Manager: People, Culture & Learning

Overview

This leadership role directs and executes an integrated people function within an in-country programme, aiming to fortify the organisational culture, enhance workforce skills, and improve employee satisfaction throughout their tenure with the organisation. The Manager ensures the adaptation and implementation of global HR strategies tailored to local programme necessities and regulatory contexts.

Key Responsibilities

• Convert global people strategies into a localized plan aligned with programme priorities.
• Foster a values-centered, inclusive, and high-performing culture across the organisation.
• Lead initiatives to engage employees and improve their experience during the entire employee lifecycle.
• Utilize employee engagement and workforce data analytics to design focused interventions.
• Guide internal communications that promote culture and alignment within the team.
• Manage workforce planning, recruitment, onboarding, and succession processes.
• Ensure consistency and quality in performance management procedures.
• Enhance managerial capabilities through continuous coaching, training, and support.
• Develop and implement local learning and development strategies consistent with global frameworks.
• Collaborate with Global Learning and Development teams on needs assessment, training delivery, and impact analysis.
• Ensure compliance with local labor laws, organisational policies, and internal standards.
• Handle all employee relations matters, including grievance, disciplinary, and conflict resolution processes.
• Maintain HR systems, oversee employee records, and guarantee data accuracy.
• Implement HR policies and procedures fairly and timely.
• Serve as the primary liaison with legal and regulatory entities at the country level.
• Assist with compensation structure implementation, payroll accuracy, and benefits management.
• Monitor market trends to advise on competitive pay and benefits improvements.
• Communicate employee benefits through orientations and ongoing engagement.
• Co-develop and execute the local wellness strategy aligned with organisational objectives.
• Act as a trusted advisor to project and country leadership teams on people-related matters.
• Partner with line managers to implement people priorities and enhance leadership competence.
• Coordinate closely with HR Business Partners and Global People Culture & Learning teams to ensure alignment.
• Manage relationships with external service providers, legal advisors, training partners, and regulatory bodies.
• Support incident response and risk management procedures.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
• Master’s degree and/or HR professional certification considered an advantage.
• 6 to 10 years of progressive experience in human resources focusing on culture, learning, and operations.
• Experience in NGO or international development sectors is preferred.
• Strong familiarity with local labor legislation and HR best practices.

Competencies

• Strategic thinker with proven ability to execute plans effectively.
• Strong skills in influencing and managing stakeholders.
• Experienced in coaching and facilitation techniques.
• Exemplifies high integrity and sound judgment.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving abilities.
• Capable of navigating complex and dynamic environments.

Reporting and Collaboration

• Reports directly to the Senior Project Lead, with functional alignment to the HR Business Partner and Global People Team.
• Works closely with HR Business Partner and Global People Culture & Learning teams.
• Interfaces internally with Senior Project Lead, Country Leadership, and employees.
• Engages externally with service providers, legal advisors, training partners, and regulatory authorities.

Work Conditions

• Full-time employment located in Zambia.
• May require local and national travel.
• Occasional work outside regular hours may be necessary.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary plus performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive benefits including health coverage, retirement plans, and leave entitlements.
• Opportunities for career advancement, leadership development, and continued learning.