HR Head – French West Africa

About the role

The HR Head is responsible for developing and implementing human resource strategies that support the organization’s operations and programmes across French West Africa. This senior position oversees recruitment, employee development, workforce planning, employee relations, compensation and benefits, compliance, and organisational culture, ensuring alignment with the institution’s mission and strategic objectives.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute HR policies and strategies aligned with organisational goals.
• Advise senior leadership on workforce planning and talent management.
• Lead end‑to‑end recruitment and talent acquisition for professionals, researchers, educators, and administrative staff.
• Implement succession planning and leadership development programmes.
• Foster a positive, inclusive work environment and manage employee relations, grievances, and disciplinary matters.
• Assess training needs, coordinate professional development, and promote continuous learning.
• Design and oversee performance appraisal systems, supporting managers in setting objectives and evaluating performance.
• Manage compensation structures and benefits programmes, ensuring market competitiveness and internal equity.
• Ensure compliance with labour laws and organisational policies, maintain HR records, and oversee audits and risk management.
• Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives and cultivate a culturally aware workplace.

Required profile

• Master’s degree or professional HR certification preferred.
• Minimum 10 years of HR experience, including at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Strategic HR leadership with strong understanding of labour laws and employment practices.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Expertise in change management, organisational development, and employee relations.
• Experience with HR analytics and workforce planning.
• Ability to manage cross‑cultural stakeholder engagement.

Required skills