HR Manager

Position: HR Manager

Purpose of the role

Based in Nepal, this role plays a vital part in creating a safe, supportive and high-performing workplace where people can thrive. You will lead on Human Resources and Health & Safety, working closely with managers to strengthen recruitment, retention and people management practices across the country programme.

As a trusted partner to the Country Representative, and working in close collaboration with the Senior HR Business Partner in the UK, you will help translate organisational people strategies into practical, locally grounded solutions. From ensuring full compliance with Nepal’s Labour Code and statutory requirements, to supporting managers through recruitment, employee relations and wellbeing initiatives, you will be at the heart of building a positive and inclusive working culture.

This role offers a unique opportunity to shape how people are supported, developed and protected within an INGO setting, balancing operational HR delivery with a strong commitment to human rights, equity and effective ways of working. Through your expertise, you will help ensure that ZSL Nepal remains a responsible employer and a place where staff feel valued, supported and empowered to do their best work.

Key responsibilities: 

• Liaise effectively with the Department of Labour to ensure compliance with the Labour Code and all applicable statutory requirements, including human rights obligations, and advise staff on labour legislation and employment standards.
• Manage and execute the full recruitment cycle from vacancy announcement through job offer and induction for resourcing needs within the scope of the local HR role, in close coordination with the Country Representative, and the Senior HR Business Partner.
• Support the Country Representative with employee relations cases, including grievances and disciplinary.
• Support the Country Representative and Senior HR Business Partner to implement people initiatives and projects including developing pay structures, wellbeing initiatives and effective ways of working.
• Oversee contract and benefits administration, including the issuance, renewal, and amendment of contracts for staff, consultants, interns and other personnel.
• Plan and coordinate staff orientation including partners, training sessions, workshops, and related activities as required and aligned with organizational needs.

About You

• Minimum of five years of progressive experience in HR at Officer level or above within the INGO sector.
• Master’s degree in business management, HR Management, or a related field, or equivalent professional qualifications; equivalent knowledge and skills may also be demonstrated through relevant practical experience.
• Proven experience in recruitment, staff management, handling grievances, and managing disciplinary cases.
• Hands-on experience in implementing the Nepal Labour Act, Social Security Fund (SSF) and ensuring compliance with employment contracts.
• Familiarity with Nepal Labour Act, Human Rights Act, GESI principles, and other relevant legislation governing HR management.
• Ability to maintain and use HR data and metrics to inform strategic decision-making

ZSL is committed to conservation led by those who know their environments best. We work hand in hand with local communities and conservationists around the world, united in our mission to protect wildlife and power sustainable solutions globally.

We encourage applications from members of the communities we work with, and from those who share our passion for conservation and collaboration. At ZSL, we value respect, local knowledge, and shared purpose, together, we can make a real difference for wildlife, people and planet.

About Us

We’re ZSL, an international conservation charity. Through our unrivalled animal experts in our two zoos (London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo), the work of our pioneering scientists, our dedicated conservationists, our purpose is to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wild animals going extinct. Our vision is a world where wildlife thrives and we’re working every day to achieve this. From investigating the health threats facing animals, to helping people and wildlife live alongside each other, we are committed to bringing wildlife back from the brink of extinction.

What do we offer?

At ZSL, we are proud of our approach to employee benefits. Our benefits include:

• Our vision and purpose – you’ll work alongside colleagues who are passionate about science-led conservation, knowing that you will help us to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wildlife going extinct
• Holidays – 19 days paid annual leave during each 12-month period worked, plus national and public holidays as per the Labor Act of Nepal.
• Wellbeing – Accidental insurance for staff and medical insurance for staff (including family members)
• Maternity leave and paternity leave available as per Labor act of Nepal.

NB: We reserve the right to close our advertisement early or extend the advertising date until a suitable candidate has been found.

Advertising End Date: 22 Jan 2026