Global HR Investigator at Mercy Corps

Program / Department Summary 

The Intake and Investigations division is tasked with the intake and investigation of all reports of ethics violations including safeguarding, fraud, corruption, and global human resources complaints including discrimination, bullying, harassment, or retaliation. The team is responsible for managing all phases of this process from intake to investigative conclusion and then works with senior leadership for case closure. The Intake and Investigation division reports to the Chief Ethics & Compliance Officer.

General Position Summary 

The Global Human Resources Investigator is responsible for conducting investigations into allegations of violations of Human Resources complaints involving discrimination, harassment, bullying and retaliation. The Investigator will plan, conduct, and prepare reports for assigned investigations. Investigator(s) may use the support of country HR team members as appropriate and available. Investigations will be conducted in the field and remotely, working in a variety of diverse cultural contexts and time zones. 

Essential Job Responsibilities 

• Effectively plan and execute impartial, thorough, timely investigations 
• Develop and draft timely investigation plans that identify risks and prioritize urgent issues 
• Conduct witness and subject interviews, both in person and remotely 
• Identify, collect, and review documentary evidence needed for investigations 
• Prepare detailed written investigation reports which may be subject to third party (donor) review 
• Maintain organized, confidential, and thorough investigation files 
• Provide full-cycle communication to complainant, Country Director, and other Mercy Corps team members where appropriate, i.e. security, compliance, human resources, support HR Code of Conduct and awareness efforts with country teams and leadership 
• Help identify lessons learned from global human resources investigations for the agency to consider when revising policies, procedures, and training 
• Help build trust and confidence in Mercy Corps’ reporting, investigation, and follow up systems and foster a climate where team members feel confident and comfortable coming forward with issues 
• Maintain appropriate confidentiality and a survivor centered approach 

 Knowledge and Experience 

• At least 5 years of experience as a trained and practiced investigator is required 
• Demonstrated knowledge and interest in human resources, a sensitivity to cultural diversity and gender issues 
• Experience working in humanitarian aid or development, either living overseas or spending a significant amount of time in foreign countries is preferred 
• Ability to navigate difficult circumstances with a calm demeanor and in a methodical, analytical manner 
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including report documentation 
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, effective organizational and interpersonal skills 
• Team members are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner and respect local laws 
• English fluency (written & verbally) required; strong preference for additional fluency in French, Swahili, Spanish and/or Arabic