Human Resources Manager

Organizational Unit: Administration
Grade: P3
Duty Station: Malmö, Sweden
Duration of Contract: Initial two-year fixed-term appointment. Further renewals may be offered subject to satisfactory performance.

1. ORGANIZATIONAL SETTING

The World Maritime University (WMU) is a postgraduate and research university established in 1983 by the International Maritime Organization, a specialized agency of the United Nations. WMU offers M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs, Postgraduate Diplomas, and Professional Development Courses (PDCs) with the highest standards in maritime and oceans education and training. WMU also has a highly respected research program supported by specialized research groups across the maritime and ocean fields. The Human Resources Manager position is located in the Administration unit at WMU’s headquarters in Malmö, Sweden.

2. MAIN PURPOSE

The World Maritime University is seeking a Human Resources Manager (HRM) to provide professional, operational, and strategic Human Resources Management (HRMgt) services to the staff and management of the University. The HRM ensures professional and efficient HR administration as the basis for operational efficiency and ensures the strategic alignment of human resources policies and services with the operations of the University.

The HRM reports to the Vice-President for Advancement and Operations. The incumbent is expected to work independently on a day-to-day basis. The HRM must ensure that regulations and rules are followed and adequate and relevant procedures are implemented.

3. WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

Internal Contacts:

The incumbent liaises and interacts with the University President, university leadership, and all faculty members on a regular basis, as well as with support staff as required. The HRM supervises a full-time HR Assistant.

External Contacts:

The incumbent liaises with the IMO, the Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Swedish Migration Board, Swedish Tax Office, insurance companies, ERP service providers, among others.

4. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Reporting to the Vice-President for Advancement and Operations, the incumbent will be responsible for the following:

• Provide advice and support to other managers on HR matters such as recruitment, regulations, job descriptions, succession planning, retention, and staff development, including performance management.
• Oversee and implement Staff Regulations and Rules, HR policies, and strategies, and continuously review and propose HR improvements.
• Plan and implement all HR management activities, including onboarding and separation processes.
• Manage recruitment to hire top global talent while ensuring geographic and gender diversity.
• Oversee payroll processes, including deductions, salary increases, allowances, absences, and year-end activities.
• Ensure job grading levels and terminology are correct in vacancy announcements.
• Manage HR ERP systems and assess needs for enhancements/upgrades.
• Participate in HR budget preparation and serve as the budget holder for HR-related costs.
• Act as the focal point for staff health insurance and the United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund (UNJSPF).
• Manage administrative tasks such as personnel files, appointment letters, and contract renewals.
• Oversee performance management, staff development, and counseling as required.
• Provide HR statistics and reports when necessary.
• Contribute to a supportive working environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

5. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS – EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE & LANGUAGE SKILLS

Education:

• Essential: University degree in Human Resources Management, Business/Public Administration, Social Sciences, or related field.

Experience:

• Essential: At least five years of progressive experience in human resources.
• Desirable:
  • Experience working within the UN system and/or governmental, inter-governmental, or non-governmental organizations.
  • Experience working within a university setting.

Language Skills:

• Essential: Excellent command of spoken and written English.
• Desirable: Knowledge of another UN language.

6. KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• Strong commitment to WMU’s mission and core values.
• Excellent communication skills and experience in conflict management.
• Proven managerial skills, including team motivation and leadership.
• Ability to hire and retain talent.
• Effective relationship-building across cultures.
• Discretion, tact, and cultural sensitivity.
• High integrity and commitment to gender-sensitive, non-discriminatory behavior.
• Proficiency in HRMgt professional software, ERP systems, payroll systems, and MS Office.

Application Process

The position offers an attractive salary (P3 Grade of the ICSC salary scale), free of income tax in Sweden, a benefits package, and relocation expenses.

Applicants must submit:

• Personal History Form (available at WMU Careers)
• Letter of interest
• Complete CV
• Contact information of three referees