, and ensuring consistent application and compliance. The specialist provides authoritative advice and interpretation on HR regulations, identifies risks associated with policies and contractual modalities, and contributes to strategic HR planning. The purpose is to enhance HR effectiveness and efficiency, support programme delivery, and ensure adherence to ICAO's Staff Regulations and Rules, while advising management on policy implications and risks.

Responsibilities

The HR Specialist (Policy) is responsible for comprehensive HR policy management. This includes reviewing and analyzing existing policies to identify gaps and best practices, conducting research and benchmarking against industry and UN standards, and making recommendations for improvement. The role involves developing new HR policies, procedures, and guidance materials, coordinating consultations with stakeholders, and advocating for policy changes. Implementation and coordination involve ensuring consistent and compliant application of policies, advising management and staff on policy matters, facilitating the roll-out of new policies, and responding to audit queries. Additionally, the specialist provides authoritative interpretation and advice on the HR regulatory framework, analyzes policy implications and risks, prepares opinions on complex HR issues, and contributes to strategic HR planning and business development objectives.

Work Experience

A minimum of seven years of progressive experience in human resources management is required, with at least five years focused on developing and implementing HR policies. Essential experience includes providing authoritative policy interpretation, HR advisory services, preparing policy-related reports for senior management, and working within the UN system or a comparable international organization. Desirable experience includes leading digital transformation initiatives, managing complex policy projects, and supervising staff.

Skills

Expert knowledge of HR policies, practices, and procedures; change management principles; discretion, confidentiality, and tact; strong legal analysis, research, presentation, and writing skills; persuasive negotiation abilities; advanced interviewing skills; effective communication (written and verbal); planning and organizing; accountability; and sound judgment and decision-making.

Explore related opportunities