Job Description
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
Human Rights Watch (HRW) is seeking a full-time Senior Operations Administrator to be responsible for providing day-to-day operational support in finance, human resources, facilities administration and IT to ensure the smooth and efficient running of HRW’s Nairobi office. The position reports to the Senior Associate Director of Financial Operations, based in New York.
Responsibilities:
Finance
Act as the local Finance representative and assist with the implementation of Finance policies locally;
Manage the bank accounts and cash flows;
Assist the Senior Associate Director in establishing and monitor the office budget;
Record all monthly financial activity into the organization’s financial system;
Process financial transactions including monthly payroll, bill payments, expense reimbursements and disbursements;
Run internal and external financial reports;
Process and track expenditures and revenue transactions;
Work with financial service vendors such as auditors, accountants and governmental tax offices;
Assist the Associate Director in handling issues in relation to HRW’s legal, branch and charitable status;
Assist with payroll for other HRW office locations in East Africa;
Conduct internal audits of the database periodically;
Human Resources
Act as the local HR representative and assist with the implementation of HR policies locally;
Respond to staff on general HR queries;
Maintain a good understanding and working knowledge of compliance with local employment laws;
Assist with the recruitment, onboarding and departure of local staff, fellows, consultants and interns;
Administer local staff contracts, extensions, terminations, exit checklists, and translations;
Assist with updating the local Employee handbook with changes in local laws;
Administer and process local employee payroll, pensions, health benefits and insurance;
Liaise and assist HR staff in headquarters with legal and HR audit issues locally;
Liaise with local government offices, insurance and pension providers, and other HR service providers;
Research and assist with immigration, visas and relocation of employees;
Maintain a unified filing system and attendance management database;
Facilities and Administration
Maintain the smooth and effective functioning of the office;
Handle general office maintenance and facilities issues;
Liaise with suppliers and providers and negotiate commercial and services contracts in a cost-effective manner;
Oversee office moves, configuration and space sourcing;
Assist with travel arrangements and follow-up;
Answer general post, email and telephone enquiries;
Maintain office security and protocols and ensure office safety standards are in compliance with local regulations;
Follow up and liaise with NGO Board to make sure HRW is in compliance;
Assist with administrative operations in East Africa and work with Senior Associate Director to develop strategic plans for Operations in the region;
Assist with training new OAs and mentoring junior OAs;
Lead or coordinate Operations projects, as requested;
Information Technology
Liaise with IT/Helpdesk to troubleshoot computer problems and back up and update network files as necessary; and
Liaise with IT or local phone service and internet provider to troubleshoot phone and internet problems;
Assist the IT team locally with the implementation of new systems;
Other
Travel occasionally, as required; and
Carry out other duties as necessary.
Qualifications:
Education: A bachelor’s degree or equivalent training in finance/bookkeeping, business administration, nonprofit management, human resources, commerce or a related field is required. CPA II or CPA III is a plus.
Experience: A minimum of four to five years of operations or administrative experience, preferably in a global organization, is required. Experience in nonprofit management, human resources, finance, or IT is highly desirable.
Related Skills and Knowledge:
Excellent organizational, administrative, financial, and analytical skills are required.
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English is required, knowledge of French is highly desirable.
Strong computer knowledge including advanced ability with Microsoft Excel and Word is required. Knowledge of Accounting based software such as SAP, Windows Navision, and/or NetSuite is a plus.
Strong interpersonal skills in order to work collaboratively within HRW, as well as with external partners, are required.
Ability to function under pressure, prioritize competing demands with minimal supervision, and handle numerous tasks simultaneously is required.
Proven track record of taking initiative and problem solving is required.
Good judgment, discretion, and the ability to maintain confidentiality are required.
Demonstrated ability to work successfully with a team of talented professionals in multiple global locations is highly desirable.
Experience with finance and human resources databases is highly desirable.
Other: Applicants for this position must possess current Kenyan work authorization valid for a minimum of two years from start date.
Salary and Benefits: HRW seeks exceptional applicants and offers competitive compensation and employer-paid benefits.
