Role: Human Resources Communications Director
Interview: April 2025
Duration: 12 Months
Who we are & What do we believe?
Arcadia is a non-profit, international non-governmental organisation with a global presence, comprising 238 members from all seven continents. Founded and headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, Arcadia is dedicated to two core missions:
Our primary mission is to make university-level education accessible to everyone, irrespective of financial, social, geographical, or political barriers. We strive for academic excellence and aim to diminish the limitations to education, ensuring that high-quality education is available to all. Our secondary mission is to foster a global appreciation and support for art. By addressing contemporary global issues through art in our exhibitions, and highlighting significant art events worldwide, we aim to cultivate a deep-seated art consciousness. Our goal is to inspire a greater appreciation for art in the modern world.
At Arcadia, our academic team consists of over 70 international researchers who contribute to Higher Education-level academic articles across a myriad of disciplines. Our commitment to sharing knowledge without any charges or subscriptions ensures that everyone, everywhere, can benefit from our collective expertise. We believe in the transformative power of education and art to create a better, more enlightened world, a modern utopia.
Wherever you are, whoever you are!
We believe that the internet is one of the greatest resources humanity has achieved, giving us the opportunity to exceed our physical boundaries. Arcadia welcomes all; regardless of gender, ethnicity, and age. We embrace diversity and as an international NGO with more than 79 different nationalities, our aim is to support diversity within our teams and allow people all around the world to have the opportunity to join and contribute and grow in their fields of interest.
About the Position
Arcadia is seeking a dynamic and highly skilled Human Resources Communications Director to join our HR team and support our global mission. This pivotal role offers the opportunity to oversee a range of essential communication functions within our Human Resources department, contributing to both internal and external communications that are critical to the success of the organisation. As the HRCD, you will play a key role in evaluating and selecting the most effective communication channels to ensure efficient and clear communication across various HR functions. You will strategically manage communication managers (2) within the internal and external departments, ensuring seamless coordination between HR teams and other organisational units. As part of your responsibilities, you will be responsible for managers of two sub-departments: Internal Communications, which focuses on organisation and member-based communications, and External Communications, partnering with the recruitment department to manage candidate relations. Additionally, you will oversee the comprehensive onboarding process for new team members, conducting virtual meetings and providing essential guidance to help them integrate smoothly into the organisation. In close collaboration with the Chief Human Resources Officer, you will assist in the development and updating of guides and resources, creating new documents and materials as required. You will also maintain detailed, personalised records of team members' activities, including vacation requests, absences, training attendance, and contract terminations, while ensuring accurate tracking of all team activities.
This position offers an unparalleled opportunity to shape the communication and HR strategy of an international non governmental organisation that is at the forefront of academia and art. This role requires exceptional organisational, strategic planning, and communication skills to foster a supportive and well-coordinated team environment. You will play a pivotal role in enhancing Arcadia’s strategic communication and ensuring its HR process continues to set benchmarks for quality and impact in the field.
Key Responsibilities:
As the HRCD, you will have a vital role in overseeing HR communication processes, ensuring clear and effective messaging across all levels of the organisation. Your key responsibilities will include:
Internal and External Communication Management:
Evaluate, select, and manage communication channels to ensure seamless and efficient information flow across the organisation. Oversee internal communications within the HR department and ensure the distribution of timely, accurate updates to all team members. You will also manage external communications, partnering with the recruitment team to handle candidate interactions and ensure consistent messaging.
Team Activity Tracking and Reporting:
Maintain personalised records of team members' activities, including vacation requests, absences, training attendance, and contract terminations. You will be responsible for ensuring that these records are accurate, up-to-date, and easily accessible. Additionally, you will provide regular reports to senior management, highlighting key trends and providing recommendations for improvement.
Skills and Competencies Required:
Communication Expertise:
Proven experience in managing communications within HR or similar departments, with a strong understanding of both internal and external communication strategies. You should possess exceptional written and verbal communication skills and be able to convey complex information in a clear and accessible manner.
Organisational Skills:
Exceptional organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks, maintain detailed records, and ensure deadlines are consistently met. Attention to detail and the ability to track key data points related to team activities and HR functions will be crucial to success in this role.
HR Systems and Documentation:
Familiarity with HR software, systems, and processes, particularly in relation to documentation and employee record-keeping. A keen understanding of HR policies and an ability to ensure compliance across all communication efforts.
Qualifications:
A master’s degree in Human Resources, Communications, Public Relations or a related field is required.
A minimum of 5 years’ experience in human resources communications, with a proven track record of managing both internal and external communication functions. Strong expertise in communication strategy development and implementation within HR departments, particularly in global or non-profit settings, is preferred.
In-depth knowledge of human resources functions, including recruiting, hiring, employee relations, culture-building, and overall HR management. A background in HR team management is essential, as well as experience in supporting or leading HR operations within diverse teams.
Extensive experience in the creation, review, and distribution of HR documentation, guides, and resources. Expertise in maintaining accurate and up-to-date records, ensuring that all communication materials align with organisational policies, regulatory standards, and industry best practices.
Excellent conflict resolution abilities, with the capacity to address challenges that may arise during the communication process or within team dynamics. Strong problem-solving skills to ensure smooth communication and effective solutions.
A demonstrated sensitivity to cultural, gender-based, religious, racial, national, and age differences.
The highest standards of integrity and discretion, with the ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information in accordance with ethical guidelines. Trustworthiness in managing confidential HR-related data is paramount.
Comfortable with a part-time commitment (8–10 hours per week, 20%), with the flexibility to choose working hours and work remotely.
Fluency (C1) within English, French and German are advantageous but not required.
A motivational and empathetic leadership style, with a commitment to fostering inclusivity, integrity, and excellence. Strong interpersonal skills to inspire trust and credibility within the organization.
What We Offer:
An online certificate with an international serial number after completing one year at Arcadia.
Access to Arcadia's Executive Education Certificate Program, which includes six courses totaling 64 hours, specifically tailored for your role, with international certification.
Access to a global network of seasoned professionals and consultants, offering tailored support to help you grow, excel, and advance in your area of expertise.
We promise you a green world, a new feature. Join a fully net-zero carbon emission organisation committed to supporting a greener world.
Flexible working hours based on project deadlines. You must be available to work 8-10 hours per week, with the flexibility to choose your working hours.
The chance to be part of our volunteer organisation, contributing to Arcadia's humanitarian mission to provide education for all.
Possibility of contract renewal with advancement at your field at the end of your 1 year according to evaluation of the Arcadia Board.
The opportunity to work remotely, providing flexibility and the ability to balance your work with other commitments.
The chance to work with a diverse team of individuals from around the world, supporting the organisation's commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
Being credited with your name, picture and also being credited in the 'Team' section.
Training sessions from our valuable and well-experienced team members.
Being part of our volunteer-based organisation, and the satisfaction of contributing and doing good to the world.
Arcadia is an equal opportunity provider. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, familial status and other legally protected characteristics.
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