Position Overview:

The HR and Operations Manager will lead human resources and operations to ensure smooth, compliant and efficient support for the SEP II Programme. They will oversee recruitment, resource management and staff welfare, logistics, procurement, inventory, and office management while ensuring all functions are aligned with Chemonics UK policies and FCDO regulations.

The HR and Operations Manager will adhere to and act in accordance with Chemonics’ professional code of ethics, ‘Living Our Values’, and will make the principles of the code a part of Chemonics’ culture and operating procedures. They will remain committed to maintaining the highest standards of confidentiality in all aspects, including safeguarding sensitive information related to recruitment, personnel, programme operations, and organisational strategy. Any data shared or discussed will be handled with discretion and in accordance with relevant data protection policies and ethical guidelines.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities (Essential Functions):

Human Resources Management

Lead recruitment, onboarding and performance evaluations.
Prepare all long-term and short-term employment agreements and amendments.
Manage contracts, benefits, leaves, payroll and staff grievances.
Review staff’s monthly timesheets for accuracy and appropriate approvals, before transmission onto the project finance team.
Ensure legal compliance with Syrian labour law and FCDO regulations.
Maintain up to date HR records and ensure GDPR/data protection compliance.
Support line managers in effectively managing employee performance on an ongoing basis, including setting clear objectives, providing regular feedback, addressing performance challenges and promoting staff development in alignment with organisational and programme goals.
Ensure Employee Policy Manual is maintained and shared with all staff and policies and procedures are enforced as per the manual.
Develop and implement HR strategies aligned with Chemonics goals and values.
Foster a culture of inclusion, accountability and continuous learning.
Strategic Operations Management

Support the Deputy Team Lead Operations in the development and implementation of business operations strategies, plans and procedures.
Oversee day to day office operations including IT, facilities, logistics, procurement and office administration and security.
Ensure smooth coordination between operations, finance and technical teams.
Troubleshoot operational issues and implement process improvements.
Ensure all operational functions are established and maintained in accordance with Chemonics and FCDO policies and procedures.
Liaise with Finance department to ensure timely processing of utility bills, goods and services payments, VAT claims etc. for procured goods & services.
Oversee asset management and inventory control to safeguard programme and company inventory.
Foster innovation and streamline processes to enhance operational efficiency and continuously improve workflows to ensure optimal use of resources and value for money.
Oversee Chemonics’ local entity registration in collaboration with local lawyers.
Procurement and Logistics

Oversee the full procurement lifecycle including: the design of Terms of Reference (TORs), Request for Quotations (RFQs), Request for Proposals (RFPs) and Invitation to Tender (ITTs); advertisement; evaluation and selection; due diligence and vetting; and contract signing and provide support to the senior operation officer on leading this when needed.
Oversee the solicitation of quotations from suppliers and negotiate to maximise value for money.
Oversee procurement documentation and payments.
Ensure compliance with Chemonics and FCDO procurement policies.
Documentation, Due Diligence and Compliance

Oversee a filing system in electronic and hard copy format for technical, logistics/procurement and administrative documents. Work with project and Head Office Programme Management Unit staff to ensure electronic filing system is in proper order and fully populated for efficient administration of the project.
Work with project technical staff and grants team as necessary to provide compliance and due diligence support and guidance to ensure operations are compliant and follow best practice.
Establish internal controls to ensure that the compliance tools and adherence throughout the project are effective and efficient in preventing, detecting, identifying, and correcting noncompliance with applicable rules and regulations.
Build capacity of staff and counterparts (subcontractors, vendors, etc.) through regular trainings on processes, regulations, organizational policies, code of conduct, and compliance matters.
Team Management and Coordination

Provide strong leadership and line management (on-the-job mentoring, coaching, capacity development, performance management and professional development) to the Senior Operations Officer and Operations and IT Officer.
Collaborate closely with:
Head Office to ensure HR and operational compliance and documentation.
Senior Finance Manager on employee-related financial matters.
Performs other duties and responsibilities as required.

Qualifications & Experience:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty and responsibility satisfactorily. The qualifications listed below are representative of the required knowledge, skills, and/or abilities needed to perform the principal duties.

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, International Development, or related field.
CIPD or equivalent HR qualification preferred.
Minimum 5 years in HR and operations management, preferably in international development or humanitarian settings.
Experience managing multi-country HR operations and working with diverse teams.
Experience in international development or donor-funded programmes.
Strong understanding of the context, conflict and security situation in Syria, previous experience in Syria is strongly preferred.
Proven track record in systems improvement.
Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
Understanding of FCDO regulations and guidelines preferred.
Excellent organisational and problem-solving abilities.
Proficiency in HRIS, payroll systems, and Microsoft Office.
High level of discretion and commitment to confidentiality and equity.
Fluency in Arabic, with strong speaking and writing skills in English.
Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and persuasively both orally and in writing, and deliver presentations, training, and facilitate meetings effectively.
Has the right to work in Syria and based or willing to be based in Damascus,

Please send your resume/CV