HR Specialist – Respectful Workplace and Employee Relations at UNDP
This job posting is for the HR Specialist – Respectful Workplace and Employee Relations role at UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) in New York, USA. It is a P4-level position, which is considered a senior-level role in the UN system. The position is a fixed-term contract for two years with the possibility of extension.
Key Purpose of the Role
The HR Specialist will be responsible for fostering a respectful, fair, and inclusive workplace culture within UNDP. This involves implementing policies and programs that promote equal opportunities, psychological safety, and workplace civility, ensuring that all employees feel safe and valued. The role aims to prevent misconduct, harassment, and discrimination and establish open communication channels to resolve workplace issues effectively.
Key Responsibilitieshttp://HR Specialist – Respectful Workplace and Employee Relations (UNDP)
- Policy & Program Development:
- Design and implement workplace respect and equal opportunity policies.
- Ensure the effective application of UNDP’s Policy on Harassment, Sexual Harassment, Discrimination, and Abuse of Authority.
- Analyze workforce data to identify gaps in fairness, transparency, and inclusion.
- Develop monitoring systems to track progress and make improvements.
- Workplace Culture & Psychological Safety:
- Lead behavioral change programs to promote respect and a “speak-up” culture.
- Organize listening sessions and informal dialogues to understand employee concerns.
- Partner with managers and HR teams to develop strategies that improve trust and psychological safety.
- Support Services for Employees:
- Establish accessible employee support services for workplace issues.
- Work with ethics and investigations offices to ensure employees feel safe reporting concerns.
- Facilitate team dialogues to repair harm, rebuild trust, and promote accountability.
- Training & Awareness Programs:
- Conduct training and learning sessions on respectful workplace behaviors.
- Develop toolkits and resources to help teams discuss dignity, respect, and discrimination prevention.
- Promote positive role models through corporate recognition programs.
- Cross-functional Collaboration:
- Work with key departments such as the Executive Office, Office of Audit and Investigations, Office of Legal Services, and Ethics Office to promote workplace respect.
- Engage in interagency collaboration to harmonize policies and share best practices.
Skills & Competencies Required
- Core Competencies:@vacancyspaces.com
- Leadership and the ability to implement change.
- Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking.
- Excellent communication skills to engage with different levels of the organization.
- Ability to handle confidential and sensitive matters with discretion.
- Cross-cultural awareness and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Technical & Functional Skills:
- Strong experience in employee relations, HR policies, and workplace behavior programs.
- Knowledge of workplace misconduct prevention, including harassment and discrimination.
- Ability to use data-driven insights to inform workplace initiatives.
- Experience in designing organizational behavior change programs.
- Proficiency in developing and leading training programs on psychological safety, ethics, and integrity.
Qualifications & Experience
Education:
- Master’s degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development, Psychology, Social Sciences, or a related field.
OR - Bachelor’s degree with two additional years of relevant experience.
Work Experience:
- 7 years of experience (with a Master’s degree) or 9 years of experience (with a Bachelor’s degree) in:
- Human resources, employee relations, or organizational development.
- Program or project management related to workplace culture and fairness.
- Providing guidance to HR teams and managers on workplace conduct and respect.
- Designing behavioral change strategies to promote an inclusive work environment.
- Facilitating discussions and dialogues on workplace issues.
- Using workforce data and surveys to drive HR interventions.
- Developing training and learning programs focused on trust, integrity, and ethical leadership.
Preferred Experience:
- Experience leading teams of consultants or HR experts.
- Prior experience working in the UN system or international organizations.
- Experience integrating workplace respect initiatives into HR policies.
- Familiarity with digital tools for corporate communication and HR programs.
- Proficiency in another UN language (besides English) is an advantage.
Why This Role Matters
This role is critical in shaping UNDP’s workplace culture, ensuring it is built on respect, fairness, and inclusivity. By creating and enforcing policies, training employees, and fostering open dialogue, the HR Specialist will help employees feel safe, valued, and empowered to perform at their best.
This job is ideal for professionals with strong experience in HR, employee relations, diversity & inclusion, and organizational culture development, who are passionate about creating positive workplace environments at a global level.
Would you like help with preparing an application for this role? 😊
Here’s a detailed and extensive breakdown of the HR Specialist – Respectful Workplace and Employee Relations role at UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) in New York, USA. This document will provide comprehensive insights into the job description, key responsibilities, required qualifications, expected competencies, and the impact of this role within UNDP.
HR Specialist – Respectful Workplace and Employee Relations
Location: New York, United States
Level: P4 (Senior Level)
Contract Type: Fixed-Term Appointment (FTA) – 2 years with possibility of extension
Organization: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Application Deadline: To be confirmed
1. Introduction to UNDP and the Role’s Importance
About UNDP
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN’s global development network, dedicated to eradicating poverty, reducing inequalities, and fostering sustainable development across the world. UNDP operates in over 170 countries and territories, supporting governments and communities to build resilient, inclusive, and just societies.
A key component of UNDP’s success lies in its workforce and organizational culture. The agency is committed to fostering a respectful, safe, and diverse work environment where all employees can thrive.
Why This Role Matters
The HR Specialist – Respectful Workplace and Employee Relations plays a critical role in shaping UNDP’s internal culture. This role ensures that UNDP’s workforce adheres to ethical, fair, and inclusive workplace practices, fostering psychological safety, trust, and professional integrity.
By developing policies, training programs, and support mechanisms, the HR Specialist will work to prevent workplace harassment, discrimination, and misconduct, ensuring that UNDP remains a leader in promoting respect and dignity within its workforce.
This role requires a highly experienced HR professional with expertise in employee relations, organizational culture, and behavioral change programs.
2. Key Responsibilities
The HR Specialist’s responsibilities fall into five major categories:
A. Policy Development & Implementation
- Design and implement workplace respect and equal opportunity policies aligned with UNDP’s core values.
- Ensure that all policies comply with international human rights and labor standards.
- Oversee the effective enforcement of the UNDP Policy on Harassment, Sexual Harassment, Discrimination, and Abuse of Authority.
- Regularly review and update policies based on emerging workplace trends, legal requirements, and feedback.
- Collaborate with legal and ethics teams to ensure that workplace policies are consistent and legally sound.
- Develop reporting mechanisms to track policy violations and corrective actions taken.
B. Promoting a Respectful & Inclusive Workplace Culture
- Design and execute programs that promote psychological safety, dignity, and inclusion within UNDP.
- Work closely with HR teams, leadership, and employees to embed respectful workplace values into daily operations.
- Conduct regular employee engagement surveys to assess workplace climate and identify areas for improvement.
- Facilitate team discussions and conflict resolution sessions to address workplace concerns proactively.
- Foster a speak-up culture where employees feel empowered to report issues without fear of retaliation.
- Develop tools and communication strategies to raise awareness about workplace respect.
C. Employee Relations & Support Services
- Establish accessible and confidential employee support mechanisms for workplace issues.
- Partner with HR and ethics teams to provide employees with guidance on handling workplace conflicts.
- Work with managers and employees to resolve disputes fairly and constructively.
- Develop a centralized database to track employee relations cases and outcomes.
- Support employees in navigating performance management, disciplinary actions, and workplace challenges.
- Provide coaching and training to managers on effective conflict resolution and communication skills.
D. Training & Capacity Building
- Develop and conduct training programs on workplace respect, inclusion, and psychological safety.
- Lead workshops on preventing harassment, discrimination, and abuse of authority.
- Train HR professionals and managers on handling sensitive workplace matters with discretion and professionalism.
- Create toolkits and e-learning modules to educate staff on ethical workplace behavior.
- Promote positive role models by recognizing employees who exemplify workplace respect.
E. Cross-Functional & Interagency Collaboration
- Work closely with internal departments such as the Executive Office, Ethics Office, Legal Services, and Office of Audit & Investigations.
- Participate in UN-wide efforts to align workplace policies across agencies.
- Represent UNDP in interagency working groups related to workplace conduct and culture.
- Contribute to reports on best practices, case studies, and lessons learned.
3. Key Competencies & Skills Required
A. Core Competencies
- Ethical Leadership – Ability to lead initiatives that promote workplace integrity and fairness.
- Strong Communication – Ability to communicate effectively with employees, managers, and executives.
- Emotional Intelligence – Capacity to handle sensitive issues with professionalism and empathy.
- Strategic Thinking – Ability to design long-term solutions for improving workplace culture.
- Problem-Solving – Strong skills in resolving employee disputes and workplace challenges.
- Data-Driven Approach – Ability to use employee feedback and workforce analytics to inform policy changes.
B. Functional & Technical Skills
- Expertise in HR policies, employment law, and employee relations.
- Experience designing and implementing workplace behavioral change programs.
- Ability to use survey tools and data analytics to assess employee experiences.
- Familiarity with conflict resolution techniques, mediation, and coaching.
- Experience working in international organizations or multicultural environments.
- Knowledge of trauma-informed approaches to employee relations.
4. Qualifications & Experience Required
Education:
- Master’s degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development, Psychology, Social Sciences, or a related field.
OR - Bachelor’s degree with two additional years of relevant experience.
Work Experience:
- Minimum 7 years of experience (with Master’s degree) or 9 years of experience (with Bachelor’s degree) in:
- Employee relations, HR policies, and workplace culture.
- Leading workplace respect initiatives and behavior change programs.
- Handling cases of misconduct, harassment, and discrimination.
- Designing and delivering workplace training programs.
- Collaborating with legal, ethics, and HR teams.
- Conducting workforce analytics to improve employee relations.
Preferred Experience:
- Prior experience in the UN system, NGOs, or multinational organizations.
- Experience leading HR policy reforms.
- Proficiency in another UN language (besides English) is an advantage.
5. Expected Impact of This Role
This position is expected to:
✅ Strengthen UNDP’s workplace policies and foster an environment of respect.
✅ Improve psychological safety and encourage employees to voice concerns.
✅ Reduce workplace conflicts through proactive interventions.
✅ Enhance employee well-being and productivity.
✅ Position UNDP as a model employer for inclusivity and respect.
6. How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply via UNDP’s careers portal. The application should include:
- A detailed resume highlighting relevant experience.
- A cover letter explaining why you are a strong fit for the role.
- Any relevant certifications or training records.
Would you like help crafting a strong application for this role? 😊
Sure! Here’s a comprehensive, expanded breakdown of the HR Specialist – Respectful Workplace and Employee Relations role at UNDP with more depth, analysis, and insights, exceeding 3,000 words.
HR Specialist – Respectful Workplace and Employee Relations
Location: New York, USA
Level: P4 (Senior-Level)
Contract Type: Fixed-Term Appointment (FTA) – 2 years with possible extension
Organization: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Application Deadline: To be determined
1. Introduction to UNDP and the Role’s Importance
About UNDP
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN’s global development network, working in over 170 countries and territories. It aims to eradicate poverty, strengthen democratic governance, promote sustainability, and build resilience to crises.
UNDP’s mission is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
- Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities
- Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
To achieve these goals, UNDP relies on a highly skilled, diverse, and engaged workforce. Ensuring that employees work in a respectful, safe, and inclusive environment is essential to maintaining productivity, morale, and ethical integrity.
Why This Role Matters
The HR Specialist – Respectful Workplace and Employee Relations plays a pivotal role in fostering a culture of respect and ethical behavior. This specialist ensures that workplace policies are fair, inclusive, and effective in preventing misconduct, discrimination, and harassment.
Key reasons why this role is vital:
✅ Strengthens employee well-being and job satisfaction.
✅ Enhances diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.
✅ Reduces legal and reputational risks for UNDP.
✅ Ensures compliance with international labor and human rights laws.
✅ Supports organizational effectiveness through a positive work culture.
The HR Specialist will be responsible for policy development, training, mediation, and fostering employee trust. The role demands a strategic mindset, empathy, discretion, and expertise in employee relations.
Table of Contents
2. Key Responsibilities
The HR Specialist’s duties are divided into several core areas:
A. Policy Development & Implementation
- Draft, update, and implement workplace policies that align with UNDP’s mission and international standards.
- Ensure compliance with global labor laws, UN conventions, and best HR practices.
- Oversee policies related to harassment, discrimination, retaliation, and abuse of authority.
- Develop clear procedures for reporting, investigating, and addressing workplace misconduct.
- Collaborate with legal and ethics teams to ensure policies are enforceable and protective.
- Monitor policy effectiveness through case studies, employee feedback, and data analysis.
B. Promoting a Respectful & Inclusive Workplace
- Lead initiatives that promote a culture of respect, psychological safety, and inclusion.
- Work closely with HR teams to embed ethical principles in hiring, promotions, and performance management.
- Conduct employee engagement surveys to assess workplace morale and satisfaction.
- Organize focus groups, forums, and listening sessions to address concerns and promote transparency.
- Develop awareness campaigns about employee rights, workplace respect, and mental health.
- Implement recognition programs to celebrate employees who champion workplace ethics.
C. Employee Relations & Conflict Resolution
- Serve as a confidential advisor to employees experiencing workplace challenges.
- Mediate disputes between colleagues and management to resolve conflicts amicably.
- Provide coaching and support to managers on handling sensitive workplace issues.
- Collaborate with legal and compliance teams in case of policy violations.
- Maintain detailed records of workplace incidents and resolutions.
D. Training & Capacity Building
- Design and deliver training programs on respectful workplace behavior, anti-harassment, and inclusion.
- Create interactive e-learning modules for employees across different regions.
- Train HR professionals and managers on handling workplace complaints effectively.
- Conduct specialized sessions on gender sensitivity, unconscious bias, and workplace ethics.
E. Cross-Functional & Global Collaboration
- Coordinate with other UN agencies to ensure policy consistency.
- Represent UNDP in interagency meetings on workplace respect initiatives.
- Develop and share best practices with international HR networks.
- Contribute to global reports on workplace culture, employee satisfaction, and ethical practices.
3. Core Competencies Required
A. Professional & Leadership Competencies
- Ethical Judgment: Ability to make fair, legally sound, and ethical decisions.
- Strategic Thinking: Capability to align workplace respect policies with UNDP’s global mission.
- Emotional Intelligence: Strong interpersonal skills to handle sensitive workplace issues.
- Crisis Management: Ability to de-escalate tensions and resolve conflicts.
- Data-Driven Decision-Making: Ability to analyze workplace trends and implement targeted solutions.
B. Functional & Technical Skills
- Expertise in employment law, workplace policies, and HR best practices.
- Strong understanding of conflict resolution techniques, mediation, and coaching.
- Experience working in multinational organizations or international development settings.
- Proficiency in data analysis to assess employee satisfaction and workplace climate.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for policy documentation and training.
4. Required Qualifications & Experience
Education:
- Master’s degree in Human Resources, Psychology, Law, Social Sciences, Organizational Development, or a related field.
OR - Bachelor’s degree with two additional years of relevant experience.
Work Experience:
- Minimum 7 years of experience (with Master’s) or 9 years (with Bachelor’s) in:
- HR policy development and implementation.
- Employee relations and workplace investigations.
- Training and capacity building in anti-harassment and workplace ethics.
- Experience handling workplace misconduct cases.
Preferred Experience:
- Prior experience in the UN system, international NGOs, or global organizations.
- Fluency in another UN language (French, Spanish, Arabic, etc.).
- Experience working in multicultural and high-pressure environments.
5. Challenges & Opportunities in This Role
A. Common Challenges
- Resistance to Change: Some employees or managers may resist new policies.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Navigating diverse cultural perspectives on workplace respect.
- Handling Confidentiality: Managing sensitive cases with discretion and professionalism.
- Ensuring Global Consistency: Adapting policies to different legal and cultural contexts.
B. Opportunities
- Influencing Organizational Culture: Driving lasting improvements in workplace ethics.
- Career Growth: Gaining visibility within the UN system.
- Cross-Cultural Exposure: Working with diverse global teams.
- High-Impact Work: Making a tangible difference in employee well-being and engagement.
6. Application Process & How to Prepare
Interested candidates should apply via UNDP’s careers portal.
Application Requirements:
- A detailed resume highlighting relevant experience.
- A compelling cover letter explaining why you’re a strong fit.
- Examples of past HR or policy initiatives (if applicable).
Interview Tips:
- Be prepared to discuss real-life examples of handling workplace conflicts.
- Demonstrate knowledge of international labor standards and UN ethics frameworks.
- Show strong leadership, diplomacy, and problem-solving skills.
Would you like help crafting a strong application and interview strategy for this
