Organizational Setting

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through the FAO Strategic Framework by supporting the transformation to MORE efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Agri food systems, for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind. FAO Representation in Sierra Leone implements an integrated food security programme, focusing on diversification of livelihoods, managing natural resources and building resilience. The Office employs diverse team of experts locally but also attracts the available technical experts from the region and the headquarters. FAO works in close partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone, farmers and other stakeholders, supporting plans and policies that affect the food and nutrition security in the country; our work is a part of the corporate commitment to support countries to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, especially SDG 2 on Zero Hunger. The post is in the FAO Representation in Freetown, Sierra Leone.

Reporting Lines

The incumbent will work under the overall oversight of the FAO Representative (FAOR) and the direct supervision of the Human Resources Specialist.

The incumbent will maintain close coordination with operations, administration and programme teams.

Technical Focus

The incumbent will support the implementation of human resources operations and administrative support functions, ensuring:
• Effective coordination of recruitment, staffing, and onboarding processes.
• Accurate maintenance and verification of HR records, documentation, and database information.
• Timely support to employee contract administration, policy implementation, and HR compliance matters.
• Efficient organization of interviews, candidate communications, and credential verification processes.
• Proper follow-up and response to HR-related requests, inquiries, and claims.

Tasks and Responsibilities

The incumbent will perform the following specific functions:
• Support the overall hiring plan for hiring of national and international affiliate workforce.
• Develop and/or review Terms of Reference of affiliate workforce and ensure compliance with current standards and regulations.
• Coordinate and manage the publication of calls to attract candidates for vacancies related to national and international affiliate workforce, ensuring proper dissemination to attract qualified talent.
• Organize and facilitate the selection process, including coordinating interviews with the selection panel and preparing reports on evaluated candidates.
• Manage the complete cycle of contracts for national and international affiliate workforce in the Global Resource Management System (GRMS), ensuring the collection and verification of required documentation.
• Supervise the validity of contracts for national and international affiliate workforce in and take appropriate measures in coordination with supervisors for renewal or termination as necessary.
• Provide administrative support, including recording worked hours for the payment of fees to national and international consultants and other related tasks.
• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Perform other tasks as required.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements    

•     Bachelor’s degree in human resources management, business administration, or a closely related field.
•     A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in human resources management or administration, preferably within the UN system, international organizations, or large public institutions.
•     Working knowledge (proficiency - level C) of English.
•     National of Sierra Leone.

FAO Core Competencies

•     Results Focus
•     Teamwork
•     Communication
•     Building Effective Relationships
•     Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Technical/Functional Skills  

•     Knowledge and experience in full-cycle human resources management functions, including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, learning and development, contract administration, and staff relations.
•     Experience in supporting HR operations within international organizations, public sector institutions, or development agencies.
•     Familiarity with HR policies, procedures, employment regulations, and administrative processes.
•     Experience in the use of HR information systems and databases for personnel administration and reporting.
•     Demonstrated high standards of ethics, professionalism, confidentiality, and integrity in handling sensitive HR matters and employee information.
•     Strong organizational, communication, and stakeholder coordination skills with the ability to manage multiple HR processes simultaneously.

Selection Criteria

•     Experience in full-cycle HR management functions, including recruitment, selection, onboarding, contract administration, employee relations, performance management, and HR operations.
•     Knowledge of HR policies, procedures, and employment regulations with ability to apply them consistently.
•     Experience using HR systems, managing personnel data, and preparing HR reports and documentation.
•     Strong coordination, communication, and organizational skills in supporting recruitment and HR processes.
•     High standards of ethics, integrity, and confidentiality in handling sensitive HR information.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION