The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), the world’s largest humanitarian organization and a 2020 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, is currently inviting applications for the position of HR Assistant – Talent Management (G5) based in Antananarivo, Madagascar. This opportunity is ideal for experienced human resources professionals who are passionate about contributing to global humanitarian efforts while building a meaningful and impactful career within the UN system.
In this article, we explore the role, responsibilities, qualifications, and benefits of joining WFP as an HR Assistant – Talent Management, and why this position represents an excellent professional opportunity.
About the World Food Programme (WFP)
The World Food Programme plays a critical role in saving lives during emergencies and using food assistance to promote peace, stability, and prosperity for communities recovering from conflict, disasters, and climate-related shocks. Operating in some of the most challenging environments worldwide, WFP places people at the center of its mission—both those it serves and the diverse workforce that drives its operations.
WFP is widely recognized for fostering a diverse, inclusive, and multicultural work environment, guided by its core values of Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion. Employees are selected on merit and supported through continuous learning, development programs, and global mobility opportunities.
Position Overview
- Job Title: HR Assistant – Talent Management
- Contract Type / Grade: Fixed-Term, G5
- Duration: One year, renewable subject to satisfactory performance
- Duty Station: Antananarivo, Madagascar
- Vacancy Number: One position
- Application Deadline: 22 January 2026 (23:59 GMT+03:00, East Africa Time)
This role is located in the Country Office in Antananarivo and supports the effective implementation of WFP’s human resources policies and procedures. At the G5 level, the HR Assistant is expected to independently handle a wide range of HR activities, interpret guidelines, recommend appropriate actions, and provide guidance to colleagues.
Organizational Context
Within the Country Office, the HR Assistant – Talent Management contributes to building a strong, skilled, and motivated workforce. The position plays a vital role in ensuring HR services are client-focused, efficient, and aligned with WFP’s strategic objectives. The role requires both technical HR expertise and the ability to collaborate with multiple internal stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
The HR Assistant – Talent Management performs a broad range of HR-related duties, including but not limited to:
- Providing first-line support on general HR queries and ensuring timely follow-up actions.
- Delivering consistent and high-quality HR services to staff and managers.
- Guiding and mentoring junior or less-experienced staff through on-the-job training.
- Coordinating with internal units such as payroll and contracts to ensure smooth HR processes.
- Extracting, compiling, and analyzing HR data related to recruitment, contracts, performance, and training.
- Supporting onboarding processes for new staff in compliance with WFP procedures.
- Maintaining confidential personnel records, HR databases, and archives accurately.
- Drafting HR documentation such as employment contracts, transfer letters, and training-related documents.
- Using HR management systems to monitor deadlines (e.g., contract expirations and performance evaluations).
- Supporting staff deployment and administrative actions, especially in emergency or crisis situations.
Through these responsibilities, the HR Assistant ensures that WFP can respond effectively and rapidly to humanitarian needs.
Required Skills and Competencies
To succeed in this role, candidates should demonstrate:
- Strong analytical and data manipulation skills.
- Familiarity with data analysis and visualization tools.
- A high level of digital literacy and interest in new HR technologies.
- Innovative and solution-oriented thinking.
- Solid knowledge of HR principles, policies, and best practices.
- Excellent attention to detail and communication skills.
- Confidence in preparing presentations and offering HR-related recommendations.
- A forward-looking mindset, particularly in talent development and succession planning.
Qualifications and Experience
Education:
- Completion of secondary school education is required.
- A post-secondary certificate in human resources or a related field is desirable.
Experience:
- At least five years of relevant professional experience in human resources.
Professional Knowledge:
Candidates should have experience in:
- Implementing HR policies and procedures.
- Supporting recruitment and selection processes.
- Payroll administration and contract management.
- Providing onboarding briefings for new staff.
- Advising and supporting colleagues in HR-related matters.
Languages:
- Fluency (oral and written) in French, English, and Malagasy is required.
Why Join WFP?
Joining WFP means becoming part of a globally respected organization that values its people and invests in their growth. Benefits include:
- Working for a Nobel Peace Prize–winning organization with a strong humanitarian mandate.
- A highly inclusive and diverse work environment.
- Access to continuous learning, training, mentoring, and career development opportunities.
- Exposure to international HR practices within the UN system.
- An attractive compensation package in line with UN standards.
- The chance to make a real difference in the lives of millions of people worldwide.
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Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
WFP is firmly committed to equal employment opportunity and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, disability, or other personal characteristics. Reasonable accommodations are available throughout the recruitment process for candidates with disabilities.
Important Application Notes
- Applications must be submitted online only through WFP’s official recruitment system.
- Only a CV and cover letter are required at the initial stage.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- WFP does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.
Final Thoughts
The HR Assistant – Talent Management (G5) position at WFP in Antananarivo offers a unique opportunity to combine professional HR expertise with meaningful humanitarian impact. For experienced HR professionals seeking stability, growth, and purpose within an international organization, this role represents an excellent career step.
