Head of HR, Cardiff University Kazakhstan

Астана, улица Сыганак, 38/1

Описание вакансии

Cardiff University Kazakhstan is seeking an experienced HR Manager to lead the HR department, develop the team, and implement best practices in human resource management. This is a unique opportunity to work in an international academic environment and influence the university’s strategic development.

Purpose of the Role

To provide strategic and operational leadership of the university’s HR function.
The role combines managing the HR team with strategic collaboration with senior leadership and key stakeholders to achieve the university’s long-term objectives, as well as supporting transformation and organizational development processes.

We are looking for a versatile professional with extensive and in-depth HR experience and excellent communication skills.

What We Offer

Employment in accordance with the labor legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan;
Contract term: 1 year (fixed-term employment contract) with the possibility of extension;
Full-time employment, 5-day working week;
30 days of annual paid leave;
Competitive salary commensurate with responsibilities and duties;
The opportunity to contribute to an internationally recognized educational project;
Opportunities for professional development.

The University is committed to equal opportunities and strives to create an inclusive working environment. We welcome applicants regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, religion, age, or other characteristics.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the HR department, develop and coordinate the work of HR staff;
Organize and monitor HR administration (employee records, employment contracts, leave, sick leave, dismissals, orders, and HR reporting);
Ensure compliance with the labor legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan, local regulations, and university policies;
Advise managers and staff on HR policies, labor law, and best practices;
Manage complex HR cases (complaints, disciplinary actions, appeals);
Support and implement transformation initiatives and organizational change projects;
Partner with faculties and departments on staff strategy and development;
Negotiate and interact with trade unions and other key stakeholders;
Analyze HR data, prepare reports, and provide recommendations for management decisions;
Develop and deliver training programs, workshops, and staff development initiatives;
Represent the HR function at the university leadership level and in committees;
Control HR documentation, prepare reports for government bodies and internal audits;
Participate in project groups and working meetings;
Analyze and optimize HR processes, deliver training sessions;
Work on organizational design projects (job evaluation and development);
Lead and support staff recruitment initiatives, implementing best practice in candidate, vacancy and agency management, as appropriate;
Develop and deliver relevant global mobility processes, as appropriate (e.g. visa and work permit support), ensuring legal compliance;
Act as an equality, diversity and inclusion champion;
Represent the HR department in working groups and projects;
Maintain and develop professional knowledge, monitor changes in labor legislation;
Ensure confidentiality and compliance with university policies on health, safety, and equality.

Candidate Requirements

Qualifications:

Higher education (preferably in HR, management, psychology, or law);
Additional postgraduate training / professional certification (if available);
Proven experience in the HR field;
English language proficiency at B2 level or above (IELTS 6.0+), fluency in Kazakh and Russian is mandatory.

Knowledge and Experience:

Significant experience as an HR specialist/manager in a large organization/university;
Expert knowledge of the labor legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan and HR practices;
Experience managing HR projects and implementing organizational change;
Full-scope HR administration experience;
Experience managing a team and developing HR staff;
Practice in labor dispute resolution and union relations;
Skills in HR data analysis and management reporting.

Skills:

Ability to influence strategic leadership decisions;
Adapt HR services to the needs of employees and departments;
Excellent communication skills (negotiations, trainings, focus groups);
Strong knowledge of labor law and modern HR practices;
Strong analytical abilities and confident use of IT tools.

Desirable Criteria:

Experience in higher education;
Experience in negotiations and union engagement;
Experience in organizational transformation and corporate culture change projects;
Practice in HRIS implementation and HR process automation.