Head of Human Resources HEO

The British High Commission (BHC) Nairobi is a large, complex, and diverse organization of around 400 people, including diplomats and country-based staff. It manages all aspects of the UK-Kenya bilateral relationship and hosts staff for British Embassy Mogadishu and regional roles.

The British High Commission (BHC) Nairobi is a large and diverse organization with approximately 400 staff, including diplomats and local employees, managing the UK-Kenya bilateral relationship and supporting regional operations. The Head of HR will report to the Director of Corporate Services and is crucial for enhancing the BHC's impact and improving the employee experience. The ideal candidate will be committed, dynamic, energetic, compassionate, discreet, efficient, and possess a strong background in HR management with a focus on service delivery.

1. Ensure the delivery of high-quality and efficient HR services through the team.
2. Serve as an accessible business partner for managers and team leaders requiring HR support.
3. Maintain a positive and approachable profile among BHC colleagues, fostering a reputation for fairness.
4. Regularly liaise with the FCDO’s regional corporate services hub in Pretoria for transactional services and advisory support.
5. Collaborate with BHC’s People Action Group on initiatives to enhance the workplace, supporting staff champions and incorporating best practices.
6. Work with colleagues on initiatives, both HQ-led and local, to promote an organizational culture aligned with BHC values.
7. Support efforts to prevent bullying, harassment, and discrimination, and advocate for fair and respectful staff treatment.
8. Stay updated on changes in Kenyan labour law and UK best practices to ensure BHC compliance.
9. Coordinate regular reviews of terms and conditions of service for country-based staff.
10. Lead on complex or sensitive individual HR cases, including legal matters.
11. Act as the primary contact between BHC and its staff, particularly through cooperation with the country-based staff association.
12. Maintain and report on HR metrics for the senior leadership team.
13. Apply innovation and continuous improvement principles to optimize team effectiveness and efficiency.
14. Lead on pay-related matters with the Corporate Services Director and Head of Finance, including annual pay settlements, performance-related pay, and local pay budget management.
15. Manage HR-related contracts, specifically for medical and pension provisions for country-based staff, maintaining provider relationships and leading procurement for renewals.
16. Manage the HR team, including supporting their professional development, task allocation, and ensuring overall efficiency across HR functions.

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resource Management or a related field; a Master’s Degree in Human Resource Management, Business Administration, Organizational Development, or a related discipline is an advantage.
2. Certified Human Resource Professional – Kenya (CHRP-K) qualification.
3. Full membership of the Institute of Human Resource Management (IHRM) with a valid practicing certificate.
4. Minimum of five years of relevant human resource management experience, with at least three years in a managerial role.
5. Demonstrated knowledge and practical application of Kenyan employment and labour laws, HR policies, and best practices.
6. Excellent written and verbal communication skills for preparing clear reports, policies, and correspondence.
7. Strong interpersonal and relationship management skills to engage effectively with employees and stakeholders at all levels.
8. Sound problem-solving, negotiation, and conflict-resolution skills.
9. Proven track record of owning service delivery and taking accountability.
10. High level of attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in HR processes, records, and documentation.
11. Strong organizational and planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
12. Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with professionalism, integrity, and discretion.
13. Good working knowledge of Kenyan employment legislation and HR regulatory requirements.
14. Strong analytical skills to interpret HR data, generate insights, and prepare management reports.
15. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
16. Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and contribute effectively to organizational objectives.
17. Demonstrated leadership capabilities, including team management, coaching, and staff development.
18. Experience in an international working environment (e.g., embassy, multinational corporation, NGO) is desirable.
19. Understanding of, or practical experience in, Human Resource Management within the UK or UK Government context is desirable.
20. Budget management skills are desirable.
21. Contract management skills are desirable.