Head, Talent Acquisition

Overview:

The Head of Talent Acquisition is a pivotal leadership role responsible for driving recruitment strategies, ensuring workforce stability, and promoting UCSI Schools’ organisational culture. This position demands a blend of strategic vision and operational excellence to attract, hire, and retain top talent while ensuring compliance with policies and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

Talent Acquisition & Workforce Planning:

1. Develop and implement strategic recruitment plans, ensuring alignment with UCSI Schools’ workforce needs and financial planning.
2. Ensure positions are filled promptly to maintain seamless operations.
3. Oversee the full recruitment lifecycle, from job postings and resume screening to interviews and onboarding.
4. Collaborate with department heads on manpower planning, budget considerations, and job description development.
5. Utilise multiple recruitment channels (social media, job boards, networking events) to attract top talent.
6. Lead and mentor the recruitment team, fostering a productive and engaging work environment.
7. Maintain and update recruitment trackers and generate reports on hiring activities.
8. Develop and implement effective candidate assessment tools and structured interview processes.
9. Oversee the Teachers Trainee Programme (TTP) and the future Management Trainee Programme.

Onboarding & Documentation:

1. Design and execute a comprehensive onboarding programme for new hires to ensure smooth integration.
2. Manage onboarding processes, including setting up staff email accounts, assisting with bank accounts, and handling HR documentation.
3. Provide tailored support for expatriate staff, including pre-departure briefings, airport pick-ups, housing arrangements, and local assistance.
4. Establish and oversee mentorship programmes to enhance employee engagement and retention.
5. Maintain up-to-date personnel records, including employment details, permits, and performance appraisals.
6. Ensure employee information is accurately recorded across all relevant systems (IIS, Employment Master, website).

MOE/Employment Pass/Teaching Permits:

1. Oversee the process of securing employment passes, dependent passes, and teaching permits for expatriates.
2. Liaise with the Ministry of Education (MOE) to ensure timely submission and approval of required permits.
3. Ensure compliance with all government regulations and legal requirements related to employment.

Compliance & Policy Governance:

1. Ensure adherence to local labour laws and regulatory requirements.
2. Support the development, implementation, and review of HR policies to align with best practices and legal mandates.
3. Conduct periodic audits of HR processes to maintain compliance and drive improvements.

Learning & Development:

1. Identify training needs and develop programmes to bridge skill gaps.
2. Design and implement training workshops, e-learning modules, and other professional development initiatives.
3. Promote a culture of continuous learning and upskilling within the organisation.
4. Manage the Learning & Development budget and evaluate the effectiveness of training programmes.

Coordination & Collaboration:

1. Participate in the HR Steering Committee, working closely with the VP, HR & Admin to align priorities and drive key HR initiatives.
2. Lead cross-divisional project teams for major HR initiatives such as performance reviews and employee development programmes.

Qualifications & Requirements:

1. Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management (HRM) or a related field.
2. Minimum 15 years of work experience, with at least 5 years in a senior HR/Operations role.
3. Strong expertise in talent acquisition, particularly in expatriate recruitment and onboarding.
4. In-depth knowledge of HR compliance and local labour laws, especially regarding expatriate employment.
5. Proven ability to manage HR compliance and policy implementation.

Key Competencies:

1. Leadership & Management: Ability to lead and inspire HR and administrative teams.
2. Strategic Thinking & Decision-Making: Align HR strategies with the organisation's long-term goals.
3. Problem-Solving & Conflict Resolution: Expertise in handling employee relations and workplace challenges.
4. Expatriate Support & Transition Expertise: Skilled in facilitating expatriate hires' smooth transition to the local work environment.
5. Attention to Detail & Accuracy: Strong documentation and HR process management skills.
6. Adaptability & Teamwork: Capable of working independently and collaboratively across various departments.