Papua New Guinea University of Natural Resources & Environment (PNGUNRE)

The Papua New Guinea University of Natural Resources & Environment invites applications from suitably qualified and experienced professionals for the position of Human Resources Business Partner (HRBP) within the Registry Division.

PNGUNRE is undergoing a period of institutional transformation aimed at strengthening governance, operational efficiency, compliance, and service delivery. The University is seeking a highly competent and results-oriented HR professional to support strategic organisational reform and institutional strengthening initiatives.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the Registrar, the Human Resources Business Partner (HRBP) will provide strategic and operational leadership in strengthening the University’s human resource management systems, organisational structures, governance frameworks, and administrative processes to support institutional performance excellence.

The successful candidate will work closely with the Vice Chancellor, Senior Management Team, and key stakeholders including the Department of Personnel Management (DPM), to modernise HR systems, improve organisational effectiveness, and support the implementation of the University’s strategic priorities.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be responsible for:

Strategic Human Resource Management

• Leading the review and strengthening of HR management systems and practices.
• Providing strategic HR advisory support to senior management.
• Supporting workforce planning, succession planning, and talent management initiatives.
• Developing strategies to improve organisational culture, accountability, productivity, and staff performance.

Organisational Review & Institutional Strengthening

• Reviewing organisational structures, staffing establishments, and reporting frameworks.
• Supporting implementation of recommendations arising from organisational and DPM reviews.
• Reviewing job descriptions, classifications, and accountability frameworks.
• Identifying operational inefficiencies and recommending improvement measures.
• Assisting with institutional performance reviews and strategic planning processes.

HR Policy, Compliance & Administration

• Reviewing and updating HR policies, procedures, and manuals in line with PNG labour laws and Public Service General Orders.
• Improving employee records management systems and HR documentation standards.
• Strengthening recruitment, onboarding, probation, disciplinary, leave, and separation processes.
• Supporting audit readiness and institutional compliance initiatives.

Performance Management & Capacity Building

• Assisting in the development of integrated performance management systems.
• Developing HR operational templates, tools, and reporting mechanisms.
• Conducting training, mentoring, and capacity-building programs for managers and supervisors.

Strategic Planning & Change Management

• Supporting the implementation of the University’s Strategic Plan and operational plans.
• Facilitating organisational change management initiatives.
• Promoting professionalism, accountability, service excellence, and continuous improvement across the University.

Qualifications & Experience

Essential Requirements

Applicants must possess:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management, Organisational Psychology, Business Management, Public Administration, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of ten (10) years’ senior-level experience in human resources and organisational development.
• Demonstrated experience in organisational review, strategic planning, change management, and institutional strengthening.
• Strong understanding of PNG Public Service systems, General Orders, and employment legislation.
• Experience working with government agencies, universities, statutory bodies, or large organisations.
• Strong report writing, facilitation, stakeholder engagement, and communication skills.
• Competency in the use of computerised systems and applications.

Desirable Qualifications

Preference will be given to applicants with:

• Postgraduate qualifications in HR, Management, Organisational Development, or related fields.
• Experience in higher education institutional reform.
• Experience in salary structure reviews, workforce planning, and performance management systems.
• Training, coaching, or consultancy experience.

Key Competencies

The ideal candidate should demonstrate:

• Strategic thinking and planning capability
• Leadership and organisational influence
• Strong organisational development and change management skills
• Policy development and implementation capability
• High level interpersonal and communication skills
• Integrity, professionalism, and accountability
• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability
• Project management capability
• Ability to work independently and deliver outcomes within agreed timelines

Terms & Conditions

• The appointment is on a fixed-term contract for twelve (12) months.
• Performance will be assessed against agreed deliverables and milestones.
• The successful candidate may be required to conduct workshops, training, and consultations across campuses and departments.
• A competitive remuneration package will be negotiated based on qualifications and experience.

Why Join PNGUNRE?

PNGUNRE offers an exciting opportunity to contribute meaningfully to institutional transformation and organisational strengthening within Papua New Guinea’s higher education sector. The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping systems, structures, and strategies that support long-term institutional excellence.

Application Details

Interested applicants should submit:

• A written application addressing the selection criteria;
• A current curriculum vitae (CV);
• Certified copies of qualifications;
• At least three (3) current referees with contact details.

Applications should be addressed to:

The Registrar
Papua New Guinea University of Natural Resources & Environment
Private Mail Bag,
Kokopo, East New Britain Province, PNG

Or email applications to: [email protected]

Closing Date: 10th of June 2026

PNGUNRE is an equal opportunity employer. Female applicants and suitably qualified Papua New Guineans are strongly encouraged to apply.