Director, Human Resources and Administration –MCA Zambia II

About MCA Zambia II

The Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) in Zambia, collaborating with the Government of the Republic of Zambia and the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) of the Government of the United States of America, delivers projects under the $491.75 million Farm to Market Compact (Compact) that promotes agriculture and agro-processing in the country through the implementation of the Roads and Access Project, Asset Finance Project, Agriculture Policy Reform and Institutional Strengthening (Ag PIR) Project, and American Catalyst Facility for Development (ACFD) Project. More information on the Compact can be found in the following link: https://www.mcc.gov/where-we-work/program/zambia-farm-to-market-compact/“.

The MCA Zambia II offices are in Lusaka, Zambia.

Director, Human Resources and Administration

Position Objective

The Human Resources (HR) and Administration unit within MCA is dedicated to providing technical support and ensuring the integrity of HR policies. This unit also oversees logistics, facilities, and administrative support. The goal is to offer responsive and responsible HR and administrative assistance to various programs in line with both MCC guidelines and local legislation. This approach ensures consistency across all operations and compliance with relevant requirements and promotes transparency and accountability in all practices.

The Director, HR and Administration orchestrates critical HR and administrative functions. This role ensures the timely and consistent delivery of essential services, including recruitment, compensation and benefits administration, performance management, logistics, facilities management, and procurement. By effectively managing these areas, the Director plays a vital role in enabling the MCA’s overall performance. The focus is on securing and motivating talent and providing comprehensive administrative support, all in alignment with MCC guidelines, local labor laws, and employment regulations.

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and oversee administrative and HR policies and procedures; ensure compliance with local Zambian laws and regulations; coordinate with other departments to align administrative strategies with organizational goals.
• Determine the MCA’s HR and Administrative requirements to inform planning, budgeting, and implementation activities; collaborate with other departments to ensure fiscal responsibility and alignment with organizational objectives.
• Lead procurement processes, manage vendor relationships, negotiate contracts, develop the administrative budget, monitor expenditures, and collaborate with finance for control.
• Evaluate MCA-Zambia II’s administrative requirements to implement administrative systems and plans that consider travel, staff training, facilities management, and logistics in line with its objectives.
• Oversee physical assets, implement preventive maintenance programs, and coordinate repairs; manage administrative technology and systems, ensuring data integrity and security.
• Oversee that provision of HR and Administrative support services in recruitment, compensation and benefits administration, performance management, logistics, facilities management, and procurement are responsive to the needs of the MCA teams and able to strengthen their capacity.
• Lead the Administration team in developing and implementing optimal approaches for addressing service needs and remedial measures to address issues and improve the provision of service delivery.
• Advise directors and staff on guidelines, timelines, and procedures regarding providing HR and Administrative services to build an informed basis for interactions and support a smooth and sustained operation.
• Guide managers and staff on the range of HR services on job evaluation, compensation, and performance management practices to strengthen the integrity of human resource standards and consistency of understanding.
• Analyze and improve the delivery of human resources services (recruitment, staffing plan, performance management, and human resources policies) to conform with MCC/MCA human resources standards and strategically improve the MCA’s human capital base.
• Act as the primary contact for administrative matters; develop communication strategies; lead emergency response efforts and communicate with stakeholders during crises.
• Conduct regular evaluations of the administration department’s performance to identify areas for improvement and foster a culture of continuous innovation and efficiency.
• Develop and implement training programs to enhance staff skills and knowledge.
• Lead or participate in special projects like organizational restructuring, process improvement, or strategic initiatives while coordinating with project teams to ensure successful completion.
• Evaluate project outcomes to integrate lessons learned into ongoing practices, enhancing future initiatives.
• Oversee the tasks and daily responsibilities of MCAs HR Specialists and the Office Manager.

Required Competencies

• An Advanced University degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Public Administration, Industrial Psychology, Organization Development, Social Sciences, or a related field is required.
• Minimum of eight (8) years of executive management experience in HR functions, delivering workforce management services, and administering other HR processes and/or building/facilities management, procurement services, and/or travel and logistics functions.
• Eligibility for registration with the Zambia Institute of Human Resources Management is required. MCA will support candidate in securing membership, including covering associated fees.
• Experience managing the strategic approach to human resources at an organization dedicated to managing complex programs or projects.
• Proficiency in management information systems and project management software or applications.
• Ability to work well under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Strong organizational skills with a knack for meticulous planning and execution of complex communication campaigns and schedules.
• Demonstrated ability to manage a team of professionals effectively. Experience managing multi-disciplinary teams is strongly desired.
• Fluent written and verbal communication skills in English. Communication skills in the local language(s) are strongly desired.

Diversity Statement:

“MCA Zambia is committed to equal opportunities for all and does not discriminate on grounds of race, gender, religion, disability or any other status. Women and minority candidates are encouraged to apply”.