Main purpose of job:

The Human Resources leads the people strategy for the Brazil Network of the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, providing support to all employees and offering expertise in recruitment, performance management, talent development, learning & development, employee relations and HR policy issues.

The Deputy Head of Human Resources will take one of the business partner roles, for one specific post, overseeing Shared Services and Occupational Health; oversight of compliance activities and legal risk management, payroll and assurance for HR processes.

This position will also play a significant deputy role, taking the leadership responsibility of the HR team when the Head of HR is absent, being able to step up and manage people and processes. The Deputy should also act as a senior partner of the Head of HR collaborating with strategic views and delivery of the people strategy for the Mission.

Roles and responsibilities:

• Oversight of the payroll contract and process:

          The lead on the overseeing of the payroll contract ensuring effective communication and focus on                 continuous improvement, operational efficiency, risk management and customer service with multi-               level engagement across internal and external stakeholders. As well as strong understanding of                   policies and legislation including pay and pensions legislation.  Accountable for monitoring the                      Country based staff pay budget with the HR Manager. This includes preparing detailed, accurate                  and high-level reports for tracking, decision making, and analysis.

• HR Business Partner and Deputising for Head of HR:

         Work in partnership with senior leaders to develop people solutions that enable the organisation to               achieve its objectives. Provide strategic input on HR topics and help leaders develop effective people           solutions. Coach leaders to perform effectively, develop capability, and sustain change, supporting               the delivery of the people agenda while navigating ambiguity. Advising on employee policy and                     labour law areas.

         Step up to cover for the Head of HR in your absences, engaging with senior leadership team,                       including attending HR and senior budget holder meetings with HMA and Deputy Ambassador and               Director CS.  Supporting corporate reform and change across the network for all HMG departments             as required, providing costings and feeding into strategic change discussions.  

• Recruitment:

          Assisting departments with their recruitment activities to ensure effectiveness and compliance.                      Building and maintaining strong relationships with line managers, HR partners, and external                          suppliers. Ensure compliance with Civil Service Commission principles and internal policies.

• Line management:

  The Deputy Head of Human Resources will directly manage 2 staff ensuring robust line management processes are in place covering learning and development, performance management, effective tasking & holding to account, and forward planning for all HR projects and day to day HR work, including ensuring full compliance with all local labour laws and global and local HR policies.

Resources managed (staff and expenditure):

The Deputy Head of HR will oversee 2 Country based staff.

Essential on arrival:

• At least 4 years of Human Resources or related experience, with at least 3 years of management experience.
• Consistent knowledge of essential HR processes such as: recruitment, payroll, benefits, employee relations and performance processes.
• Strong knowledge of Brazilian labour laws.
• Good judgement and proven record of handling sensitive employee relations matters.
• Ability to pay close attention to detail and follow-up on outstanding issues.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills both English & Portuguese.

Language requirements: 

Language:  English and Portuguese 

Level of language required:  Proficient English and Portuguese (spoken and written).