CONTEXT

The MSF Operational Centre of Brussels (OCB) employs over 15,000 staff globally, with over 90% working in countries of operations across 37 countries. The Human Resources department supports this global workforce through a team of 130 primarily based in Brussels, Kinshasa, and Abidjan.

The Human Resources department supports this global workforce currently divided into 4 complementary hubs: the Operational HR Hub, the People Development Hub, the People Deployment Hub and the HR Information System Hub. In alignment with OCB’s strategic direction, the department will undergo structural adaptations and reinforcements to ensure a closer connection with operations and other MSF entities.

MSF’s operational “cells” are multidisciplinary teams based at HQ that support missions across multiple countries. Each cell typically includes roles such as Coordinator of Operations (CO), Deputy CO, Medical Officer, HRO, Finance, Logistics, and Supply. These teams are the primary interface between HQ and programmes.

As Deputy Human Resources Director – Operations, you will oversee the adapted Operational HR Hub, leading and transforming the strategic interface between HR and Operations. You will be responsible for embedding HR as a strategic, proactive, mission-aligned partner in operational delivery and transformation. This includes driving reforms in HR/Ops articulation, accelerating emergency responsiveness and scale-up, and advancing MSF-OCB’s 2026–2031 global workforce vision.

You will play a central role in shaping and delivering people strategies that are agile, inclusive, data-informed, and operations-driven.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic HR-Ops Leadership

• Co-lead translation of OCB’s operational ambitions into scalable HR strategies and architecture together with the HR Director
• Drive the operationalisation of the HR-OPS articulation model across HQ and programme/field settings, including the implementation of duo/triangular working models between HR/Ops/Cells.
• Ensure operational and contextualized integration of MSF priorities (DARA/DEI, Safeguarding, Climate Environmental Health), working closely with HR PMO and subject-matter experts to ensure implementation of transversal dossiers across HR department and in countries of operations
• Coordinate pilot initiatives evaluations and adapt strategies based on feedback and learning loops
• Represent HR in strategic operational planning cycles, ensuring proactive workforce scenario-building
• Represent HR/OPS in interdepartmental and intersectional platforms and working groups
• Lead change management efforts, with a focus on alignment, stakeholder engagement, and cultural transformation.

Supervision & Coaching of Embedded HR Functions

• Lead and mentor the HR/OPS teams and embedded HR roles across operational cells and OCB regional hubs
• Serve as an escalation point for complex HR issues, ensuring cases and situations are handled consistently, fairly, and in line with organisational policies and values. Identify recurring bottlenecks or patterns in escalations and advise on systemic solutions
• Facilitate cross-learning and support the professionalization of operational HR actors (e.g., HRCOs, PMs, HROs, Mobility etc.)

Global Workforce Development

• Oversee the acceleration of key-priorities (Mobility, Country-Based staff Development, Gender Leadership, etc.)
• Leverage regional dynamics to strengthen workforce strategies and improve workforce resilience
• Co-develop and scale context-sensitive talent development initiatives in partnership with L&D, Ops, and country HR teams
• Promote workforce equity and address structural barriers to representation, mobility, and leadership

Emergency HR Preparedness & Agility

• Design and implement scalable HR emergency model for OCB (governance, surge tools, SOPs)
• Strengthen HR’s capacity to rapidly respond to crisis and support post-emergency transitions
• Ensure HR agility across levels: delegation frameworks, surge rosters, and programme level protocol clarity
• Work closely with Staff Health Unit and other units to support emergencies response and continuation of care

Technology Stewardship & Data-Driven Decision Making

• Co-lead HR contribution to workforce analytics, scenario modelling, and real-time data dashboards
• Ensure operational relevance of HRIS systems (WeDoo, Homere, etc.) and alignment of confidential data protocols
• Foster a data-literate and actionable data culture among HR and operational leaders

Case and Crisis Management

• Support HR Director with duty of care and crisis as required
• Oversee case management processes, ensuring timely and fair resolution of HR issues together with the HR Director and Deputy HQ HR Director
• Implement and monitor disciplinary measures, ensuring they are consistent, transparent, and aligned with organizational policies

REQUIREMENTS

Education & Experience

• Master’s or equivalent professional experience
• Strategic management and/or organisational development background (strategic, risk management, negotiation, stakeholder engagement, policy development, data analysis, performance measurement, and change management
• Financial acumen and experience managing budgets and financial resources in alignment with HR strategies and forecasts
• Minimum of 8 years of experience with MSF or similar international humanitarian organisations, Recent experience in emergency settings and in operational leadership is a strong asset (ie. positions such as HOM/Country, Operation Coordinator, HRO, HRCO, etc)

Competencies

• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to think strategically and act tactically
• Ability to handle complex and sensitive issues with discretion and professionalism, while building high-trust relationships
• Deep understanding of operational constraints and ability to act with both agility and structure
• Strong analytical and negotiation skills
• Demonstrated mediation and communication abilities

Languages

• Proficient level in English, both written and spoken is mandatory
• Other MSF commonly used languages such as Arabic, French, Spanish, Italian is an asset

CONDITIONS

• Expected starting date: As soon as possible
• Location: Brussels (Belgium)
• Contract type: Open-ended contract – full-time
• Salary according to MSF-OCB HQ grid
• Meal Vouchers – Hospital Insurance (DKV) – Pension Plan – 100% reimbursement for public transportation costs
• Adhere to the MSF principles and to our managerial values: Respect, Transparency, Integrity, Accountability, Trust and Empowerment
• Adhere to the MSF Behavioral Commitments

How to Apply:

➢ Submit your application via the ‘Apply here‘ button on the vacancy page

➢ You will be directed to the online application form for this position

➢ It should take 5-10 minutes to complete. Thank you in advance for having your CV and motivation letter in English or French ready to upload (preferably in PDF format)

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

MSF values diversity and is committed to create an inclusive working environment. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of disability, gender identity, marital or civil partnership status, race, color or ethnic and national origins, religion or belief, or sexual orientation.

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