Job Description
Background: Mercy Corps is a leading global organization powered by the belief that a better world is possible. In disaster, in hardship, in more than 40 countries around the world, we partner to put bold solutions into action — helping people triumph over adversity and build stronger communities from within. Mercy Corps is a recognized global leader in Market Systems Development (MSD), where we apply a systemic, inclusive approach to catalyze sustainable improvements in markets that benefit vulnerable groups, particularly women and youth. Resilience building is an agency priority and involves using a systems-based approach that builds on proven solutions, accesses new ideas and information, and integrates multiple sectors and partnerships to strengthen food and water security, economic opportunities, and climate change adaptation. Southern Africa continues to experience recurrent environmental, economic, and social shocks affecting the well-being of its communities and undermining development investments. Mercy Corps will continue to contribute to the well-being of rural and urban communities by building household capacities and strengthening systems and institutions. Consultant Objectives: Mercy Corps is establishing a new Program Office in Zambia to support its operations and program delivery in the country. A critical success factor for this setup is the recruitment and onboarding of a high-performing team that aligns with the organization’s mission, values, and technical needs.
- To support this, we seek an experienced HR Consultant to lead and execute the talent acquisition strategy and contribute to foundational HR processes for the new office.
The key objectives will be:
- To recruit a competent, diverse, and mission-aligned team for the Zambia Program Office.
- To establish foundational HR systems and processes that support effective workforce management in Zambia.
Consultant Activities: The Consultant will be responsible for: A. Talent Acquisition & Recruitment
- Develop a recruitment strategy and implementation plan for the Zambia Program Office.
- Identify staffing needs (in collaboration with leadership), including job roles, numbers, and timelines.
- Draft and/or review job descriptions and person specifications.
- Design and execute inclusive sourcing and advertising strategies (local, regional, and international as relevant).
- Manage end-to-end recruitment processes:
- Screening and shortlisting candidates
- Designing and coordinating assessments and interview processes
- Facilitating candidate communications and feedback
- Conduct background and reference checks and support offer negotiations.
- Coordinate onboarding and induction for new hires.
B. HR Systems & Processes (Foundational Support)
- Advise on local labor law compliance and HR policies for Zambia.
- Recommend or support the implementation of basic HR systems (e.g., physical and digital employee records on HCM, contract templates, performance management tools).
- Support in developing a local compensation and benefits framework (in coordination with finance/legal).
- Facilitate smooth relocation and onboarding of expatriate and national staff to include work permits and visa’s where applicable.
C. Stakeholder Engagement & Capacity Transfer
- Work closely with Global & Regional People teams and local leadership to ensure alignment with global policies and practices.
- Provide coaching or capacity-building support to local HR/admin staff.
- Develop handover documentation and recommend next steps for ongoing HR support after the consultancy ends.
Consultant Deliverables & Timeframe / Schedule:
- The consultancy will run for 1 month with a possible extension based on progress and needs.
- Recruitment of core program staff, onboarding of staff, set up and filling of HR systems, legal systems compliance and other needs as they arise.
- Level of Effort: Estimated 5 days per week
The Consultant will:
- Prepare a preliminary Inception Report detailing the workplan, timeline, and recruitment strategy which will include roles required and hiring timeline.
- Prepare Finalized Job Descriptions & Recruitment Plan with approval from leadership
- Share Recruitment Pipeline Reports weekly, detailing updates on sourcing, shortlisting, and interviews
- Prepare country onboarding materials; onboarding guide, entry, and exit checklists
- Prepare draft HR Policies and recommendations, including the national Employee Handbook and benefits summary
- Prepare a Final Handover Report detailing lessons learned, status update, and transition notes
**Final deliverables will be agreed upon with the Team Lead The Consultant will report to: Country Human Resource Lead The Consultant will work closely with: Global/Regional & Country HR Focal Points, Country Program Office Leadership. Required Experience & Skills:
- 7-10 years HR experience with a strong background in talent acquisition
- Prior experience supporting organizational setup or expansion in Zambia
- Strong understanding of Zambian labor laws and HR best practices
- Member of the Zambia Institute of Human Resource Management (ZIHRM)
- Excellent communication, stakeholder management and project management skills
Applications will be received until this position is filled.
