Head of Human Resources EMBL

European Molecular Biology Laboratory

Heidelberg, Germany

Staff Category: Staff Member
Contract Duration: 5 years
Grading: 10
Closing Date: 15 January 2012
Reference number: HD_00179

Job Description

The European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) is one of the most highly ranked scientific research organizations in the world. The EMBL Administration is responsible for providing administrative services to 1,500 members of personnel from over 70 nations based at the headquarters in Heidelberg (Germany) as well as those at its outstations in Grenoble (France), Hamburg (Germany), Hinxton (UK) and Monterotondo (Italy). The official languages of EMBL are English, French and German.

As in its other activities, EMBL strives to be a model for Scientific Administration. In order to achieve this EMBL’s Administration aspires to:

• Excel in providing non‐bureaucratic, timely and efficient administrative services through unobtrusive, flexible and effective processes and systems, in support of an international, progressive and nurturing working environment with highest quality staff. Within the Administration the Head of Human Resources is responsible to the Administrative Director and assists her/him in formulating departmental policy and developing goals and objectives;
• The appointee will lead multi-cultural teams, delivering support and professional customer-focused service to a complex international organization. The Head of Human Resources is responsible for the provision of professional Human Resources Management and ensuring that day-to-day HR deliverables are in conformance with the rules and regulations of the laboratory and with sound management practices. The Head of Human Resources manages all HR functions, including the recruitment, compensation & benefits (personnel management, payroll, pensions, allowances, health insurance), oversees the correct applications of staff rules and regulations, the HR SAP Module and the General Training and Development Programme.

For more specific responsibilities, please click here.

Qualifications and Experience

Applicants should hold an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in human resources management, public or business administration or related area. A first level university degree with relevant combination of academic qualifications and experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. At least 10 years of progressively responsible experience in international human resources management, public or business administration or related area. A minimum of 5 years leadership experience. Experience in project management. Experience in all aspects of human resources management, benefits and entitlements, human resources policies, procedures, practices, regulations and rules recruitment, performance management, training design and management, gained from both private and public sectors. Line management experience would be an asset.

The following qualifications and skills are essential:

• A solid service and client oriented leader with a strategic vision and a proven track record of successful change management in a dynamic environment, who has an ability to find innovative solutions to problems, to understand and work from different stakeholder perspectives, and a talent for engaging and inspiring a wide range of internal and external audiences;
• Ability to adapt to a rapidly changing environment as well as being an integral part of that change;
• Strong analytical skills and the proven ability to provide seasoned technical advice on a broad range of HR and organizational matters;
• Proven ability to plan and organise work and to work to tight deadlines, often in a high pressure environment;
• Excellent drafting ability and communication skills, both oral and written, including the ability to explain and defend complex HR and organizational issues to all hierarchy levels. Excellent negotiating skills;
• Proven record of creating an enabling environment in a multicultural, multi-ethnic setting and to effectively lead, mentor, motivate and develop people with a different national and cultural background;
• Fluency in both written and oral English is mandatory. German would be very beneficial, French would be beneficial, but neither is required. Knowledge of any other widely spoken language would be an asset;
• In addition, proficiency in computer applications relevant to an international management environment, including experience in recruitment systems and MS Office programs is needed. Knowledge of SAP would be a strong asset.

Application Instructions

Please apply online through www.embl.org/jobs

Additional Information

EMBL is an inclusive, equal opportunity employer offering attractive conditions and benefits appropriate to an international research organisation.

Please note that appointments on fixed term contracts can be renewed, depending on circumstances at the time of the review.