Head Human Resources 80% - 100%

Head of Human Resources 80 - 100% - August 2025 (or by agreement)

Zurich International School (ZIS) is a learning community of students, faculty, staff, and parents. At ZIS, educational excellence commits us to Learn, Care, Challenge, Lead. We provide a caring environment for the social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development of our students. We value diversity and plurality of voices and are committed to ensuring our students - and our staff - develop the intellect, skills and character to become caring individuals and adaptable and independent thinkers.

As our current Head of Human Resources (HR) is taking on new responsibilities internally, we are seeking a collaborative and service-oriented leader who thrives in a diverse, intercultural setting. Candidates with a growth mindset, a relational approach, and a commitment to building an inclusive and thriving workplace are encouraged to apply. For more information about our school and our philosophy visit: www.zis.ch

The Position:

The Head of Human Resources oversees all aspects of HR operations, including employee development, compensation, and organizational culture. As a visible and trusted partner, the Head of HR leads with empathy and clarity to ensure a positive employee experience and a healthy, inclusive culture.

They drive the development and execution of people strategies that reflect ZIS’s mission, values, and strategic goals - grounded in service to our intercultural community. The Head of HR works in close partnership with other key leadership roles and plays a central role in shaping our staff culture through meaningful relationships, fair processes, and cultural intelligence.

Key responsibilities include:

• Managing the entire HR lifecycle (excluding payroll) 
• Leading, developing and coaching the HR team (3 employees)
• Acting as an expert HR partner to the Senior Leadership Team 
• Supporting the line with daily challenges and develop suitable and targeted solutions
• Leading various HR projects and actively driving them forward
• Defining and successfully implementing the HR strategy, HR goals and HR annual planning 
• Championing an inclusive, respectful, and values-driven workplace culture that reflects the diversity of our global community
• Serving as a trusted advisor and advocating for employee wellbeing, belonging, and professional growth across all staff groups
• Leading onboarding and professional learning efforts that strengthen intercultural understanding and community connection
• Being an enthusiastic ambassador for ZIS and promoting our multicultural working environment and respectful working atmosphere

Desired qualifications:

• A Federal HR certificate or training in HR management at HF/FH level 
• Several years of experience in HR consulting or leadership, ideally in an international or intercultural context
• Strong communication skills, empathy and natural powers of persuasion
• Sensitivity and cultural awareness in working with diverse constituents
• Good understanding of business management
• Fluent communication in English and German 

The Ideal Candidate:

• Brings a service mindset and a deep commitment to people, relationships, and community
• Is an integrative and solution-oriented leader who fosters trust across all layers of the organization
• Is collaborative, solution-oriented, and adaptable to the dynamic needs of the school
• Has strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities with purpose and poise
• Leads and inspires a diverse team with curiosity, care, and high expectations

Please apply to ZIS directly using our online system through the employment page of our school website https://www.zis.ch/employment