About GIZ Kenya

GIZ has been supporting development in Kenya on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) since 1975. Its work spans key areas including economic development, green energy, governance, agriculture and food security, and peace and security.

GIZ works closely with the Kenyan Government, private sector, civil society, KfW and other development partners to promote sustainable development, strengthen institutions and build the capacity of individuals and organisations to improve livelihoods and create lasting impact.

We are seeking a Head of HR to lead HR operations at the GIZ Kenya Country Office, including support to the Somalia and Sudan portfolios, ensuring compliance with the relevant labour laws and GIZ regulations. The role will develop and implement HR strategies and provide strategic HR advice to senior management.

Responsibilities

• Lead the effective delivery of core HR functions, including staffing, learning and development, employee engagement and HR administration.
  
• Oversee HR operations as the central point of contact for HR matters across GIZ Kenya.
  
• Ensure compliance with Kenyan labour laws, GIZ policies, rules and regulations, and communicate requirements effectively.
  
• Develop, review and update HR policies, standards and procedures in line with GIZ developments and local legislation.
  
• Provide strategic HR advice to senior management and advise on complex people-related matters.
  
• Represent country management in engagement with national staff representatives.
  
• Support audits and internal controls on HR-related matters while ensuring high-quality HR services.
  

• Responsible for orders and measures assigned to within the HR section and for managing and monitoring staff
  

• Manage staff in accordance with management principles and guidelines to promote a sense of corporate identity.
  

• Enable employees to carry out tasks independently up to the required standards and create scope for creativity and innovation.
  

• Be responsible for recruiting, selecting, grading, allocation of tasks and professional development of assigned staff
  

• Carry out annual staff assessment and development talks for the assigned staff
  

Personnel recruitment

• Advise on band allocation, function description / designation and instrument/personnel/staffing concept
  

• Ensure an inclusive recruitment and selection process in accordance with local regulations and GIZ P+R
  

• Advise on personnel selection methods and techniques in accordance to GIZ P+R
  

Conditions of employment and HR support

• Ensure transparent and compliant contract management in line with Kenyan labour law and GIZ employment conditions.
  

• Oversee accurate and timely personnel data management, including HR systems and payroll records.
  

• Maintain up-to-date information on employment conditions, remuneration, salary structures, job descriptions and classifications for national and seconded/regional staff.
  

• Ensure consistent application of HR policies, contractual requirements and statutory regulations.
  

HR instruments and procedures

• Ensure implementation and communication of inclusive HR policies, procedures and guidelines in line with GIZ standards and Kenyan labour laws.
  

• Maintain and update the National Staff Employment Handbook and HR documentation.
  

• Coordinate onboarding, staff assessments, performance and development processes.
  

• Identify staff development needs and coordinate training, capacity building and career development initiatives.
  

• Oversee staff wellness and health insurance programmes in compliance with GIZ standards and local regulations.
  

• Ensure effective HR records management, data processing and compliance with GIZ requirements.
  

• Conduct HR compliance pre-audits and recommend corrective actions where necessary.
  

• Provide solutions and advice on complex HR management matters.
  

• Coordinate and evaluate staff development and assessment processes, making recommendations for personnel development.
  

• Support continuous improvement of HR practices and perform other duties as assigned by management
  

Required qualifications, competence and experience

• Master’s degree in business administration, Human Resources, or a related field
  

• Minimum 10 years’ relevant professional experience, including at least 5 years in a disciplinary leadership role.
  

• Valid IHRM Kenya membership certificate with good standing
  

• CHRP certification.
  

• Proven experience working in an international/multicultural environment with focus on sub-saharan region.
  

• Strong knowledge of Kenyan labour laws and HR practices, with demonstrated ability to strengthen talent acquisition strategies.
  

• Strong leadership, people management, interpersonal and intercultural skills.
  

• Excellent communication, problem-solving, organisational and conceptual skills with a strong service orientation.
  

• Experience in budget management and managing multiple priorities, projects and deadlines.
  

• Strong digital literacy and ability to work independently and take initiative.
  

• Excellent written and spoken English; knowledge of German is an added advantage.
  

• Willingness to continuously learn and upskill in line with job requirements.
  

Assignment Details

Duty Station: Nairobi

Duration: Initial contract up to 31.12.2027 with possibility of extension

Vacancy Reference Number: GIZ/CO/07/08/2026

Application details:

• A statement of suitability for this position.
  

• Expected salary and notice period.
  

• 2-page note on any of the topics given below:
  

  a) How do you consolidate HR strategies with overall business objectives?
  

  OR
  

  b) How do you promote diversity in the workplace?