Head of Human Capital at Ol Pejeta Conservancy (OPC)

Role Summary

The Head of Human Capital (HC) is an operational leader responsible for driving Ol Pejeta Conservancy’s people agenda. This role involves aligning HC strategies with the organization’s mission to attract, develop, and retain top talent while fostering a culture of excellence, inclusivity, and innovation. The Head of HC oversees key functions, including HC service delivery, talent development, compensation and benefits, leadership development, staff welfare, and culture transformation. This position ensures the effective creation and implementation of HC policies and practices that support OPC’s conservation and community development objectives while maintaining compliance with labour laws and regulations. As a key advisor to the leadership team, the Head of HC will play a critical role in shaping OPC’s organizational culture and workforce strategy.

Responsibilities

• Develop and Execute HC Strategy: The Head of HC will design and implement a comprehensive HC strategy that aligns with OPC’s mission and strategic goals. This includes workforce planning, talent acquisition, succession planning, and ensuring the HC strategy supports the organization’s conservation and community development objectives.
• Lead HC Service Delivery: Ensure efficient and effective delivery of HC services, including recruitment, onboarding, and employee records management, and HC systems administration. Establish and maintain HC policies, processes and systems that support operational excellence and compliance with labour laws and regulations.
• Drive Talent Development: Oversee the design and implementation of training and development programs to enhance employee skills, performance, and career growth. Partner with Division heads to identify talent needs and create tailored development plans that align with organizational goals.
• Oversee Compensation and Benefits: Develop and manage competitive compensation and benefits programs that attract, retain, and motivate employees. Ensure pay structures are equitable, aligned with market benchmarks, and compliant with statutory requirements. Regularly review and update benefits programs to enhance employee satisfaction and well-being.
• Champion Leadership Development: Lead initiatives to identify and nurture leadership potential within the organization. Design and deliver leadership development programs that equip current and emerging leaders with the skills and competencies needed to drive OPC’s mission. Provide coaching and mentorship to senior leaders.
• Promote Staff Welfare: Develop and implement programs that support employee well-being, including mental health initiatives, work-life balance policies, and employee assistance programs. Act as an advocate for staff welfare, ensuring that employee concerns are addressed in a timely and effective manner.
• Foster Culture Transformation: Lead efforts to embed OPC’s values into the Conservancy’s culture, promoting inclusivity, collaboration, and accountability. Partner with senior leaders to drive change management initiatives and build a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
• Ensure Compliance with Labor Laws: Maintain up-to-date knowledge of employment laws and regulations in Kenya. Ensure that OPC’s HC policies and practices comply with legal requirements and mitigate risks associated with non-compliance.
• Monitor HC Metrics and Reporting: Develop and maintain HC dashboards to track key metrics such as employee turnover, engagement, and training effectiveness. Provide regular reports to the CEO and Board on HC initiatives and their impact on organizational performance.
• Build and Lead the HC Team: Recruit, develop, and manage a high-performing HC team capable of delivering exceptional service to the organization. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and innovation within the HC Division. Provide ongoing training and professional development opportunities for HC staff.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Representation: Act as a key advisor to the CEO and senior leadership team on HC matters. Represent OPC in HC-related discussions with external stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, professional associations, and HC networks. Build partnerships with external organizations to enhance HC practices and support OPC’s people agenda.

Qualifications and Skills:

 Qualification

• Bachelor’s degree in human resource management, Business Administration, Organizational Development, or a related field.
• A master’s degree will be an added advantage

Professional Qualifications/Membership to professional bodies

• Membership with the Institute of Human Resource Management (IHRM) Kenya is mandatory.

Experience

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in human resource management, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record in strategic HR management, culture transformation, and leadership development.
• Experience in non-profit or conservation organizations is highly desirable.

Skills

• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Deep understanding of HR policies, practices, and labour laws in Kenya.
• Proven ability to drive change and foster a positive organizational culture.
• High ethical standards and a commitment to OPC’s mission.