Job Title: HR Manager
Company: Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh
Location: HIAL Campus, Phyang, Leh-Ladakh
Reports to: CEO
Position Type: Full-time
About HIAL:
The Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL) is an alternative university committed to nurturing mindful leaders and changemakers through experiential and contextual learning in the unique setting of Ladakh. We work in the fields of sustainable mountain development, responsible tourism, eco-responsive architecture, high-altitude desert ecology and transformative education.
Position Overview:
HIAL is looking for a dynamic and people-centered HR Manager who can lead and manage the institute's human resource functions in a proactive, empathetic and organized manner. The ideal candidate should be passionate about creating an inclusive, growth-oriented and values-driven work culture while aligning HR practices with the institute's mission.
Key Responsibilities:
1. HR Strategy & Policy Development:
- Design, review and implement HR policies and procedures that reflect the institute's ethos and ensure legal compliance.
- Support long-term HR planning, including workforce planning, succession planning and talent development.
2. Recruitment & Onboarding:
- Lead the end-to-end recruitment process for faculty, administrative and support staff.
- Develop effective strategies for talent acquisition, including campus outreach and collaborations.
- Ensure smooth onboarding and orientation of new employees.
3. Performance Management & Capacity Building:
- Design and implement fair and constructive performance appraisal systems.
- Identify training needs and coordinate internal and external capacity-building initiatives.
- Support managers in developing individual growth plans for their teams.
4. Employee Engagement & Culture:
- Foster a healthy, inclusive and collaborative work environment rooted in mutual respect and collective purpose.
- Plan and execute employee engagement activities, feedback mechanisms and team-building initiatives.
- Serve as a bridge between staff and leadership, ensuring two-way communication.
5. HR Operations & Compliance:
- Maintain accurate and confidential employee records including attendance, leave and service history.
- Manage HR-related documentation, including contracts, policies and compliance with labor laws.
- Oversee payroll coordination, benefits and timely employee reimbursements in collaboration with the Finance team.
6. Conflict Resolution & Welfare:
- Address staff grievances with empathy and fairness, ensuring timely resolution.
- Promote mental health and staff well-being initiatives.
Qualifications & Experience:
- Bachelor's/Master's degree in Human Resource Management, Organizational Development, or related field.
- Minimum 5 years of progressive HR experience; prior experience in an academic or social sector organization is preferred.
- Strong understanding of HR laws, best practices and systems.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work in a multicultural, high-altitude and mission-driven environment.
Desirable Attributes:
- Sensitivity to local culture and a passion for sustainable development in the Himalayan region.
- Adaptability and willingness to live and work in a remote, cold desert setting.
- Experience with HR tech platforms and digital tools.
- Ability to handle both strategic HR planning and hands-on operational tasks.
Remuneration:
Compensation will be commensurate with qualifications and experience, and in alignment with HIAL's salary structure.
To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter explaining your motivation and suitability for this role to
[email protected] with the subject line: Application for HR Manager – HIAL
