Chief Human Resources Officer, The Inter-Community School Zurich, Switzerland

This school is based in Zurich, Switzerland and is looking for a Chief Human Resources Officer.

The Inter-Community School Zurich (ICS), the oldest international school in the Greater Zurich Area, seeks a dynamic and experienced Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO). Located in the picturesque village of Zumikon near Zurich, ICS offers a supportive learning environment where all community members are challenged to achieve their potential and pursue their passions.

Position Summary: The CHRO is responsible for designing and implementing human resource strategies that align with the school’s goals. This role involves overseeing all HR functions, managing school culture, and providing high-level insight into workplace needs. As a key member of the G3 leadership team, the CHRO will play a central role in the strategic success of the school.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic HR Leadership:
  • Predict outcomes based on knowledge of organizational dynamics.
  • Diagnose problems within the social system of the school.
  • Prescribe actions to unlock and create value through human capital.
• HR Strategy and Policy:
  • Define and monitor HR strategy aligned with school goals.
  • Finalize and maintain the HR Policy Suite to achieve best practices.
  • Develop and implement HR policies for all areas of HR operations.
• Employee Development:
  • Formulate career development plans and advance professional development programs.
  • Lead the employee lifecycle, including recruitment, onboarding, development, and offboarding.
  • Evaluate training and development programs for effectiveness.
• Inclusion and Compliance:
  • Promote inclusion and reinforce the school’s position as an equal-opportunity employer.
  • Ensure compliance with employment laws and stay updated on new developments.
• Collaboration and Culture:
  • Act as an active member of the School Executive, advising on culture, people development, and performance management.
  • Coordinate between staff and management to resolve workplace conflicts.
  • Foster a collaborative and supportive environment within the school.

Requirements:

• Extensive experience as a CHRO or in a similar executive role.
• Master’s degree in Human Resources, Organizational Psychology, or related field, ideally in an educational setting.
• Hands-on experience with HR software and a strong understanding of HR analytics.
• Excellent understanding of labor legislation, particularly Swiss employment law.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and adaptability in a dynamic educational environment.

Key Skills:

• Strategic thinking and big-picture vision.
• Strong people management and mediation skills.
• High emotional intelligence and excellent communication.
• Proficient in HR analytics and data-driven decision-making.
• Service-focused, mission-driven, and collaborative mindset.
• Understanding of business and financial acumen.

Terms and Conditions: The salary and benefits package will be commensurate with the qualifications and experience of the successful candidate, reflecting the importance of this key position.

Application Instructions: Interested candidates should apply via our website with a full letter of application addressed to Ms. Lucy M. Gowdie, Head of School, a statement of personal educational philosophy, a detailed resume/curriculum vitae, and a list of three referees (name & email address). The Head of School reserves the right to apply directly to the writers of open testimonials for confidential statements.