Head of the Human Resources Division

Head of the Human Resources Division

Job Description

The University of Geneva (UNIGE) is a multidisciplinary teaching and research institution with a long history, recognised worldwide. Founded in 1559, it currently brings together nearly 6,500 staff members and 18,300 students, organised within 9 faculties and 13 interfaculty centres and institutes. It promotes excellence and skills development at all levels and in all fields of knowledge, fostering debate, critical thinking, innovation and collective intelligence.

In accordance with the University Act, UNIGE carries out its activities along three axes:
1. Basic and advanced higher education as well as continuing education
2. Fundamental and applied scientific research
3. Service to society

Reporting to the Vice-Rector in charge of human resources, the duties of the post holder are:
• Ensure the application of HR policies and legal bases in human resources management
• Lead the Human Resources Division
• Implement the HR strategy
• Support the Rectorate and the various UER and UPER of the University in the prevention and management of specific HR situations and their resolution
• Represent the University of Geneva in partner organisations

The mission of the Human Resources Division, as described in the 2023-2030 HR strategy, aims to develop the following four axes for all University staff:
Axis 1: Develop a caring and stimulating work environment
Axis 2: Define and promote a strong managerial culture
Axis 3: Promote and enhance HR management serving users
Axis 4: Support talent development

Required Qualifications and Skills

Basic education and professional experience required

• University Master’s degree in HR or an equivalent qualification, supplemented by continuing education in management, project management, public administration, andragogy
• Proven and diverse experience in HR leadership in a position with high institutional exposure (ideally between 5 and 10 years in HR management with strategic project leadership and team management)
• Demonstrated ability to identify strategic and political issues of an institution
• Proven aptitude for project management
• Experience in the public service and academic environment desirable

Specific knowledge useful for the position

Strategic and management skills
-Knowledge of human, ethical and social issues related to HR activities and developments.
-Mastery of the entire employee lifecycle management.
-Strategic vision and HR management.
-Change management and process optimisation.
-Experience in managing psychosocial risks.

Specific knowledge related to the University of Geneva context
-Knowledge of the university and academic context in Switzerland desirable.
-Knowledge of Swiss labour law, in compliance with the legal and regulatory frameworks of the cantonal public administration.
-Ability to integrate new regulatory frameworks specific to UNIGE.
-Ability to understand institutional issues and the needs of the university community.

Managerial skills
-Dynamic, unifying, respectful and open leadership.
-Strong sense of exemplary conduct and public interest.
-Ability to prioritise in a highly demanding environment (stress, pressure).
-Capacity to explore alternative solutions and bring innovative solutions.
-Ability to measure the impact of decisions and activities on other sectors of the institution.
-Ability to position oneself as a driving force in strategic and political HR orientations.

Cross-cutting skills
-Strong communication and reflection skills.
-Decision-making ability based on an analytical, impartial and rational approach.
-Proficiency in English (C1 level) required.
-Proficiency in German (B2 level).

Start Date

1 August 2026 or to be agreed

Contact

Further information can be obtained from geoffrey.beukelaers@unige.ch

Additional Information

To respect the environment and optimise the processing time of your application, your file (curriculum vitae, cover letter, copies of diplomas and work certificates, list of publications) must be submitted exclusively online by clicking the button below "Apply now".

Paper applications are not accepted.

This is a permanent contract under DIP

Remarks

THE POSITION WILL LIKELY BE RE-FILLED WITHIN THE SERVICE.

The University of Geneva offers motivating employment conditions in a stimulating work environment. By joining us, you will have the opportunity to showcase your skills and personality and actively contribute to the reputation of an institution founded in 1559.

In the interest of gender parity, the University encourages applications from the underrepresented sex.